Audi A5: Unwrapping the TT's big brother

We found another nice review of the most beautiful car ever by Audi, the Audi A5. Big news here: an Audi RS5 is going to come in late 2008! Great news.

Top-spec models will be available with Audi's electro-magnetic dampers, along with the quattro four-wheel-drive system. This combination will also be used for the S5 performance car.

Entry-level machines will remain front-wheel drive, though, while most versions will be offered with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. There will be the option of the marque's eight-speed Multitronic sequential gearbox, too.

Engine options include 177bhp and 211bhp variants of the 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged petrol unit. Completing the unleaded line-up will be a 265bhp 3.2-litre V6, while the diesel range will include a 170bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI, plus 190bhp 2.7 TDI and 238bhp 3.0 TDI V6s.

Meanwhile, the hot S5 stands out thanks to a grille with chrome slats, plus flared wheelarches, body skirts and five-spoke alloys. A 350bhp 4.2-litre V8 gives it enough muscle to cover 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 155mph.

With modified suspension, uprated brakes and the electro-magnetic dampers - as well as a sporty cabin with bucket seats - the S5 will be well equipped to rein in its considerable punch. Priced at around £55,000, it should be on sale later this year.

However, the S5 won't be the last word in performance. An even faster £70,000 RS5 will arrive in late 2008, fitted with a 420bhp version of the same V8 - as seen in the RS4.