A HIGH performance Audi coupe is to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show - 30 years after the original quattro made its debut at the Swiss auto salon.

The V8 powered RS5 Coupe will go on sale in October priced in the region of £58,500.

With a 0 to 60mph acceleration time of 4.6 seconds, the RS5 has near supercar performance.

Its 4.2-litre FSI engine develops 450bhp with a top speed limited to 155mph. Despite the performance Audi claims the RS5 will average more than 26mpg.

A new version of Audi's seven speed dual clutch transmission will be used in the RS5 while the quattro four wheel drive system features a new centre differential to improve traction.

The new set up can transfer up to 70 per cent of the drive to the front wheels or as much as 85 per cent to the rear.  In standard configuration the RS5 has a 40:60 front/rear power ratio.

A sport differential is fitted as standard to the rear axle to further enhance the car's handling.

The RS5 will be fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels and sits almost an inch lower than the A5 on which it is based. Larger wheels will be available as an option

The car will make its debut on the opening day of the Geneva show on March 2 and although prices are still to be confirmed Audi will be taking orders for the newcomer from the moment it is unveiled.