The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT: Still Electrifying After All These Years?
It’s hard to believe it’s been nearly four years since the Audi RS e-tron GT first hit the scene. The electric vehicle landscape has transformed dramatically since then, becoming a veritable coliseum of high-performance contenders. Back in early 2021, the RS e-tron GT primarily had to contend with its Porsche cousin, the Taycan. Today, it’s facing a full-on assault from the likes of the Lucid Air Grand Touring, the monstrous Tesla Model S Plaid, and the refined Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan.
The burning question: In this cutthroat arena of electric titans, can the RS e-tron GT’s undeniable charisma and engaging driving dynamics still justify its premium price tag?
Striking a Pose: Design That Still Turns Heads
One thing is certain: the Audi RS e-tron GT remains a head-turner. Sharing its fundamental architecture and powertrain with the Porsche Taycan, the Audi has always carved its own distinct visual path. Where the Taycan embraces a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, the RS e-tron GT flaunts a more assertive and sculpted design. Aggressive body lines accentuate the flared front and rear fenders, culminating in a dramatic full-width LED light bar at the rear. This design element not only looks fantastic but also visually widens the car, giving it a more planted and powerful stance.
The front fascia continues this theme, with sharp headlights that stretch outwards, framing a prominent, body-colored grille. This bold design choice gives the e-tron GT a broader, more imposing presence than its dimensions might suggest. The result is a car that feels more dynamic and visually stimulating than its Porsche sibling, despite sharing similar proportions. For discerning buyers in cities like Los Angeles, California who want to make a statement, the Audi RS e-tron GT stands out.
Adding to its allure are the captivating color options. My personal favorite, the Tactical Green Metallic, paired beautifully with the Santos Brown leather interior. It’s refreshing when automakers venture beyond the predictable palette of grays and silvers, offering hues that truly elevate the car’s aesthetic.
Beyond the Numbers: The Thrill of the Drive
Beyond its striking good looks, the RS e-tron GT’s greatest strength lies in its driving experience. The standard e-tron GT delivers a respectable 469 horsepower, but the RS variant ups the ante to a formidable 590 hp, with a temporary Boost Mode pushing it to 637 hp. This translates to blistering acceleration, launching Audi’s flagship EV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph. The electric vehicle acceleration is a key selling point.
While these figures are undeniably impressive, it’s important to acknowledge that nearly all of its direct competitors are quicker on paper. The Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance, with its mind-boggling 1,050 hp, achieves the 0-60 mph sprint in a staggering 2.6 seconds, matching the Porsche Taycan Turbo’s time with its 616 hp. The Tesla Model S Plaid, boasting 1,020 hp, obliterates the competition with a jaw-dropping 1.99-second time. The Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan lags slightly behind, claiming a 3.4-second figure.
However, these raw statistics don’t tell the whole story. The Porsche and Audi stand apart from their rivals by employing a two-speed transmission to distribute power to all four wheels. The Lucid, Tesla, and Mercedes-AMG rely on single-speed units, which deliver explosive initial acceleration but tend to lose steam as speeds increase. The RS e-tron GT’s two-speed transmission, on the other hand, allows it to maintain relentless acceleration even at highway speeds. This translates to a real-world driving experience that feels remarkably competitive, even against rivals with significantly higher horsepower figures. The Audi RS e-tron GT performance feels exceptional in everyday driving situations.
Handling Prowess: A Grand Tourer with Supercar DNA
But the RS e-tron GT truly distinguishes itself through its exceptional handling dynamics. Despite sharing its fundamental architecture with the Porsche Taycan, the GT is more than just a re-bodied sibling. It utilizes an adaptive air suspension system, meticulously tuned by Audi to provide a more compliant and comfortable ride than the Porsche. This makes the e-tron GT a more agreeable daily driver, perfectly suited for long journeys.
However, don’t mistake its comfort-oriented suspension for a lack of sporting intent. The RS e-tron GT is eager to tackle twisty roads with surprising agility. Despite its hefty 5,100-pound curb weight, this sedan grips, turns, and stops with the poise of a true sports car. While it may not be as relentlessly stiff as a comparable Taycan Turbo, it maintains excellent balance through tight corners, confidently deploying its power on exit.
My test vehicle was equipped with the optional $7,100 carbon ceramic brakes, a worthwhile investment that provided unwavering stopping power, even during repeated high-speed runs on canyon roads. There was no noticeable fade, inspiring confidence behind the wheel.
Range Anxiety: The Achilles Heel?
The only real concern when pushing the RS e-tron GT on challenging roads is its range. Powered by a 93.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack, the EPA estimates its range at 238 miles, placing it behind most of its direct competitors. The Lucid Air boasts an estimated range of 446 miles, while the Tesla and Mercedes-AMG offer 396 and 277 miles, respectively.
For buyers with home charging capabilities, the e-tron’s shorter range may not be a major issue. However, it can quickly become a concern when driving aggressively, as the RS consumes electricity at a rapid pace. While its competitors also experience range degradation under spirited driving conditions, their larger battery packs provide a greater buffer against range anxiety. If you’re considering electric vehicle ownership in Miami, range is definitely something to keep in mind.
Fortunately, the e-tron GT redeems itself with its rapid charging capabilities. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture and 270 kW peak charge rate, it can replenish its battery from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 23 minutes at a compatible DC fast charging station. This impressive charging speed helps to mitigate the range concerns, especially on longer journeys.
Pricing and Value: A Premium Proposition
The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT carries a starting price of around $147,000, including destination charges. However, the addition of optional extras, such as the carbon ceramic brakes, carbon performance package, and full leather interior, can quickly push the price well beyond $165,000.
In comparison, a similarly equipped Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance costs around $165,000, while a comparable Mercedes-AMG EQS comes in at approximately $166,000. The Tesla Model S Plaid, even with optional upgrades, remains significantly more affordable, typically around $110,000.
The Verdict: An Emotional Choice
So, is the RS e-tron GT still a compelling choice in the fiercely competitive world of high-performance EVs? The answer, as always, depends on the individual buyer’s priorities.
For those solely focused on maximizing range and achieving the quickest possible 0-60 mph time, the RS e-tron GT may fall short of the Lucid Air’s exceptional range or the Model S Plaid’s unmatched acceleration and value.
However, the RS e-tron GT appeals to a different kind of enthusiast: one who prioritizes a thrilling and engaging driving experience above all else. While it may not boast the longest range or the quickest acceleration, it excels at delivering a visceral connection between driver and machine. It’s a car that stirs the emotions, rewarding the driver with its impeccable handling, stunning design, and overall sense of occasion.
Cars at this price point should be emotional purchases, not purely rational ones. And with its captivating looks, exhilarating performance, and undeniable charisma, the Audi RS e-tron GT still makes a compelling case for itself. Ultimately, there’s more to a car than just the numbers.
Are you ready to experience the thrill of the Audi RS e-tron GT firsthand? Contact your local Audi dealer today to schedule a test drive and discover what makes this electric grand tourer so special.
