Rieger Dresses up the Audi A5 like an RS5
The Audi RS5 is coming to the U.S. soon, but not in very big numbers. That’s bad news if you’re a fan of brawny German sport coupes. But what if there was a way to make a regular Audi A5 look nearly as muscular as an RS5? Then the whole limited production thing wouldn’t be quite as problematic, would it?
We’re guessing that’s at least part of the thinking behind Rieger’s new body kit for the facelifted (2012 and up) A5. It doesn’t exactly replicate the RS5’s looks, but considering it doesn’t exactly replicate the RS5’s performance either, does that really matter?
At any rate, the kit replaces the front bumper and grille with a deeper one featuring larger openings and a central carbon fiber splitter, the rear bumper with a unit featuring an integrated diffuser and ovoid exhaust outlets, and rocker panel extensions. A rear spoiler is also available, but in our opinion, the fewer geegaws and appendages affixed to the A5’s sexy shape, the better (yes, we’re looking at you, played-out-five-years-ago fender vents on the white car).
And speaking of that sexy shape, it sits quite a bit closer to the ground thanks to a set of H&R sport springs. And the lower ride height means the 21” Corniche Challenge wheels (wrapped in Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tires) do a better job of filling the wheel wells. And for added bling (and stopping power), Rieger fits the RS5’s brakes.
Sadly, what it doesn’t fit is the kind of power you’d expect to be backing up these asphalt-kicking looks. Don’t get us wrong, there’s nothing particularly bad about the stock A5’s 2.0L turbo inline-four or 3.2L V6. They just don’t serve up the kind of muscle that will make you utter one of the late Mr. Carlin’s seven words when you step on the giddyup pedal. But you know something? Most drivers would get along with the 2.0 TFSI mill’s 210hp just fine in day-to-day driving. And if they ever want more power, there are plenty of other companies out there that can help them get more. But if your first priority is looking cool, then Rieger’s got you covered.
Source: Rieger