By Nauman Farooq

A couple of years ago, Audi launched a version of their popular A4 sedan that had a bit of a split personality, normally docile, but at times very excited also.

Audi RS 5

No, not the S4, but something even meaner.

It was called the RS4, and it caused many sleepless nights for its opposition. The RS4 had 420 hp while its main rivals from Mercedes-Benz and BMW were hardly putting out 350 hp at the time.

Audi also coupled its fantastic new engine with its famous quattro all-wheel drive system, and the result was a car that could outpace almost anything on the road.

But there was a problem, it lacked sex-appeal. While the RS4 looked good with its beefed up body kit, it was still a four-door sedan, and sedans just aren’t as sexy as coupe’s.

So if you were interested in the RS4 but wanted something with much more style, your prayers have just been answered, because at the 2010 Geneva Auto Salon, Audi has launched their new RS5 coupe.

The RS5 retains that familiar 4.2-liter, V8 (which is also the base engine for the R8 supercar), but has now given it direct-injection, and tweaked it to produce even more power. At 8250 rpm, this motor now produces 450 hp. Maximum torque output is 317 lb/ft, available between 4000 rpm and 6000 rpm.

All that power equates to a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to either 250 km/h or 280 km/h, depending on how you spec it.

As usual, power goes to all-wheels through their latest quattro system. This new system sends 60% of the power to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions, but when pushed, it can send up to 70% of the power to the front wheels or 85% to the rear wheels. No need to worry about the torque split, as this cars computer figures it all out for you.

Another computer controlled feature is its new seven-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission. This system is capable of incredibly quick gear changes, and is fantastic for when pushing the car on a track, but if you like to change gears yourself, then you will have to look elsewhere, because sadly no manual gearbox is offered.

Audi hasn’t confirmed if this new RS5 will be available in Canada. But if you like the idea of having an RS5 in your garage, please call Audi Canada and bug them until they bring them over. European sales for the RS5 begin later this year.