Audi RS e-tron GT Performance 2026 Review: Electric Super-Sedan

The Audi RS e-tron GT Performance 2026 Review tests a simple proposition: that an electric sedan can deliver supercar-level thrust without sacrificing grand touring civility. With 912 horsepower, Audi's halo EV has been completely reengineered in just 18 months, to the point where even the base S model now outguns the previous RS flagship.

Powertrain Reengineered, Not Refreshed

Under the skin, the 2026 lineup abandons the old 84 kWh pack for a larger 97 kWh battery that weighs 9 kg less. DC charging rises from 270 kW to 320 kW, and all versions gain a redesigned rear motor. Audi now offers three tiers: S e-tron GT with 500 kW (670 hp) and 717 Nm for 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and 558 km range, RS e-tron GT with 630 kW (845 hp) and 865 Nm in 2.8 seconds and 522 km range, and the flagship Performance with 680 kW (912 hp) and 1,027 Nm (757 lb-ft) in a claimed 2.5 seconds and 528 km (328 miles).

Base output is 738 hp with a 10-second boost to 832 hp before launch control unlocks the full 912 hp. Unlike many EVs, the RS retains a two-speed transmission. The standard car shifts at around 85 km/h, but the Performance holds first gear to 120 km/h, delivering a second surge as if pulled into a black hole. Independent testing recorded 2.63 seconds over just 39.1 meters, with all four wheels spinning faintly beyond 100 km/h regardless of ESC mode.

Efficiency is quoted at 21.0 kWh/100 km as tested, slightly higher than before, reflecting the focus on power delivery over maximum range. This is not a car purchased to eke out distance, but to amplify intention.

Chassis That Leans Into the Corner

Equally transformative is the active suspension. Building on Porsche Taycan advances, Audi uses air suspension with two-valve dampers that eliminate traditional anti-roll bars. In Comfort, the car can lean into a corner. In RS modes, it eliminates body roll entirely, remaining flat even during high-speed slaloms despite weighing 2,330 kg (5,136 lbs). All-wheel steering reduces the turning circle and curbing risk for its expensive 21-inch forged wheels fitted with 265/35 front and 305/30 Bridgestone Potenza Sport tyres.

Dimensions remain elegant: 4,996 mm long, 2,158 mm wide, 1,394 mm high, with a 2,901 mm wheelbase. The car rises slightly when a door opens, easing ingress, a detail that can be disabled. Over broken surfaces, it absorbs impacts with a composure that surpasses any other current Audi, making potholes and speed bumps feel almost absent in its softer settings.

Craftsmanship & Experience: Distinctly RS

Visually, Audi has corrected the previous generation's anonymity. The 2026 RS models gain more aggressive front intakes with forged carbon finish, bespoke rear diffuser, and unique six double-spoke 21-inch wheels. Optional matt carbon camouflage package, at AU$10,000, extends forged carbon to sills, dashboard, and door panels, paired with a AU$4,500 performance design package adding green accents and Nappa leather.

Inside, the flat-bottom and flat-top Alcantara steering wheel with bright red Boost and RS buttons is new, alongside 10.1-inch infotainment, 12.3-inch cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio. RS-branded front seats offer massage functions among the finest currently available. Touchpoints are excellent, though some switchgear is shared with lesser Audi models — a minor friction at this price.

Rear headroom remains limited by the swooping roofline, with only USB-C ports and fan controls for rear occupants. The focus is clearly front-biased, as befits a super-sedan that can serve as a daily driver yet delivers supercar acceleration at any speed.

"The e-tron GT remains Audi's best EV — and the Performance adds a level of ferocity that recalibrates expectation."

— TIMELESS GENIE FEEDS DESK

Frequently Asked Questions

How much power does the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance make?

The Performance produces 912 hp (680 kW) and 757 lb-ft (1,027 Nm) with launch control, from dual permanent-magnet motors with a 97 kWh battery, making it Audi's most powerful production car ever.

How fast is the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance 2026?

0-62 mph in 2.5 seconds claimed, 2.63 seconds tested over 39.1 meters, with a two-speed transmission holding first gear to 120 km/h. Range is 528 km (328 miles) WLTP with 320 kW DC charging capability.

How much does the RS e-tron GT Performance cost?

Base price is $167,000 to $170,000 in the US, $190,190 to $216,800 as tested, and AU$309,900 in Australia, a significant increase over the previous flagship at AU$246,875 due to extensive reengineering.

What is new in the 2026 RS e-tron GT lineup?

New 97 kWh battery weighing 9 kg less than old 84 kWh, 320 kW charging up from 270 kW, active air suspension with two-valve dampers eliminating anti-roll bars, all-wheel steering, forged carbon aero, and three tiers: S with 670 hp, RS with 845 hp, Performance with 912 hp.

How does it compare to Porsche Taycan Turbo S?

The RS e-tron GT Performance shares J1 platform advances with Taycan Turbo S but offers distinct Audi tuning, 21-inch wheels, 265/35 front and 305/30 rear Bridgestone Potenza Sport tyres, and a more grand touring bias with superior ride comfort in Comfort mode.

The RS e-tron GT Performance does not ask you to choose between supercar ferocity and grand touring ease. It leans into a corner, rises to greet you, and then disappears into its own acceleration with a composure that feels closer to physics than to horsepower alone.