The Audi RS e-tron GT Performance, a high-performance electric vehicle with over 900 horsepower, is experiencing rapid depreciation in the US market. Despite its impressive speed and luxury features, unsold units are now being discounted significantly, making it a surprisingly affordable option for buyers who don’t mind the immediate loss of value.
Luxury EVs: A Depreciation Problem?
The RS e-tron GT starts at $170,500, but with options, prices easily exceed $180,000. While the car’s performance—912 hp and 757 lb-ft of torque—justifies the price on paper, consumer behavior suggests otherwise. Classified listings across the US show multiple 2025 and 2026 models with minimal mileage being sold below MSRP.
This isn’t a new trend. High-end EVs often depreciate faster than traditional luxury vehicles due to rapid technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. The RS e-tron GT is no exception; even lightly used models are losing tens of thousands of dollars in value almost immediately.
Deep Discounts in Real Time
Audi Beverly Hills currently lists a 2025 RS e-tron GT with 1,930 miles for $123,993. This car originally cost over $180,000 with a $5,900 forged carbon package. Similarly, Audi Las Vegas offers a 2025 model with just 13 miles for $124,590, a $54,005 discount from its original MSRP of $178,595.
The trend extends to older models as well. Pre-facelift RS e-tron GTs, with up to 637 hp, are now available for under $50,000, suggesting the facelifted version will follow suit. The market is clearly signaling that this electric Audi is losing value as soon as it leaves the dealership.
Why Does This Matter?
The quick depreciation of the RS e-tron GT highlights a broader issue in the luxury EV market: value retention is weak. The rapid pace of innovation in electric vehicles means that newer models quickly overshadow older ones, driving down resale prices. For buyers, this presents an opportunity to acquire a high-performance EV at a substantial discount. However, it also underscores the financial downside of buying a luxury vehicle that loses value faster than the average car.
The RS e-tron GT’s depreciation is a clear indicator that the electric luxury market is not immune to the laws of supply and demand. As technology continues to evolve, expect similar trends in other high-end EVs.
