2017 Audi RS5 commences on-road chassis testing

Audi is testing the running gear of its next-generation super-coupé under the body of an S5

Audi has been spotted testing the running gear and engine of its next-generation RS5 super-coupé in a mule wearing the body of an S5.

At first glances this development car looks like a 2017 S5, but eagle-eyed onlookers will notice it features much larger front air intakes and larger wheels on a wider track, revealing the true identity of what lies beneath.

The larger intakes have been added to feed the RS model’s more potent engine, which, despite being unconfirmed, is expected to switch from today’s normally aspirated V8 with 444 bhp to a twin-turbocharged V6 producing around 500 bhp.

That should see the new four-wheel-drive coupé capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in around four seconds.

History says that the RS model will arrive late into the A5 model’s life cycle, but insiders say the next-gen RS5 will be launched earlier in order to meet growing demand.

When it arrives, the RS5 will rival BMW’s M4 and Mercedes-AMG’s C 63 coupé. Pricing will likely increase slightly on the current car’s £58,365.