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" It accelerates to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds with launch control, starting at $167,000 For enthusiasts preferring internal combustion, the RS 6 Avant delivers 621 horsepower in a practical wagon body for $126,600 Entry-level performance buyers should consider the RS 3 at $63,400 with its legendary turbocharged 5-cylinder engine producing nearly 400 horsepower
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 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
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, 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
RankModelStarting MSRPHorsepower0-60 mphTop SpeedBest For1RS e-tron GT Performance$167,000912 HP2.4 sec155 mphUltimate acceleration2RS 6 Avant$126,600621 HP3.5 sec190 mphPerformance + practicality3RS 7 Performance$128,600621 HP2.9 sec190 mphFour-door fastback4S e-tron GT$125,500670 HP3.3 sec152 mphElectric grand touring5RS 5 Sportback$79,900444 HP3.9 sec174 mphCompact performance6RS 3$63,400401 HP3.6 sec180 mphEntry performance7S3$48,700333 HP4.4 sec155 mphMost 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 Car and Driver achieved a 2.1-second 0-60 time in testing, making it quicker than even the Porsche Taycan Turbo
Key Specifications:
FeatureSpecificationMotorsDual electric (front/rear)Power912 HP with launch controlTorque700+ lb-ft0-60 mph2.4 seconds (claimed) / 2.1 seconds (C/D tested)Quarter Mile9.8 sec @ 138 mphBattery105 kWhEPA Range278 milesMax Charging320 kW
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
2.1-second tested 0-60 acceleration
320 kW charging for ~18 minutes 10-80%
Stunning four-door grand touring design
Cons:
$167,000+ pricing limits accessibility
278-mile range compromised for performance
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
Key Specifications:
FeatureSpecificationEngine4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 TFSIPower621 HP / 627 lb-ft0-60 mph3.5 secondsTop Speed190 mph (with Dynamic Plus package)Transmission8-speed TiptronicDrivetrainQuattro 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. 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"
Key Specifications:
FeatureSpecificationEngine4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 TFSIPower621 HP / 627 lb-ft0-60 mph2.9 seconds (C/D tested)Quarter Mile11.1 sec @ 125 mphTop Speed190 mphBraking 70-0143 feet (with ceramic brakes)Skidpad1.06 g
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
25 cubic feet cargo space (hatchback practicality)
Standard adaptive air suspension
1.06 g skidpad grip
Cons:
$128,600+ starting price
14 city / 21 highway mpg
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—while offering 300 miles of EPA-estimated range.
Key Specifications:
FeatureSpecificationMotorsDual electric (front/rear)Power670 HP with launch control0-60 mph3.3 secondsBattery105 kWhEPA Range300 milesTransmissionSingle-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
Pros:
More power than previous RS model for less money
300-mile range—longest in e-tron GT family
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:
FeatureSpecificationEngine2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 TFSIPower444 HP / 443 lb-ft0-60 mph3.9 secondsTop Speed174 mph (with Dynamic Plus)Transmission8-speed TiptronicFuel Economy18 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
Pros:
Sub-$80,000 entry to RS lineup
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 At $63,400, it represents the most affordable way into Audi Sport ownership
Key Specifications:
FeatureSpecificationEngine2.5L Turbocharged 5-cylinder TFSIPower401 HP / 369 lb-ft0-60 mph3.6 secondsTop Speed180 mph (with Dynamic Plus)Transmission7-speed S tronicDrivetrainQuattro 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
Torque-splitter enables rear-biased dynamics
Most affordable RS model at $63,400
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 At $48,700, it offers the most accessible entry point to Audi's performance lineup.
Key Specifications:
FeatureSpecificationEngine2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder TFSIPower333 HP / 310 lb-ft0-60 mph4.4 secondsTransmission7-speed S tronicDrivetrainQuattro with torque splitterFuel Economy24 city / 32 highway mpg
For 2025, the S3 benefits from the RS 3-derived torque splitter, significantly improving handling dynamics 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
New torque splitter improves handling
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
CategoryBest ElectricBest CombustionFastest 0-60RS e-tron GT Performance (2.1 sec)RS 7 Performance (2.9 sec)Top SpeedS e-tron GT (152 mph)RS 6/7 (190 mph)Range/EfficiencyS e-tron GT (300 miles)RS 5 (25 mpg hwy)Sound CharacterSilentV8/5-cyl exhaust noteCharging/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
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
Appreciate luxury grand touring character
Choose the RS 3 if you:
Want RS performance under $65,000
Prefer compact dimensions for daily driving
Appreciate the unique 5-cylinder character
Choose the S3 if you:
Have a budget under $55,000
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
The RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Performance both deliver 621 HP from the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 with 190 mph top speed
The RS 3 offers the most affordable RS entry at $63,400 with its iconic 401 HP 5-cylinder engine
The S3 provides accessible performance at $48,700 with new torque-splitter technology for 2025
The R8 and TT were discontinued after 2023, with an electric successor expected
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) It produces 912 horsepower from its dual-motor electric powertrain Among gasoline-powered models, the RS 7 Performance achieved 2.9 seconds in testing
Does Audi still make the R8?
No, the Audi R8 was discontinued after the 2023 model year along with the TT sports car Audi has announced plans to unveil a new all-electric sports car positioned between the TT and R8 segments, expected to share a platform with the next-generation Porsche Boxster/Cayman EVs.
What is the cheapest Audi RS model?
The 2025 Audi RS 3 is the most affordable RS model at $63,400 MSRP For even more accessible performance, the S3 starts at $48,700 The RS 5 Sportback at $79,900 represents the entry point to Audi's twin-turbo V6 performance lineup
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" The entry-level S e-tron GT produces 670 horsepower 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.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjvgvL2TgpA
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.
https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/1m97no1/
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