e-Tron GT: Audi’s Flagship Dethroning the R8 When Audi announced the iconic R8’s days were numbered, many lamented the end of such a specialised flagship. But four years ago, the e-Tron GT arrived—a sleek and stylish grand tourer that made the R8 look like it was from the 19th century.Handcrafted at the same Böllinger Höfe plant where the R8 was built, the e-Tron GT now sits atop Audi’s lineup. Especially the 634 horsepower RS e-Tron GT, which has outpowered the R8 for the last three years. The range was recently refreshed with a new look and upgraded electric motors, boosting the battery capacity to 97kWh. Together, these updates make the three new e-Tron GT models the most powerful cars in Audi’s 115-year history. RS e-Tron GT Performance: Supercar Killer The king of the fleet is the RS e-Tron GT Performance. Its dual permanent-magnet synchronous motors produce an almost ungodly 925 horsepower and 753 lb-ft of torque. The car is even fitted with a push-to-pass setup. This gives an additional 93 horsepower at brief moments, leading to a combined total output of 1,018 horsepower.The result is 0-62 mph in 2.5 seconds, making this GT saloon faster than a Ferrari 296 GTB. The rear motor, in particular, is an engineering marvel. Its advanced hairpin winding and reduced weight, result in even more power while shedding unnecessary kilos. But the Performance isn’t about humiliating supercars in a straight line. The car is fitted with Audi’s bespoke RS Performance Mode, which optimizes torque, anti-slip control, and aerodynamics. Combined with the active suspension, the RS e-Tron GT corners with immense grip and precision. However, as petrolheads, the lack of sound from an electric motor is a huge detriment to the overall experience. Audi clearly understands this, so they’ve fitted the Performance with an enhanced e-Tron Sport sound system. The result is a hum of synthetic sporty noises to remind the driver that they are piloting a supercar-crushing weapon. An All-Rounder in Every Respect The RS e-Tron GT Performance isn’t just an outright speed machine—it’s also a technological marvel. It features an adapted Thermal Management system. Four interconnected coolant circuits work in harmony. This ensures that both the electric motors and the high-voltage battery remain within optimal operating temperatures. Enhanced charging capabilities of up to 320 kW allow the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. This grants an impressive range of up to 590 miles.The Performance is also capable of being a mile-crunching, smooth, and comfortable GT. This is largely thanks to its active suspension system. This features innovative 2-chamber/2-valve technology and RS1/RS2 drive modes, which fine-tune the suspension settings. Specialised high-performance tires made from 55% renewable or recycled materials offer improved grip, reduced rolling resistance, and quietness on the road. So when you’re not in the mood for showing up supercars, you can quietly eat away the miles in supreme comfort. Costly Options and RivalsFor such a powerful yet capable all-rounder, the RS e-Tron GT Performance is surprisingly well-priced. Starting at a very reasonable $180,000. However, as with any modern performance car, the price is really determined by how many options you choose to add. And boy, does this car have options. You can choose from several colours for both the interior and exterior, such as a Bedford Green exterior complemented by a Serpentine Green stitching package inside. Optional carbon camouflage elements, include a carbon roof and matte carbon inlays. But why anyone would spend extra to fit a bit of carbon fibre to this 2.9-tonne monster seems fatuous.When it comes to rivals, the RS e-Tron GT Performance faces some stiff competition. Its sister car, the Porsche Taycan Turbo S, the Lucid Air Dream Edition, and, if you’re a believer that Elon Musk is the next messiah the Tesla Model S. Which of these refined EV supercar killers is the best? We here at F1rstMotors hope to provide you with a solid verdict very soon. Conclusion: An Icon for AudiThe e-Tron GT has made its mark, becoming as iconic as the R8 and Quattro. With the RS Performance variant now Audi’s most powerful car ever, it’s a game-changer in the brand’s 111-year history. F1rstMotors Facts and FiguresManufacturerAudi AGModelRS e–Tron GT PerformanceYear of Release2024EngineFour 97kWh Electric MotorsHorsepower925hp (1018 with Push to Pass)Torque753 lb–ft0–62mph (100km/h)2.5 secondsTop Speed155mph (250 km/h)Weight2,860kg (2.9 tonnes)Power to Weight319 hp per tonneGearbox2 speed transmissionDriven WheelsAll Wheel DrivePrice$180,000RivalsPorsche Taycan Turbo S, Lucid Air Dream Edition, Tesla Model S, Mercedes EQE
