Like the Taycan, the latest E-Tron GT’s range has vastly improved over that of the prior model, thanks in large part to a lighter and larger battery with improved chemistry and cooling; it’s now EPA-rated for 278 miles of range. Interestingly, in our range testing, we recorded 294 miles, one of the few vehicles we’ve tested to date that has bested the EPA numbers. Audi also substantially improved the car’s peak charging speed to 320 kilowatts.

Our test vehicle came sprayed in a striking red paint scheme that augmented its modern shape, contrasted by an interior heavy on black and gray and trimmed in leather, suede, and forged carbon fiber. Unlike the Taycan GT, the Audi has physical buttons for functions such as climate control, which opens more space on the center console. We also appreciate little touches like air vents that you can adjust without having to use a digital menu. Speaking of digital menus, the E-Tron GT’s on-screen graphics could use some sprucing up, especially when compared to the slick new package of its 2026 Audi A6 stablemate.

One of the E-Tron GT’s more novel features is its active damper control suspension, which raises the car when you open the door to make it easier to get in and out. Judges were divided on whether that’s actually helpful or just a neat party trick. To be truly helpful, it would need to spring up immediately when any door is opened; there were times when it took a few beats for it to activate.

Audi’s RS E-Tron GT Performance Is Criminally Underrated

The most powerful Audi deserves Porsche-level credit.Alisa PriddleWriterWilliam WalkerPhotographer

Oct 09, 2025

Pros

• Porsche Taycan–level performance
• Improved range, charging speed
• Sexy shape

Cons

• No one-pedal drive
• Interior not befitting high price
• Screen graphics need upgrade

Audi has come a long way since the debut of its first E-Tron electric vehicle. Case in point: the 2026 RS E-Tron GT Performance. The four-door tourer is an electric-propelled rocket that delivers blistering acceleration at any speed, with a massive 912 horsepower emanating from its dual motors, aided further by a newly redesigned rear motor. The power is breathtaking.

How much breath does it take? “This car rewrites your perspective of fast acceleration,” associate editor Billy Rehbock said of a car we clocked at 2.2 seconds to hit 60 mph. Features editor Scott Evans, who feels Audi’s most powerful car to date is as good as the Porsche Taycan without getting the credit, calls it “criminally underrated.”

Like the Taycan, the latest E-Tron GT’s range has vastly improved over that of the prior model, thanks in large part to a lighter and larger battery with improved chemistry and cooling; it’s now EPA-rated for 278 miles of range. Interestingly, in our range testing, we recorded 294 miles, one of the few vehicles we’ve tested to date that has bested the EPA numbers. Audi also substantially improved the car’s peak charging speed to 320 kilowatts.

Our test vehicle came sprayed in a striking red paint scheme that augmented its modern shape, contrasted by an interior heavy on black and gray and trimmed in leather, suede, and forged carbon fiber. Unlike the Taycan GT, the Audi has physical buttons for functions such as climate control, which opens more space on the center console. We also appreciate little touches like air vents that you can adjust without having to use a digital menu. Speaking of digital menus, the E-Tron GT’s on-screen graphics could use some sprucing up, especially when compared to the slick new package of its 2026 Audi A6 stablemate.

One of the E-Tron GT’s more novel features is its active damper control suspension, which raises the car when you open the door to make it easier to get in and out. Judges were divided on whether that’s actually helpful or just a neat party trick. To be truly helpful, it would need to spring up immediately when any door is opened; there were times when it took a few beats for it to activate.

Given this is an Audi RS model, we expected a stiff ride, but it didn’t feel overly harsh. The car is ridiculously quick and planted on a twisty road, aided by an adaptive suspension that virtually eliminates squat, dive, and body roll. One caveat: The brakes didn’t exactly inspire a huge amount of confidence that they’d provide enough stopping power in a hairy situation.

The E-Tron GT’s sexy roofline means that rear headroom is compromised some, but honestly, the look is worth it. The trunk opening is on the small side, but it also comes with a frunk. Weirdly, though, the button to open said frunk is on the driver door panel where it can only be accessed with the door open.

So yes, it has some minor flaws, and yes, it’s expensive, but the E-Tron GT truly is Audi at its best, EV or otherwise—with power, personality, and performance for days.

This review was conducted as part of our 2026 Car of the Year (COTY) testing, where each vehicle is evaluated on our six key criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function. Eligible vehicles must be all-new or significantly revised.