Audi’s RS concepts push the limits of performance, engineering, and design. While some reached production, others remained as tantalizing prototypes, never making it to the streets. With cutting-edge aerodynamics, powerful engines, and track focused precision, these RS concepts had everything, except a green light. Here are 10 RS concept cars that should have been built.
RS Avus Quattro
The Audi Avus Quattro stunned audiences with its futuristic aluminum body and 6.0L W12 engine, making it a potential Ferrari rival. However, its lightweight aluminum frame was deemed too expensive for production, leaving it as a concept-only masterpiece. This car could have solidified Audi’s dominance in the high-performance supercar world effortlessly.
RS8
Envisioned as an even more powerful version of the already iconic R8, the RS8 concept featured a twin-turbo V10 with over 700 horsepower. Audi ultimately decided to keep the R8’s performance balanced rather than pushing it into hypercar territory. This missed opportunity could have challenged Lamborghini and McLaren in ways never seen before.
RS7 Clubsport
Audi teased enthusiasts with a track focused RS7 concept boasting over 750 horsepower and race spec aerodynamics. This stripped down monster promised exhilarating performance but never transitioned into production. Had it been built, it could have redefined the super-sedan category entirely.
RS5 TDI
A high-performance diesel RS model seemed like an unusual idea, but Audi developed the RS5 TDI concept with an electrically-assisted turbocharger. Despite its incredible torque and efficiency, the market wasn’t ready for a diesel RS car, leading Audi to abandon the project completely.
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RS6 Avant E-Tron
Audi considered an all-electric RS6 Avant, blending high performance EV technology with the practicality of a wagon. However, the concept was never realized, as Audi shifted its focus to standalone electric models instead of electrifying its RS lineup. This could have been a game changer in the performance EV segment.
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RSQ e-Tron
The RSQ e-Tron was a vision of an all-electric RS coupe built for high-speed endurance racing. It showcased next level aerodynamics and instant torque but never moved beyond the prototype phase. This model could have been Audi’s Tesla Roadster rival with unmatched performance and efficiency.
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RS TT Clubsport Turbo
This concept packed an aggressive turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder engine pushing out over 600 horsepower. It was designed as a lightweight, track-focused RS TT but was ultimately deemed too extreme for road use. A production version could have been Audi’s answer to Porsche’s 718 GT4.
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RS1
A high-performance RS1 was conceptualized to bring rally-inspired power to the smallest Audi model, featuring an upgraded Quattro system and turbocharged engine. Despite promising excitement, Audi chose to focus on larger RS models instead. A production RS1 could have been a serious competitor to the A45 AMG and GR Yaris.
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RS6 Allroad
Audi explored an RS6 Allroad concept, blending the raw power of the RS6 Avant with off-road capabilities. It featured a lifted suspension, reinforced body panels, and all-terrain tires, making it an off-road enthusiast’s dream. Unfortunately, it remained a concept, leaving adventure-seekers longing for a high performance off-road wagon.
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RS Spyder
Taking inspiration from Audi’s endurance racing success, the RS Spyder concept was designed as a street legal version of its Le Mans-winning prototype. However, the extreme engineering required made it financially unfeasible for mass production, despite its potential to be an iconic hypercar.
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Audi’s RS concepts have showcased the brand’s commitment to performance and innovation. While many never reached production, they revealed Audi’s engineering potential and bold vision. Whether halted by costs or market shifts, these unbuilt legends remain a glimpse of what could have been.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
14 Greatest Audi Models Of All Time
Audi has built a reputation for blending luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Over the decades, the German automaker has introduced game changing vehicles that pushed the boundaries of engineering and design. From rally dominating legends to high-performance sedans and futuristic electric models, Audi has consistently delivered excellence. Here are 10 of the greatest Audi models that have left a lasting mark on automotive history.
Read it here: 14 Greatest Audi Models Of All Time
14 Fascinating Fiat Cars That Never Made It to Showrooms
Fiat has a long history of creating innovative, quirky, and sometimes downright bizarre concept cars. Many of these never made it past the prototype stage, either due to market shifts, production costs, or simply because they were too ahead of their time. Here are 14 fascinating Fiat cars that were designed, developed, but ultimately never reached showrooms.
Read it here: 14 Fascinating Fiat Cars That Never Made It to Showrooms
12 Legendary Cars That Featured 5-Cylinder Power
The five-cylinder engine is a rare but fascinating configuration in the automotive world, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and a unique exhaust note. While V6 and inline-four engines dominate most segments, the five-cylinder has been used by select manufacturers to deliver thrilling performance and durability. From rally champions to high-performance road cars, these engines have left an enduring mark on automotive history.
Read it here: 12 Legendary Cars That Featured 5-Cylinder Power
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