Audi RS5 Competition: A Decade Later, the Driver Finally Takes Center Stage
For nearly ten years, the Audi RS5 has occupied a peculiar niche in the automotive landscape. It’s a car that has consistently delivered blistering performance, a hallmark of the Audi Sport division, yet often felt like a passenger in its own impressive capabilities. As an automotive industry veteran with a decade immersed in the nuances of performance vehicles, I’ve observed this trend firsthand. While the RS5, in both its coupe and Sportback guises, has always possessed the raw power to embarrass sportier, more expensive machinery, its execution frequently prioritized effortless speed over genuine driver exhilaration. The thrill of a rapid backroad blast was often muted, a sensation of immense velocity felt more than truly experienced by the person gripping the steering wheel.
This brings us to the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. While the nomenclature might hint at a standalone model, it’s crucial to understand this iteration as the Audi RS5 Coupe, enhanced by the significantly impactful $16,100 Competition package. This distinction is vital, especially when considering the prevailing trends in the premium performance segment, where even established players often employ similar naming conventions. Despite its German engineering roots, the philosophy behind this enhanced RS5 is refreshingly focused: take the already potent 444-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 engine, a familiar powerhouse, and couple it with a meticulously revised chassis. This includes manually adjustable coilover suspension for ultimate tunability, beefed-up sway bars to minimize body roll, a dramatically quicker steering ratio, and an exhaust system that finally lives up to the car’s performance aspirations.
The result of this strategic enhancement is more than just an agile and stable machine at high velocities. Crucially, the Competition package injects a vital dose of road feel and feedback, forging a profound connection between the driver, the car, and the asphalt beneath. After six model years of its second generation, this potent Audi performance coupe has finally reached its zenith, delivering an experience that’s as engaging as it is rapid. This isn’t just an incremental upgrade; it’s a transformation that elevates the Audi RS5 Competition to a new echelon of driver involvement.
The Genesis of Engagement: Unpacking the Competition Package
For a substantial investment of $16,100, the Competition package bestows upon the RS5 a suite of desirable upgrades. Chief among these are the potent carbon-ceramic brakes, promising unwavering stopping power, and the track-tuned coilover suspension, offering granular control over ride height and damping. Enhanced sport sway bars contribute to a flatter cornering stance, while the RS sport exhaust system provides the auditory drama that the standard RS5 often lacked.
Beyond the mechanical enhancements, the visual modifications are equally purposeful. A carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser lend an aggressive aerodynamic presence, while the striking 20-inch Y-spoke wheels not only enhance aesthetics but also showcase the formidable braking hardware. Inside, the cabin receives a significant uplift with Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats, designed to provide superior lateral support. Complementing this is an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, a tactile upgrade that immediately signals a heightened driving focus. While this extensive list doesn’t capture every single detail, it unequivocally demonstrates that the hefty price tag of the Competition package is justified by the tangible benefits and premium materials it delivers, making it a strong contender for best Audi RS5 upgrades.
Power and Performance: Familiar Heart, Sharper Soul
It’s important to note that the core power output of the RS5 remains unchanged. The potent 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 continues to deliver a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While this figure might seem modest when directly compared to competitors like the BMW M4 Competition (503 hp) or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63 (503 hp), it’s crucial to emphasize that in real-world driving scenarios, the RS5 feels every bit as rapid. Its 0-60 mph acceleration remains a swift 3.8 seconds, but the Competition package unlocks a significantly higher top speed. It can now reach an exhilarating 180 mph, a full 25 mph over the standard car and an impressive six miles per hour beyond models equipped with the Dynamic Plus package. This enhanced top-end capability, combined with the chassis improvements, makes the Audi RS5 Competition price justifiable for those seeking ultimate performance.
On the Edge: Where the Competition Package Truly Shines
The true magic of the Competition package reveals itself the moment you venture onto a winding backroad. From the initial turn of the wheel into a sweeping bend, the transformation is palpable. The coilover suspension, while noticeably firmer, exerts remarkable control over the RS5’s considerable mass (nearly 3,900 pounds). This allows for instant directional changes with an absence of the unwanted body roll that could plague the standard model. This newfound agility is further amplified by the quicker steering ratio. While it doesn’t offer an abundance of granular road feedback, its precision is unprecedented, enabling the driver to place the car with pinpoint accuracy.
The sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, paired with a recalibrated eight-speed automatic transmission, work in concert with the suspension advancements. This potent combination translates into impressive mid-corner grip. As you exit a bend, the RS5 is now effortlessly capable of deploying its substantial power, propelling you forward with exhilarating urgency. While the base RS5 is undeniably capable, the Competition’s firmer chassis provides a far more communicative experience. It allows the driver to not only witness its immense pace but to truly feel it, creating a more immersive and rewarding driving dynamic. For enthusiasts seeking a genuine performance car upgrade, the Audi RS5 Competition package is a clear frontrunner.
