Audi RS e-tron GT
Performance dual-motor with 475 kW on the J1 platform. RS version of the e-tron GT with Launch Control up to 646 PS (overboost). Brutal acceleration under 3.3 seconds to 100 km/h.
The fastest GT Audi has ever built — electric
The RS e-tron GT puts 475 kW on the J1 platform it shares with the Taycan — Audi tuned it more comfort-oriented than the Porsche. That's not a flaw, it's a deliberate choice. 0–100 in under 3.5 seconds, all-wheel drive, adaptive chassis, ceramic brakes standard. Comparing it to the Taycan Turbo S is pointless: both are exceptional. The RS e-tron GT is the more refined pick — slightly softer in steering, slightly more comfortable. Not a V8 experience, but a character all of its own.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Identical issue to the e-tron GT quattro: possible short circuits in battery modules with fire risk. RS e-tron GT MY 2020–2024 affected. Software update for monitoring installed.
Symptoms: No direct driver warning symptoms; occasionally battery fault messages. Audi recommends charge limit of 80%.
Same as e-tron GT quattro: front brake hoses can fracture and disable the brake circuit. RS e-tron GT 2020–2024 affected, worldwide recall covering approx. 185,000 J1 vehicles including Taycan.
Symptoms: Extended stopping distance, pressure loss at brake pedal, fluid loss under the vehicle.
The MMI freezes, crashes or boots into engineering mode. Particularly frequently reported on 2022 models. Dealer updates only help temporarily; the problem recurs.
Symptoms: Black or frozen display, no navigation, reversing camera fails, occasional Bluetooth dropouts.
The 475 kW variant with performance-compound tyres shows even higher tyre wear than the base version. A set of tyres costs 1,500–2,500 EUR; service life of 15,000–20,000 km is possible.
Symptoms: Visible wear at front and rear axles after 15,000–20,000 km; significantly earlier with spirited driving.
At low temperatures, the thermal management significantly reduces charging performance. Pre-conditioning via navigation/app is necessary but not always reliable. Winter range 30–40% below WLTP.
Symptoms: Significantly longer charging times in winter, charge power drops off quickly, range indicator strongly reduced.
Vehicle Weaknesses 10
Material failure of front axle brake hoses due to dynamic bending stress at the tightest bend radius. Can lead to brake fluid loss and reduced braking performance. KBA 13998R / manufacturer code 47UP, 35,370 vehicles worldwide, 7,176 in Germany.
Incorrectly sealed high-voltage battery (recalls 93T7 / KBA 013142, 93VN) allows moisture to enter. Short-circuit risk can lead to thermal overload or vehicle fire. Approx. 7,619 vehicles worldwide affected.
Recall 2024 (code 93VN) for model years 2021–2024: cell defect in the high-voltage battery can cause short circuits and fires. Approximately 13,000 RS e-tron GT affected worldwide. Audi recommends a maximum 80% charge level.
Moisture can enter the high-voltage battery through inadequate seals and trigger short circuits. Multiple recall campaigns affect model years 2020–2024. Repair wait times up to 3 months.
Recall affecting RS e-tron GT and Porsche Taycan: possible cracks in front-axle brake hoses. Worldwide recall, over 7,100 Audi vehicles affected in Germany.
On a small number of vehicles (production September 2021) a faulty retaining ring was found in the air spring strut mount bearing. Air can escape and the vehicle sags on one side. NHTSA Case: 22V-927.
Owners report that at HPC chargers (300 kW) only 75–120 kW is often reached instead of the promised 270 kW. Causes are battery temperature management and charging curve optimisation after safety updates.
With predominantly electrical regeneration, the rear brakes are rarely thermally loaded, which promotes rust and uneven wear. Calibration of regeneration strength significantly influences the effect.
Early vehicles suffered from software crashes: rear camera defective after restart, charge port warning messages despite closed lid, navigation errors. Many issues resolved by OTA or dealer updates.
The intensive use of recuperation in the RS e-tron GT means the mechanical brakes are rarely applied, leading to rapid surface rust on the brake discs. Not critical during spirited driving.