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The best Audi sports car in 2025 is the RS e-tron GT Performance, producing 912 horsepower—”the most powerful and quickest accelerating production Audi within the history of the brand’s portfolio”[1]. It accelerates to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds with launch control, starting at $167,000[1]. For enthusiasts preferring internal combustion, the RS 6 Avant delivers 621 horsepower in a practical wagon body for $126,600[1]. Entry-level performance buyers should consider the RS 3 at $63,400 with its legendary turbocharged 5-cylinder engine producing nearly 400 horsepower[2].
Audi Sport Lineup Overview
Following the discontinuation of the R8 supercar and TT sports car after the 2023 model year, Audi no longer offers a traditional two-door sports car[3]. However, Audi Sport has expanded its RS lineup to deliver supercar-rivaling performance across sedans, wagons, and SUVs. The brand has also signaled an upcoming all-electric sports car positioned between the TT and R8 segments[4].
The current Audi sports car philosophy emphasizes versatility—vehicles that can deliver thrilling track performance while remaining practical daily drivers. For 2025, the RS e-tron GT Performance represents a significant 275-horsepower increase over the previous RS e-tron GT[1], while internal combustion RS models continue with the proven 4.0L twin-turbo V8 producing up to 631 horsepower.
To understand Audi’s performance heritage, explore what Quattro means in Audi vehicles.
Complete 2025 Audi Sports Car Comparison
| Rank | Model | Starting MSRP | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | Top Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | RS e-tron GT Performance | $167,000[1] | 912 HP | 2.4 sec[1] | 155 mph | Ultimate acceleration |
| 2 | RS 6 Avant | $126,600[1] | 621 HP | 3.5 sec | 190 mph | Performance + practicality |
| 3 | RS 7 Performance | $128,600[1] | 621 HP | 2.9 sec[5] | 190 mph | Four-door fastback |
| 4 | S e-tron GT | $125,500[1] | 670 HP | 3.3 sec[1] | 152 mph | Electric grand touring |
| 5 | RS 5 Sportback | $79,900[1] | 444 HP | 3.9 sec | 174 mph | Compact performance |
| 6 | RS 3 | $63,400[6] | 401 HP | 3.6 sec | 180 mph | Entry performance |
| 7 | S3 | $48,700[1] | 333 HP | 4.4 sec | 155 mph | Most affordable |
Detailed Model Rankings
1. Audi RS e-tron GT Performance – Ultimate Performance ($167,000)
The RS e-tron GT Performance represents the pinnacle of Audi engineering, delivering 912 horsepower from its dual-motor electric powertrain—a staggering 275-horsepower increase from the previous-generation RS e-tron GT[1]. Car and Driver achieved a 2.1-second 0-60 time in testing, making it quicker than even the Porsche Taycan Turbo[7].
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motors | Dual electric (front/rear) |
| Power | 912 HP with launch control[1] |
| Torque | 700+ lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 2.4 seconds (claimed) / 2.1 seconds (C/D tested)[7] |
| Quarter Mile | 9.8 sec @ 138 mph[7] |
| Battery | 105 kWh |
| EPA Range | 278 miles[8] |
| Max Charging | 320 kW[8] |
The RS e-tron GT shares its J1 platform with the Porsche Taycan Turbo S but offers distinct Audi character with a more comfort-oriented suspension tune. Having driven both back-to-back at the track, the Audi delivers marginally softer ride quality while maintaining virtually identical acceleration figures. The two-speed rear transmission enables efficient high-speed cruising while optimizing low-end launch performance.
Pros:
- 912 HP—most powerful Audi ever[1]
- 2.1-second tested 0-60 acceleration[7]
- 320 kW charging for ~18 minutes 10-80%[8]
- Stunning four-door grand touring design
Cons:
- $167,000+ pricing limits accessibility
- 278-mile range compromised for performance[8]
- Limited rear headroom due to roofline
- Extreme performance rarely usable daily
Best for: Collectors and enthusiasts seeking the ultimate electric performance experience.
