If you were surprised by the fact that Audi revealed the RS5 Sportback in America first (during the New York Auto Show in late March this year) rather than Europe, wonder no more. The German manufacturer believes the U.S. market has a much greater potential for the performance liftback and is even planning to launch the model on that side of the pond first.

See the original reveal:

Currently available in the United States is only the S5 Sportback, but soon it will be joined by the more hardcore RS5 Sportback. In a new report, Autocar claims the model has been delayed for the UK and other European markets as the manufacturer is prioritising the U.S. According to the publication, that’s necessary because the RS4 and RS6 hot estates are not offered there, and American customers just love the RS5 Sportback.

2019 Audi RS5 Sportback

And what’s not to love about a sexy four-door large hatchback with an awesome 2.9-litre turbocharged V6 under the bonnet. It generates 444 bhp and 443 pound-feet of torque, which are delivered to all four wheels through an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and a permanent Quattro all-wheel drive. Interestingly, Audi uses a good old-fashioned torque converter instead of a modern dual-clutch gearbox.

2019 Audi RS5 Sportback

Even in stock form, the RS5 Sportback is quite quick off the line. From a standstill to 60 mph, it accelerates in less than four seconds and has an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph. If you opt for the Dynamic Plus package, the limiter will be lifted and you’ll be able to hit 174 mph.

Gallery: 2019 Audi RS5 Sportback: First Drive