Audi RS5 2012 prices revealed

* Audi RS5 updated for 2012 * Improved efficiency; cosmetic tweaks * On sale now, deliveries from April...

Audi RS5 2012 prices revealed

The latest Audi RS5 performance model has been launched to complete the 2012 A5 line-up.

The 2012 Audi RS5 gets the same cosmetic enhancements as the rest of the range, including wraparound LED daytime running lights, sharper bonnet contours, a mildly tweaked grille and new front and rear bumpers. In addition, the RS5 comes equipped with new 19-inch alloys.

The interior gains a host of equipment as standard, including Bluetooth, cruise control, DVD satellite-navigation and iPod connectivity, while radar-activated cruise control is a no-cost option. Further changes include a new flat-bottomed steering wheel and detail improvements to the dashboard switchgear.

Under the bonnet, the RS5 remains much the same. The 4.2 V8 delivers 450bhp, with a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds. Economy has been marginally improved, with an average of 26.9mpg, while CO2 emissions are reduced by 5g/km to 246g/km.

The revised version includes new electromechanical power steering to improve efficiency, although the seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddles remains the same.

Dynamic Ride Control is no longer standard, but is part of a 2250 Sport Package, which also adds a sports exhaust, Dynamic Steering and 20-inch, titanium-effect alloy wheels.

Prices for the RS5 are unchanged, and start at 58,725. The 2012 RS5 is on sale now, with first deliveries in April.

Dan Alcock