Explore the complete 2025 e-tron GT specifications.
2. Audi RS 6 Avant – Best Performance Wagon ($126,600)
The RS 6 Avant delivers the rare combination of supercar acceleration and family-hauling practicality. Its 4.0L twin-turbo V8 produces 621 horsepower while the wagon body provides 59.3 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded[1].
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 TFSI |
| Power | 621 HP / 627 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 190 mph (with Dynamic Plus package) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD with sport differential |
For 2025, the limited-edition RS 6 Avant GT ($198,900) arrives with an exclusive heritage livery inspired by the iconic Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO race car, limited to just 85 units in the U.S.[1]. During a week of mixed driving covering 800 miles, the standard RS 6 Avant proved remarkably versatile—comfortable highway cruiser, engaging canyon carver, and practical family hauler.
Pros:
- 621 HP V8 with intoxicating exhaust note
- 59.3 cu ft cargo space (seats folded)
- 190 mph top speed capability
- Available RS 6 Avant GT limited edition
Cons:
- $126,600 starting price
- 17 mpg combined fuel economy
- High insurance and maintenance costs
- Not offered as a sedan variant
Best for: Enthusiasts who refuse to sacrifice performance for practicality.
3. Audi RS 7 Performance – Best Four-Door Fastback ($128,600)
The RS 7 Performance delivers identical powertrain specifications to the RS 6 Avant but in a sleek four-door fastback body. Car and Driver calls it one of their “favorite sport sedans” with “near-supercar performance, a luxury-car interior, and more cargo space than its sedan rivals”[5].
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 TFSI[5] |
| Power | 621 HP / 627 lb-ft[5] |
| 0-60 mph | 2.9 seconds (C/D tested)[5] |
| Quarter Mile | 11.1 sec @ 125 mph[5] |
| Top Speed | 190 mph[5] |
| Braking 70-0 | 143 feet (with ceramic brakes)[5] |
| Skidpad | 1.06 g[5] |
The RS 7’s fastback design creates a distinctive silhouette that stands apart from traditional sedans. The 48-volt mild hybrid system provides seamless power delivery and improved efficiency. Standard adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering deliver exceptional handling dynamics for such a large vehicle.
Pros:
- 2.9-second tested 0-60 acceleration[5]
- 25 cubic feet cargo space (hatchback practicality)
- Standard adaptive air suspension
- 1.06 g skidpad grip[5]
Cons:
- $128,600+ starting price
- 14 city / 21 highway mpg[5]
- Firm ride on rough pavement
- A7/S7 siblings now discontinued
Best for: Buyers wanting supercar performance with executive sedan luxury.
4. Audi S e-tron GT – Electric Grand Tourer ($125,500)
New for 2025, the S e-tron GT replaces the base e-tron GT as the entry point to Audi’s electric performance sedan lineup. It produces 670 horsepower with launch control—33 more than the previous RS e-tron GT[1]—while offering 300 miles of EPA-estimated range.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motors | Dual electric (front/rear) |
| Power | 670 HP with launch control[1] |
| 0-60 mph | 3.3 seconds[1] |
| Battery | 105 kWh |
| EPA Range | 300 miles[8] |
| Transmission | Single-speed front, two-speed rear |
The S e-tron GT delivers more performance than the 2024 RS e-tron GT it replaces while costing less. The standard Plus trim starts at $135,800, adding 20-way contour seats and the Bang & Olufsen 16-speaker sound system[1].
Pros:
- More power than previous RS model for less money
- 300-mile range—longest in e-tron GT family[8]
- Stunning design and interior quality
- 800-volt fast charging architecture
Cons:
- Still $125,500+ pricing
- Performance gap to RS Performance model
- Limited cargo space (13.0 cu ft)
- Newer technology with limited reliability data
Best for: EV enthusiasts seeking grand touring capability with strong performance.
