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].
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.
| 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 |
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.
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Best for: Collectors and enthusiasts seeking the ultimate electric performance experience.
Explore the complete 2025 e-tron GT specifications.
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.
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Best for: Enthusiasts who refuse to sacrifice performance for practicality.
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.
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Best for: Buyers wanting supercar performance with executive sedan luxury.
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:
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Best for: EV enthusiasts seeking grand touring capability with strong performance.
Learn about Audi Electrify America free charging benefits.
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:
Cons:
Best for: Performance enthusiasts seeking RS experience at lower cost.
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.
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Best for: Enthusiasts seeking unique character and accessible RS performance.
For more on Audi performance, see which Audi has the most horsepower.
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.
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Best for: Entry-level buyers seeking Audi Sport character at accessible pricing.
Review the 2025 Audi S3 specifications.
| 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.
Choose the RS e-tron GT Performance if you:
Choose the RS 6 Avant if you:
Choose the RS 7 Performance if you:
Choose the RS 3 if you:
Choose the S3 if you:
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