Audi Celebrates 25 Years Of RS Models, Confirms Two More For 2019

Audi is celebrating the 25th anniversary of RS models by taking a look back at its high-performance lineup.

Starting with the original, the RS 2 Avant was launched in 1994 with a turbocharged 2.2-liter five-cylinder engine that developed 311 hp (232 kW / 315 PS). The wagon’s engine was connected to a six-speed manual which is sent power to a quattro all-wheel drive system with a self-locking center differential.

Audi says the next significant model was the 1999 RS 4 Avant. Boasting a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6, which was upgraded with the assistance of Cosworth, the wagon had an impressive 375 hp (280 kW / 380 PS).

A new RS 4 arrived in 2005 with a V8 engine producing 414 hp (309 kW / 420 PS). Three years later, the company introduced the RS 6 Avant which had a twin-turbo 5.0-liter V10 with 572 hp (426 kW / 580 PS) and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) of torque.

Audi currently offers seven RS models including the RS 3 Sportback / Sedan, RS 4 Avant, RS 5 Coupe / Sportback and TT RS Coupe / Roadster. However, that lineup will soon expand as Audi confirmed 2019 will see “six further product innovations.” The company was coy on specifics, but confirmed two of those innovations are “completely new RS models.”

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One of them is likely the new RS Q8. It will reportedly be powered by a detuned version of the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that powers the Lamborghini Urus. Nothing is official, but the model could have around 592 hp (441 kW / 600 PS).

In other news, Audi is celebrating the 25th anniversary of RS models by hosting a special exhibition at the Audi Forum in Neckarsulm. Besides displaying production RS models, the exhibit also includes race cars and a RS 8 prototype that never went into production.