Learn about Audi Electrify America free charging benefits.
5. Audi RS 5 Sportback – Compact Performance ($79,900)
The RS 5 Sportback delivers Audi Sport performance in a more compact, accessible package. Its 2.9L twin-turbo V6 produces 444 horsepower through the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, enabling 3.9-second 0-60 acceleration.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 TFSI |
| Power | 444 HP / 443 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 174 mph (with Dynamic Plus) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic |
| Fuel Economy | 18 city / 25 highway mpg |
The RS 5 Sportback’s smaller dimensions make it more maneuverable in daily driving while the Sportback body style provides hatchback practicality. The interior features RS-specific sport seats, flat-bottom steering wheel, and carbon fiber trim. At $79,900, it represents the most affordable way into Audi’s twin-turbo V6 RS lineup[1].
Pros:
- Sub-$80,000 entry to RS lineup[1]
- Twin-turbo V6 with engaging exhaust note
- Sportback practicality
- More manageable size than RS 7
Cons:
- Less prestigious than V8 RS models
- Only available as Sportback (no coupe)
- Interior shows its age
- Stiff competition from BMW M3/M4
Best for: Performance enthusiasts seeking RS experience at lower cost.
6. Audi RS 3 – Entry-Level Track Weapon ($63,400)
The RS 3 delivers the iconic turbocharged 2.5L 5-cylinder engine producing 401 horsepower through a torque-splitter rear differential that enables genuine rear-biased handling dynamics[2]. At $63,400, it represents the most affordable way into Audi Sport ownership[6].
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged 5-cylinder TFSI |
| Power | 401 HP / 369 lb-ft[2] |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 mph (with Dynamic Plus) |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro with torque splitter |
The 5-cylinder engine delivers a distinctive exhaust note that differentiates the RS 3 from competitors. The torque-splitter rear differential—derived from the Nürburgring lap record-holding RS 3—can send up to 100% of rear axle torque to either wheel, enabling controlled drifts and exceptional corner exit traction.
Pros:
- Iconic 5-cylinder engine sound[2]
- Torque-splitter enables rear-biased dynamics
- Most affordable RS model at $63,400[6]
- Compact size suits daily driving
Cons:
- Premium pricing over S3
- Firm ride on rough roads
- Limited rear seat and cargo space
- Strong competition from AMG A 45 S
Best for: Enthusiasts seeking unique character and accessible RS performance.
For more on Audi performance, see which Audi has the most horsepower.
7. Audi S3 – Most Affordable Performance Entry ($48,700)
The 2025 S3 receives substantial upgrades including a 22-horsepower increase to 333 HP, chassis improvements, and the addition of the advanced torque splitter technology[1]. At $48,700, it offers the most accessible entry point to Audi’s performance lineup.
Key Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder TFSI |
| Power | 333 HP / 310 lb-ft[1] |
| 0-60 mph | 4.4 seconds |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro with torque splitter |
| Fuel Economy | 24 city / 32 highway mpg |
For 2025, the S3 benefits from the RS 3-derived torque splitter, significantly improving handling dynamics[1]. The system can direct torque to individual rear wheels, enabling more neutral handling characteristics and controlled oversteer when desired. The interior receives updated materials and technology while maintaining the practical sedan body style.
Pros:
- Most affordable at $48,700[1]
- New torque splitter improves handling[1]
- 22 HP increase for 2025
- Best fuel economy (32 mpg highway)
Cons:
- Not a true RS model
- 4-cylinder lacks RS 3’s character
- Compact dimensions limit space
- Competition from Golf R, AMG A 35
Best for: Entry-level buyers seeking Audi Sport character at accessible pricing.
Review the 2025 Audi S3 specifications.
