Volkswagen Group rolls out new Audi RS Q5 prototype amid major restructuring plan

Audi, the premium brand of the Volkswagen Group, has released footage of a prototype RS Q5 hybrid SUV. The model features widened bodywork, dual oval exhausts and a 630‑horsepower plug‑in hybrid powertrain, marking the first RS‑badged Audi Sport SUV. The prototype joins other upcoming models such as the SQ9 and a next‑generation RS6.

At the same time, Volkswagen announced a sweeping restructuring that could cut up to 100,000 jobs worldwide and shut four German plants, including Audi’s Neckarsulm factory, by 2030. The plan aims to offset a 20 % rise in production costs and growing competition from Chinese manufacturers. The restructuring would involve ending production of several less‑profitable models and possibly reallocating Chinese‑market vehicles to under‑used German facilities.

Both developments reflect the group's strategy to reduce costs, streamline its model range and invest in high‑performance, electrified models while confronting a challenging market environment.