Is the 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT Still Electrifying in a Crowd of Rivals? A Pro’s Perspective
It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly four years since the Audi RS e-tron GT first hit the scene in early 2021. Back then, the high-performance EV landscape looked vastly different. As a seasoned automotive expert with over a decade in the industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand the electric revolution and the meteoric rise of competitors vying for the top spot. Once primarily challenged by its Porsche Taycan sibling, the RS e-tron GT now faces formidable contenders like the Lucid Air Grand Touring, the Tesla Model S Plaid, and the Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan.
The question is, in this rapidly evolving market, does the RS e-tron GT still hold its own? Starting at $145,395 (including destination charges), it’s now facing faster acceleration times and longer ranges from key competitors. But are stats the only thing that matters? Let’s delve into whether the RS e-tron GT’s striking design and engaging driving dynamics are enough to keep it relevant in 2025.
Striking Looks That Still Turn Heads
The Audi RS e-tron GT has always been a head-turner, even alongside the Porsche Taycan, with which it shares core components. While the Taycan boasts a smooth, minimalist aesthetic, the Audi amps up the visual drama. Its sculpted body lines accentuate the flared front and rear fenders, creating a sense of powerful elegance. The massive LED light bar at the rear visually widens the car, adding to its athletic stance.
Up front, the e-tron’s headlights stretch outwards, framing a prominent body-colored grille that makes the car appear wider and more imposing. This design approach results in a sportier and more visually captivating car, despite sharing similar proportions with the Taycan.
The color options further enhance its appeal. My personal favorite is Tactical Green Metallic, paired with a Santos Brown leather interior. It’s refreshing when automakers offer a diverse palette beyond the usual silver and grey shades. The Audi RS e-tron GT offers customizability with paint protection film that many owners are opting for.
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The Thrill of the Drive: Performance Beyond the Numbers
Beyond aesthetics, the RS e-tron GT truly shines in its driving experience. While the standard e-tron GT produces 469 horsepower from its dual electric motors, the RS cranks it up to 590 hp, with a temporary boost to 637 hp in Boost Mode. This translates to a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. On paper, the competition might seem to have an edge. The Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance, with its 1,050 hp, hits 60 mph in a mere 2.6 seconds, matching the 616-hp Porsche Taycan Turbo. The Tesla Model S Plaid, boasting 1,020 hp, claims a mind-blowing 1.99 seconds. Even the Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan lags slightly behind at 3.4 seconds.
However, raw numbers don’t always tell the whole story. The Porsche and Audi, unlike their competitors, utilize a two-speed transmission to deliver power to all four wheels. The Lucid, Tesla, and Mercedes-AMG rely on single-speed units, which provide rapid initial acceleration but can lose steam at higher speeds. The RS’s two-speed transmission allows it to maintain strong acceleration even at highway speeds, making its real-world performance feel surprisingly competitive.
This is where the RS e-tron GT distinguishes itself from the pack, as a true grand tourer, the car delivers power when you need it without hesitation.
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Handling and Ride: A Masterclass in Balance
The RS e-tron GT’s handling is where it truly stands apart. While sharing its underlying structure with the Porsche Taycan, Audi has tuned the suspension for a more compliant ride. The adaptive air suspension system is configured to be more forgiving than the Porsche’s, making the e-tron a more comfortable daily driver.
This doesn’t mean it’s a slouch in the corners. Point the RS e-tron GT towards a winding road, and you’ll be amazed by how a 5,100-lb sedan can grip, turn, and stop like a sports car. It remains composed and balanced even in tight corners, confidently putting down all its power on the exit. The optional carbon-ceramic brakes ($7,100) on my test vehicle provided exceptional stopping power, even after repeated runs down a challenging canyon road.
The feeling of driving is unique for the RS e-tron GT.
Range and Charging: Addressing the Elephant in the Room
The one potential downside is the range. The EPA estimates the RS e-tron GT’s range at 238 miles from its 93.4 kWh battery pack, placing it behind many of its direct competitors. For comparison, the Lucid boasts an estimated 446 miles, while the Tesla and Mercedes-AMG offer 396 and 277 miles, respectively.
While the reduced range may not be a major concern for those with home chargers, it can become an issue when driving aggressively. The RS tends to consume electrons quickly when pushed hard. While competitors also experience range reduction under spirited driving, their larger battery packs provide a greater buffer against range anxiety.
However, the RS e-tron GT compensates with its impressive charging speed. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture and 270 kW peak charge rate, it can replenish its battery from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 80 minutes at a compatible DC fast charging station.
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Price and Value: Where Does it Fit?
The 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT starts at $145,395, including the $1,495 destination charge. However, optional extras like the ceramic brake package ($7,100), carbon performance package ($6,450), and full leather interior package ($5,350) can quickly drive up the price. My test vehicle, equipped with these options, came in at $164,890.
A similarly equipped Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance costs around $163,500, while a comparable Mercedes-AMG EQS is priced at $164,140. Thanks to recent price adjustments, the Tesla Model S Plaid, even with options, undercuts its rivals, topping out around $109,880.
The Verdict: More Than Just Numbers
So, three years after its debut, is the RS e-tron GT still a top contender in the high-performance EV segment? The answer, as always, depends on the individual buyer. If you prioritize raw speed and maximum range above all else, the Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance or the Tesla Model S Plaid might be more appealing.
However, if you value a thrilling driving experience and a visually stunning design, the RS e-tron GT remains a compelling choice. It may not have the longest range or the quickest acceleration, but it delivers an engaging and rewarding driving experience that is unmatched by its rivals. After all, there’s more to a car than just the numbers. A true “electric vehicle 2025” must deliver not just on performance, but on emotion as well. This Audi does that in spades.
Call to Action: Ready to experience the thrill of the Audi RS e-tron GT for yourself? Contact your local Audi dealer today to schedule a test drive and discover the electrifying performance that awaits!
