Audi RS e-tron GT Review (2025): Still a Thrill Ride After All These Years?
Three years ago, the automotive landscape was a very different place. The Audi RS e-tron GT, unveiled in early 2021, burst onto the scene as a striking electric grand tourer, but the EV market has exploded since then. Now, the RS e-tron GT faces a gauntlet of high-performance EVs, including the Lucid Air Grand Touring, Tesla Model S Plaid, and Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan. But does the RS e-tron GT still hold its own? As an industry veteran with a decade of experience, I’ve spent considerable time behind the wheel of this beauty and its rivals, and I’m here to provide an in-depth analysis.
A Design That Still Turns Heads
One thing hasn’t changed: the RS e-tron GT remains one of the most visually captivating EVs on the road. While it shares its underpinnings with the Porsche Taycan, the Audi distinguishes itself with a more dramatic and sculpted design. The flared fenders, connected by a striking LED light bar, give it a wide, aggressive stance. The front fascia, with its body-colored grille and sharply angled headlights, further enhances its sporty appeal. I’ve always appreciated how Audi manages to blend elegance with aggression, a trait that is rare in today’s market.
The color options are another plus. My test car, cloaked in Tactical Green Metallic and complemented by a Santos Brown leather interior, was a testament to Audi’s commitment to offering something beyond the usual silver and gray palettes. These design elements give the Audi RS e-tron GT a unique and compelling identity in a sea of increasingly homogenous EVs.
Driving Dynamics: Where the RS e-tron GT Truly Shines
The RS e-tron GT isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a driver’s car through and through. While the base e-tron GT produces a respectable 469 horsepower, the RS variant cranks it up to 590 hp, with a temporary boost to 637 hp. This translates to a blistering 0-60 mph time of around 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: straight-line speed. The Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance (1,050 hp), Tesla Model S Plaid (1,020 hp), and even the Porsche Taycan Turbo (616 hp) are all quicker off the line. The Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan, with its 3.4-second 0-60 mph time, is the only competitor that lags behind.
However, numbers don’t always tell the whole story. The RS e-tron GT and its Porsche sibling are unique in their segment for using a two-speed transmission. While others use single-speed units that provide neck-snapping initial acceleration, they often run out of steam at higher speeds. The electric vehicle’s two-speed gearbox gives it impressive acceleration at highway speeds, making it feel just as quick, if not quicker, in real-world driving situations. The feeling of instant torque and relentless pulling power is addictive.
Handling and Comfort: A Grand Tourer at Heart
Beyond raw acceleration, the RS e-tron GT distinguishes itself with its exceptional handling. Despite sharing a platform with the Taycan, Audi has tuned the adaptive air suspension for greater compliance, making it a more comfortable daily driver. This doesn’t mean it sacrifices sportiness; it simply leans more towards the grand tourer end of the spectrum.
On a twisty back road, the RS e-tron GT truly comes alive. It’s remarkable how well this 5,100-pound sedan grips, turns, and stops. The car feels balanced and composed, even when pushed hard. The optional carbon-ceramic brakes ($7,100) on my test car provided phenomenal stopping power, inspiring confidence during spirited canyon runs. These brakes are a worthy investment for those who plan on regularly exploring the car’s performance limits. The luxury electric vehicle is more than capable on the track as well, but where it really shines is on long, winding stretches of open road.
Range and Charging: The Achilles’ Heel?
Now, for the less glamorous but equally important aspect: range. The RS e-tron GT’s 93.4 kWh battery pack provides an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles. In a world where Lucid boasts 446 miles and Tesla claims 396 miles, this feels a bit short. The Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan’s 277 miles also surpasses the Audi.
In real-world conditions, especially when driving aggressively, the range diminishes quickly. This can induce range anxiety, particularly on longer trips. While home charging alleviates some concerns, the limited range is a notable drawback compared to its competitors.
On the bright side, the RS e-tron GT supports 270 kW fast charging, allowing it to replenish from 10% to 80% in around 80 minutes at a compatible charger. This is thanks to its 800-volt architecture, which is among the fastest in the industry. While charging speed is impressive, it doesn’t fully compensate for the lower range.
Pricing and Value: Where Does it Stand?
The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT starts at approximately $147,000, including destination charges. However, options like the ceramic brake package, carbon performance package ($6,450), and full leather interior package ($5,350) can quickly inflate the price. My well-equipped test car stickered at around $165,000.
In this price range, the competition is fierce. A similarly equipped Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance is around the same price, while the Mercedes-AMG EQS comes in at a comparable figure. The Tesla Model S Plaid, even with options, is significantly cheaper, which is why the Audi electric car needs to provide value elsewhere.
The Verdict: An Emotional Purchase
So, is the RS e-tron GT the ultimate high-performance EV? It depends on your priorities. If you’re solely focused on 0-60 mph times and maximum range, the Lucid and Tesla might be more appealing. However, the Audi offers something unique: a thrilling driving experience and stunning design that tugs at the heartstrings. The RS e-tron GT is all about driving enjoyment, making it a desirable car in the luxury EV market.
Who is the RS e-tron GT For?
The RS e-tron GT appeals to a specific type of buyer: someone who values driving dynamics, aesthetics, and overall experience over outright performance figures. It’s an emotional purchase, not a purely rational one. If you appreciate the blend of luxury, performance, and head-turning design, the RS e-tron GT is definitely worth considering.
After all, cars at this price point should be more than just appliances. They should evoke passion and excitement. With its killer looks, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior, the RS e-tron GT still makes a strong case for itself in a crowded and competitive market.
Final Thoughts
The Audi RS e-tron GT isn’t perfect. Its range is lower than some competitors, and it’s not the quickest in a straight line. However, it offers a unique blend of style, performance, and luxury that is hard to resist. It’s a car that makes you want to drive, and that, in my book, is what truly matters.
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Ready to experience the thrill of the Audi RS e-tron GT for yourself? Visit your local Audi dealer to schedule a test drive and discover the electrifying performance firsthand.