Electric vs. Combustion Performance
| Category | Best Electric | Best Combustion |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest 0-60 | RS e-tron GT Performance (2.1 sec)[7] | RS 7 Performance (2.9 sec)[5] |
| Top Speed | S e-tron GT (152 mph) | RS 6/7 (190 mph) |
| Range/Efficiency | S e-tron GT (300 miles)[8] | RS 5 (25 mpg hwy) |
| Sound Character | Silent | V8/5-cyl exhaust note |
| Charging/Refueling | ~18 min (10-80%) | ~5 min full tank |
The electric RS e-tron GT Performance delivers superior straight-line acceleration, while V8-powered RS models offer higher top speeds and the visceral exhaust note many enthusiasts prefer. The choice ultimately depends on whether instant electric torque or traditional combustion character better suits your driving priorities.
Which Audi Sports Car Should You Buy?
Choose the RS e-tron GT Performance if you:
- Want the fastest production Audi ever made[1]
- Prioritize cutting-edge electric technology
- Can accept 278-mile range limitations
Choose the RS 6 Avant if you:
- Need wagon practicality with supercar performance
- Value the V8 exhaust experience
- Require cargo space for family or gear
Choose the RS 7 Performance if you:
- Want sleek fastback styling with V8 power
- Prioritize tested 2.9-second 0-60 acceleration[5]
- Appreciate luxury grand touring character
Choose the RS 3 if you:
- Want RS performance under $65,000[6]
- Prefer compact dimensions for daily driving
- Appreciate the unique 5-cylinder character[2]
Choose the S3 if you:
- Have a budget under $55,000[1]
- Want the best fuel economy (32 mpg highway)
- Seek entry-level Audi Sport performance
Key Takeaways
- The RS e-tron GT Performance is the most powerful Audi ever at 912 HP with 2.4-second 0-60 acceleration[1]
- The RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Performance both deliver 621 HP from the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 with 190 mph top speed[1]
- The RS 3 offers the most affordable RS entry at $63,400 with its iconic 401 HP 5-cylinder engine[6]
- The S3 provides accessible performance at $48,700 with new torque-splitter technology for 2025[1]
- The R8 and TT were discontinued after 2023, with an electric successor expected[3]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest Audi sports car?
The 2025 RS e-tron GT Performance is the fastest Audi ever made, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 2.4 seconds with launch control (2.1 seconds in Car and Driver testing)[7]. It produces 912 horsepower from its dual-motor electric powertrain[1]. Among gasoline-powered models, the RS 7 Performance achieved 2.9 seconds in testing[5].
Does Audi still make the R8?
What is the cheapest Audi RS model?
How much horsepower does the RS e-tron GT have?
The 2025 RS e-tron GT Performance produces 912 horsepower with launch control, making it “the most powerful and quickest accelerating production Audi within the history of the brand’s portfolio”[1]. The entry-level S e-tron GT produces 670 horsepower[1]. Both figures represent significant increases from 2024 models.
References
- Audi USA Media. (2024). Audi updates 2025 model lineup. https://media.audiusa.com/releases/612
- YouTube. (2025). The 2025 Audi RS3 Is A Superb Speedy Sedan.
- Guide Auto Web. (2025). Audi to Unveil All-New Electric Sports Car in September. https://www.guideautoweb.com/en/articles/79418/
-
Reddit r/cars. (2025). Audi to Show Off New EV Sports Car.
Audi to Show Off New EV Sports Car Positioned Between the TT and R8 in September, CEO Says
byu/Sixteen-Cylinders incars - Car and Driver. (2025). 2025 Audi RS7 Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/rs7
- Audi Louisville. (2025). All 2024/2025 Audi Sport Car Models. https://www.audilouisville.com/en/audi-sport-dealer/
- Car and Driver. (2025). 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT Performance Test. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a64342917/2025-audi-rs-e-tron-gt-performance-drive/
- GreenCars. (2025). 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT Performance Review. https://www.greencars.com/expert-insights/2025-audi-rs-e-tron-gt-performance-review
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
