Is the 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT Still Electrifying? A Deep Dive Review
The Audi RS e-tron GT burst onto the scene in early 2021, promising a blend of striking aesthetics and exhilarating performance in the burgeoning high-performance electric vehicle segment. Now, several years later, the landscape has shifted dramatically. As a seasoned automotive industry expert with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen the EV market explode with new contenders, each vying for the crown. The RS e-tron GT once primarily concerned with the Porsche Taycan, now faces stiff competition from the likes of the Lucid Air Grand Touring, Tesla Model S Plaid, and Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan.
But does the Audi RS e-tron GT still hold its own against this fresh wave of electric powerhouses? Starting at a considerable $145,395 (including destination charges), is its alluring design and engaging driving dynamics enough to compensate for what it arguably lacks in range and outright acceleration compared to some of its rivals? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review.
A Design That Still Turns Heads
One thing remains undeniable: the Audi RS e-tron GT is a stunning vehicle. Even alongside newer EVs, its design continues to stand out. Sharing its fundamental architecture with the Porsche Taycan (a testament to the collaborative engineering prowess of the Volkswagen Group), the Audi RS e-tron GT carves out its own distinct visual identity. Where the Taycan exudes a sleek, minimalist sophistication, the Audi flaunts more aggressively sculpted lines.
The flared front and rear fenders, emphasized by carefully crafted body lines, give the Audi RS e-tron GT a more muscular stance. A full-width LED light bar dominates the rear, visually widening the car and creating a dramatic signature. The front fascia is equally captivating, with headlights pushed outwards to accentuate the car’s width and a prominent body-colored grille that makes a bold statement. The overall effect is a sportier, more visually arresting aesthetic that differentiates it from its Porsche counterpart, despite their shared underpinnings.
And let’s not forget the color options. While many manufacturers stick to a predictable palette of silvers and grays, Audi offers more expressive choices. Imagine the RS e-tron GT cloaked in Tactical Green Metallic, paired with a rich Santos Brown leather interior. It’s a combination that speaks volumes about Audi’s commitment to individuality and style. This dedication to design excellence solidifies the Audi RS e-tron GT as a leader in electric vehicle design.
The Thrill of the Drive: More Than Just Numbers
Beyond its striking aesthetics, the Audi RS e-tron GT truly shines when you’re behind the wheel. While the standard e-tron GT delivers a respectable 469 horsepower, the RS variant cranks that up to a formidable 590 hp, with a temporary boost mode pushing it to 637 hp. Officially, Audi claims a 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. Yes, several of its competitors boast quicker 0-60 mph times on paper. The Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance, with its 1,050 hp, clocks in at a blistering 2.6 seconds, matching the Porsche Taycan Turbo. The Tesla Model S Plaid, with its mind-bending 1,020 hp, claims a staggering 1.99 seconds. Even the Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan lags slightly behind at 3.4 seconds.
However, as any seasoned driver knows, raw numbers don’t always translate to real-world performance. The Audi RS e-tron GT, along with the Porsche Taycan, possesses a unique advantage: a two-speed transmission. Unlike the single-speed units found in the Lucid, Tesla, and Mercedes-AMG, the two-speed gearbox provides superior acceleration across a wider range of speeds.
While the single-speed EVs may offer explosive initial acceleration, their performance tends to taper off as speeds increase. The Audi RS e-tron GT’s two-speed transmission allows it to maintain its ferocious acceleration even at highway speeds, making the real-world driving experience feel remarkably potent. This makes the Audi RS e-tron GT a top contender for best performance EV.
Handling Prowess: A Grand Tourer with a Sporty Soul
The Audi RS e-tron GT’s handling is where it truly distinguishes itself from the competition. Despite its shared platform with the Porsche Taycan, Audi has engineered the RS e-tron GT to offer a distinct driving character. While it shares the same fundamental structure, the Audi RS e-tron GT utilizes an adaptive air suspension system meticulously tuned for greater compliance than the Porsche’s setup. This results in a more comfortable ride, making the Audi RS e-tron GT a more enjoyable daily driver.
This isn’t to say that the Audi RS e-tron GT is a slouch in the corners. Far from it. When you unleash it on a winding back road, you’ll discover a 5,100-pound sedan that grips, turns, and stops with the poise of a supercar. While it might not be as razor-sharp as a Taycan Turbo, it remains remarkably balanced, instilling confidence as you navigate tight bends and effortlessly deploy its power on the exit.
My test vehicle was equipped with the optional (and pricey at $7,100) carbon-ceramic brakes. While a significant investment, these brakes proved their worth during spirited runs through canyon roads, providing consistent and fade-free stopping power, essential for a car of this weight and performance.
The Range Question: A Potential Compromise
Now for the elephant in the room: range. The Audi RS e-tron GT draws its power from a 93.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack, which the EPA estimates to provide a range of 238 miles. This figure trails behind many of its direct competitors. For comparison, the Lucid Air boasts an impressive 446-mile range, while the Tesla Model S and Mercedes-AMG EQS offer 396 and 277 miles, respectively.
For owners with home charging capabilities, the Audi RS e-tron GT’s range might not be a major concern. However, for those who frequently embark on longer journeys, it could be a limiting factor, especially considering how quickly the RS e-tron GT consumes electrons when driven with enthusiasm. While its competitors also experience a drop in range during spirited driving, their larger battery packs offer a greater buffer against range anxiety.
On the plus side, the Audi RS e-tron GT boasts a rapid charging capability, thanks to its 800-volt architecture and peak charging rate of 270 kW. This allows it to replenish its battery from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 80 minutes at a compatible DC fast-charging station.
Pricing and Value: Where Does It Stand?
The 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT starts at $145,395, including a $1,495 destination charge. However, as with most high-end vehicles, the price can quickly escalate with optional extras. My test vehicle, equipped with the aforementioned ceramic brakes, a $6,450 carbon performance package, and a $5,350 full leather interior package, stickered at a substantial $164,890.
For context, a similarly equipped Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance would set you back around $163,500, while a comparable Mercedes-AMG EQS comes in at approximately $164,140. The Tesla Model S Plaid, even when fully optioned, often undercuts its rivals thanks to occasional discounts.
This puts the Audi RS e-tron GT in a competitive position from a pricing standpoint. However, the question remains: is it the ultimate six-figure, high-performance EV to own in 2025?
The Verdict: An Emotional Choice
Ultimately, the Audi RS e-tron GT’s appeal comes down to individual priorities. For the data-driven EV enthusiast obsessed with the quickest 0-60 mph time and the longest possible range, the Audi RS e-tron GT may fall short of the Lucid Air’s range and speed or the Tesla Model S Plaid’s compelling value proposition.
However, for the discerning driver who values an engaging driving experience above all else, the Audi RS e-tron GT presents a compelling case. It may not boast the segment’s longest range or quickest acceleration, but it delivers something arguably more important: a visceral thrill behind the wheel. Cars in this price range should be emotional purchases, not just practical ones. With its head-turning looks, exhilarating performance, and a finely tuned chassis, the Audi RS e-tron GT remains a strong contender in the high-performance EV arena. At the end of the day, there’s more to a car than just the numbers.
Ready to experience the electrifying performance of the Audi RS e-tron GT for yourself? Contact your local Audi dealer today to schedule a test drive and discover if it’s the perfect EV for your needs and driving style. Don’t forget to explore available Audi financing options and electric vehicle tax credits to make your dream car a reality.
