The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT: Still a Contender in the Electric Arena?
It’s been a wild ride in the EV world since the Audi RS e-tron GT first hit the scene. Back in early 2021, it felt like the playing field was relatively simple. Now? The competition has exploded. As a seasoned automotive expert with over a decade of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the rapid evolution of electric vehicles, and the RS e-tron GT finds itself in a much more crowded arena than ever before. It’s no longer just about keeping up with its Porsche Taycan sibling; the RS now faces formidable rivals like the Lucid Air Grand Touring, the Tesla Model S Plaid, and the Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan.
But let’s be clear: the fundamental attributes that made Audi’s electric flagship so appealing in the first place haven’t vanished. It remains, in my professional opinion, one of the most visually stunning EVs on the road, boasting a design that is both curvaceous and sophisticated. And thanks to its shared engineering with Porsche, the handling is surprisingly agile for a vehicle weighing over 5,100 pounds. The question is, have these qualities aged well enough to withstand the onslaught of new competitors in 2025?
With a starting price hovering around $145,395 (including destination charges), the RS e-tron GT now lags behind its direct competitors in terms of raw acceleration and maximum range. So, does its captivating design and engaging driving dynamics make it a worthwhile choice in today’s high-stakes EV market? Let’s dive deeper.
Striking Aesthetics and Unmistakable Presence
Sharing key components with the Porsche Taycan, thanks to a collaborative effort between Audi and Porsche, the Audi RS e-tron GT has always been the more visually striking of the two. Where the Porsche opts for a clean, minimalist aesthetic, Audi takes a bolder approach, using sculpted body lines to accentuate the flared fenders both front and rear. The massive LED light bar at the rear further emphasizes the car’s width, creating a dramatic visual signature.
This design philosophy extends to the front, where the e-tron’s headlights stretch towards the edges of the fascia, leaving room for a body-colored grille that gives the car a broader stance. The result is a vehicle that exudes a sporty and undeniably captivating presence, even with its similar proportions to the Taycan.
And it’s not just the overall shape that impresses. The available color palette adds another layer of appeal. The Tactical Green Metallic, paired with the Santos Brown leather interior, creates a sophisticated and unique combination. It’s refreshing to see manufacturers offering more than just the usual shades of silver and grey. These unique color options add to the overall luxury car experience.
Performance That’s More Than Just Numbers
The RS e-tron GT’s greatest strength lies in its exceptional driving experience. While the standard e-tron GT produces 469 horsepower from its two electric motors, the RS variant bumps that figure up to 590 hp, with a temporary boost mode pushing it to 637 hp. This translates to a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
However, it’s true that several competitors boast even quicker acceleration times. The Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance (1,050 hp) hits 60 mph in 2.6 seconds, matching the Porsche Taycan Turbo (616 hp), while the Tesla Model S Plaid (1,020 hp) claims a mind-bending 1.99 seconds. The Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan, with its 3.4-second sprint, is the only one in this group that’s slower. These are great stats on paper, but what do they really mean on the road? And how do they translate to the luxury experience that many buyers in the luxury EV segment are looking for?
But here’s the thing: these numbers don’t tell the whole story. The Audi and Porsche are the only ones in the group that use 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 lose some of their punch as speeds increase. The RS e-tron GT’s two-speed transmission allows it to maintain impressive acceleration even at highway speeds, making the real-world driving experience surprisingly competitive, even against rivals with significantly higher horsepower figures. It’s a question of usable power.
Handling Prowess and a Grand Touring Persona
Where the e-tron GT truly distinguishes itself is in the handling department. Despite sharing its core architecture with the Porsche, the GT is far from being a mere re-bodied Taycan. The Audi utilizes an adaptive air suspension system, tuned to be more compliant than the Porsche’s setup. This results in a more comfortable and refined ride quality, making the e-tron a more enjoyable daily driver.
True to its “Gran Turismo” designation, these tuning choices give the RS its own unique character. It’s less of a hardcore performance sedan like the Taycan and more of an athletic grand tourer, perfect for long-distance cruising with a dash of excitement. This is a luxury electric vehicle that is actually luxurious.
Despite its focus on comfort, the RS e-tron GT is no slouch in the corners. Point it towards a winding road, and you’ll discover a 5,100-lb sedan that grips, turns, and stops with surprising agility. While it might not feel as stiff as a Taycan Turbo, it remains remarkably balanced through tight corners, confidently putting down all its power on the exit. The optional carbon-ceramic brakes ($7,100) on my test vehicle proved their worth, keeping the car in check during spirited canyon runs without any noticeable fade. The brakes gave me an extra peace of mind while cornering.
Range and Charging Considerations
The only real drawback when pushing the RS e-tron GT on a challenging road is its range. With a 93.4 kWh battery pack, the EPA estimates a range of 238 miles, which is less than most of its direct competitors. The Lucid Air boasts a 446-mile range, while the Tesla and Mercedes-AMG offer 396 and 277 miles, respectively.
While the e-tron’s range might not be an issue for owners with home charging capabilities, it can become a concern when driving aggressively. The RS tends to consume electrons quickly when pushed hard. While its competitors face similar issues, their larger battery packs and greater range provide a greater sense of security.
On the plus side, the e-tron’s 270 kW peak charging rate allows it to replenish its battery relatively quickly. Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, it can go from a 10 to 80 percent charge in around 80 minutes at a compatible fast charging station.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT starts at $145,395, including a $1,495 destination fee. However, with optional extras like the ceramic brake package ($7,100), carbon performance package ($6,450), and full leather interior package ($5,350), the as-tested price of my evaluation vehicle came out to $164,890.
For comparison, a similarly equipped Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance costs around $163,500, while a comparable Mercedes-AMG EQS comes in at $164,140. The Tesla Model S Plaid, even with optional upgrades, undercuts the competition significantly, often selling for under $110,000 due to frequent price adjustments.
This means that the RS e-tron GT is priced competitively with most of its rivals, but is it the best choice for your money in 2025?
The Verdict: A Car for the Enthusiast
So, is the RS e-tron GT the ultimate high-performance EV three years after its debut? The answer, as always, depends on the individual buyer. If you’re solely focused on achieving the quickest 0-60 time and the longest possible range, the RS might not be the best fit. The Lucid Air offers superior range, and the Model S Plaid delivers unmatched value.
However, the RS e-tron GT appeals to a different type of enthusiast: someone who prioritizes an engaging driving experience over sheer numbers. While it might not have the longest range or the fastest acceleration, it excels at delivering thrills behind the wheel. Cars in this price range should be emotional purchases, not purely practical ones, and the e-tron GT’s striking looks and dynamic performance make a compelling case for itself.
Ultimately, the Audi RS e-tron GT reminds us that there’s more to a car than just statistics. It is a luxury, an experience, and a statement. And if that statement speaks to you, it might just be the perfect EV for you. And if you are in the market for a new luxury electric vehicle, contact Audi of [Your City] today for a test drive and experience the thrill of the RS e-tron GT firsthand!
