Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.Audi is positioned as the tech-forward, yet understated alternative to other premium luxury automakers. Its models often set the standards for stylish design and cutting-edge technology, and with the recent departure of its mid-engined R8 supercar, the new flagship is now an all-electric sedan, that also happens to be the most powerful and quickest Audi ever.This model is the Audi RS e-tron GT performance. Representing the pinnacle of Audi's engineering, this high-performance electric grand tourer is taking Audi into the next decade thanks to a list of advanced features that place it among the world's most sophisticated and expensive EVs.The Audi RS e-tron GT performanceKyle EdwardView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articleAdvertisementAdvertisementModel Years: 2025 onRivals:Tesla Model S Plaid, Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, Lucid Air Sapphire.The RS e-tron GT performance is the flagship electric offering in Audi's lineup, and while the Q4 e-tron and Q6 e-tron SUVs serve the higher volume EV market, the RS e-tron is purely here to demonstrate what is possible when cost is a secondary concern.Audi is keen to take all the credit for its technical marvel, but it's actually the result of a close collaboration with Porsche. Built on the J1 electric platform, it is to most intents a rebodied Porsche Taycan. The styling, aerodynamics and interior design were developed independently to instill each model with its marque's specific styling language, but the electric motors, battery tech and electrical architecture are one and the same.That's no bad thing though, after all, the R8 was essentially a Lamborghini Huracan in disguise, and the iconic 1990s RS2 Avant had plenty of input from Porsche. Its best to think of the RS e-tron GT performance as a (slightly) more affordable version of the Taycan, with looks that are, subjectively anyway, way more pleasing to the eye.The Audi RS e-tron GT Performance in DetailCole AttishaView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articleBase MSRP$170,500EngineDual permanently excited synchronous electric motors (PSM)PowerUp to 912 hp (with launch control/overboost engaged)0–60 mph2.4 secondsFuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined)85 / 82 / 84 MPGeEstimated Range278 milesWhile the e-tron GT has been around since 2022, the entire range got a refresh in 2025, and the RS e-tron GT performance you see here is all-new. Fitted with an electric motor on both axles, the e-tron GT develops up to 912-hp when launch control is engaged, which allows it to blast to 60mph in a mega 2.4 seconds. In normal driving, you get approximately 730-hp, which is still more than most non-race car drivers should be allowed to access.AdvertisementAdvertisementA 105-kWh battery pack is standard, and allows for an EPA estimated 278 miles of driving between charges. Not class-leading, but it can go from 10 to 80 percent charge in as little as 18 minutes using a 320-kW DC fast charger.At this price point, outright EV efficiency is less important than the performance potential, and the e-tron GT is capable of speeds that no Audi has achieved before. And unlike the previous fastest Audi, which was a mid-engined V10 two-seater, this model is packed with luxurious features and will seat four adults in comfort. It comes fitted with many advanced features as standard, including adaptive air suspension, carbide brakes, e-torque vectoring plus, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system.Optional ExtrasKyle EdwardFor customers that want something a little different, there are nine exterior colors to choose from, as well as five interior colors, but there are several design packages and performance-enhancing features on offer as well. Here are some of the most notable:OptionPriceDynamic plus package (ceramic brakes, active damper control)$11,000Forged Carbon Package$5,900RS Performance Design Package - Green$1,900Total Cost of Optional Extras$19,395Final Vehicle Price (Base MSRP + Options + $1,295 Dest Charge)$191,190The total price once you factor in additional taxes and potential dealer markups can reach close to $200,000.RivalsLucidView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articleModelAudi RS e-tron GT performanceTesla Model S PlaidPorsche Taycan Turbo GTLucid Air SapphireBase MSRP$170,500$60,000 - $90,000 est$246,050$249,000EngineDual PSM Electric MotorsTri-Motor Electric SetupDual PSM Electric MotorsTri-Motor Electric SetupPower912 hp1,020 hp1,019 hp1,234 hp0–60 mph2.4 seconds1.99 seconds2.2 seconds1.89 secondsEstimated Range278 miles368 miles276 miles427 milesThe Tesla Model S Plaid may no longer be available to buy new, but it remains the price/performance leader in this group. It never had the ultra-luxurious interior or build quality of the Audi, but it delivered a level of performance for its price that nothing else has come close to matching. It isn't quite as capable when pushed on track as some rivals, but it does cost less than half as much. Nearly new used models are still available, and the EPA estimated 368 miles of range still betters many newer rivals.AdvertisementAdvertisementSharing its core 800V architecture and platform with the Audi, the Taycan Turbo GT is Porsche's track-focused weapon. It commands a heavy premium over the Audi, and offers much better track capabilities and slightly better overall performance, but the $186,950 871-hp Taycan Turbo is a closer match in pricing albeit with slightly less straight-line performance.For the ultimate in four-door EV performance, the Lucid Air Sapphire rules the roost. It is more powerful and quicker than the other vehicles here but costs a hefty $78,500 more than the Audi. While the Lucid's ridiculous 0-60mph time is best sampled in the confines of a dragstrip, the 427-miles of predicted range is what you'll appreciate on a more regular basis.The ultra-luxury EV sedan market is a tricky segment, filled with overpriced overachievers that tend to depreciate faster than they accelerate. Technology and consumer tastes change quickly, and as most buyers are not all that fussed about running costs, mega performance capability and futuristic features are what they are after.Kyle EdwardThe Audi RS e-tron GT performance offers plenty of both. Whether it is a worthy alternative to its equally impressive rivals is a decision for someone who has the thick end of $200,000 to spend on their next ride. For most people, cars like this range-topping Audi represent what to expect from future mainstream models, and from that viewpoint, the Audi RS e-tron GT performance is a very exciting car indeed.AdvertisementAdvertisementData Sources:All vehicle data, pricing figures, and technical specifications were sourced from the official manufacturer websites.Pricing figures represent the base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and exclude destination charges, and taxes.This story was originally published by Autoblog on Jun 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the Features section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.