A Pragmatic Evolution: Daily Comfort Meets Track Prowess
Despite the significant tightening of its suspension – now 0.39 inches (10 mm) lower and considerably firmer – the RS5 Competition surprisingly doesn’t sacrifice its daily comfort and usability. This observation speaks volumes about the standard RS5, which, in its pursuit of refinement, sometimes felt almost too plush for a vehicle positioned as Audi’s most engaging A5 variant. The Competition package, however, achieves a commendable equilibrium. It strikes a perfect balance, functioning as a thoroughly capable sports car for weekend escapades and a comfortable, refined commuter for the Monday-to-Friday grind. This blend of performance and practicality is a key selling point for those considering performance Audi models.
The Sound of Speed: An Exhaust Note Worthy of the Badges
One of the most welcome changes brought about by the Competition package is the reduction in sound-deadening material. This deliberate decision synergizes beautifully with the addition of the aggressively tuned RS sport exhaust. While the increased intrusion of road and tire noise into the cabin might be a point of contention for some, it’s an essential component of a thrilling sports car experience. Gone are the days when Audi had to artificially pump engine noise through the speakers to compensate for excessive refinement. Now, the authentic, throaty growl of the V6 engine, punctuated by explosive upshifts, is the soundtrack to your drive. And for those moments when discretion is preferred, the selectable drive modes allow you to dial the exhaust note up or down accordingly. This auditory enhancement is a significant factor in the overall appeal of the Audi RS5 Competition lease options for those who prioritize sensory engagement.
An Interior That Commands Attention
As previously mentioned, the Competition package introduces a selection of sporty accoutrements to the RS5’s cabin. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are a highlight, featuring a distinctive Lamborghini-esque hexagonal stitch pattern. Gloss black trim accents and embroidered backrests add to the premium feel. Crucially, these seats offer excellent lateral support thanks to their inflatable bolsters, ensuring you remain securely planted during spirited driving, while still providing ample comfort for longer journeys.
The Alcantara steering wheel is a tactile delight, and its presence extends to the headliner and carbon-fiber trimmed dashboard. Unlike the sometimes overwrought glossy finishes found in competitors like the BMW M4, Audi opts for a more understated, elegant matte finish for its carbon fiber, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the dark, sophisticated interior ambiance. This meticulous attention to detail in the Audi RS5 interior design further enhances the premium feel.
Subtle Style, Potent Presence: The Exterior Appeal
Visually, the changes differentiating the Audi RS5 Competition from its standard counterpart are subtle rather than overt. The package effectively bundles desirable options like the carbon-fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, which were previously available as standalone additions. Gloss black badging and trim provide a darker, more aggressive aesthetic. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are elegantly proportioned and offer a clear view of the massive carbon-ceramic brakes, a testament to the car’s performance focus. While some might wish for more dramatic visual cues, given the model’s age, Audi’s approach prioritizes a sophisticated, understated aggression that complements the car’s timeless design. This aesthetic restraint is a hallmark of the Audi RS5 Coupe and its variants.
On the positive side, the second-generation Audi RS5 continues to age gracefully. Despite its debut in the 2017 model year, its elegant and timeless design ensures it remains contemporary and attractive. While it may not possess the overtly flashy or boisterous styling of some of its German rivals, it undoubtedly stands as the most elegantly designed option within its segment. This enduring design is a significant draw for those considering a luxury performance coupe.
The Double-Edged Sword of Time: A Phenomenal Package, Late to the Party?
The primary point of contention surrounding the RS5 Competition is its timing. While the Competition package is unequivocally a game-changer, drastically improving the car’s driving dynamics, its arrival so late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle raises a pertinent question: Will a significantly enhanced driving experience be enough to entice buyers towards a model that, visually, bears a striking resemblance to its 2017 predecessor? This is a crucial consideration for anyone researching new Audi RS5 models.
The $16,100 price tag for the Competition package, while substantial, represents significant value given the extent of the improvements. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe starts at $78,995, including destination fees. My test vehicle, further equipped with the optional RS driver assistance package ($3,000) and navigation package ($1,500), pushed the total to a commanding $100,565. This positions the RS5 firmly in premium territory, a price point that, in the past, might have been harder to justify solely on driving engagement.
While a six-figure Audi based on the A5 platform remains a significant investment, its pricing is now directly competitive with a fully loaded BMW M4. Although official U.S. pricing for the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 has yet to be announced, it is highly anticipated to land at or above this figure. Consequently, the Audi RS5 now commands a premium sum, but crucially, its long-awaited engaging driving experience finally justifies the price of admission. For those exploring performance car financing in this segment, the RS5 Competition presents a compelling, albeit premium, option.
The Verdict: The RS5 Finally Delivers the Drive
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is, in essence, the car I’ve always wished the RS5 had been. It is undeniably fast, remarkably agile, and, most importantly, deeply engaging. It masterfully combines the brute force of the standard car with an immersive driving experience that was previously out of reach. Despite its firmer chassis, it remarkably retains its daily comfort and usability. And with less intrusive sound-deadening, you’re treated to the full, visceral V6 soundtrack without any synthetic augmentation.
Viewed in isolation, the Competition package-equipped Audi RS5 stands as a formidable rival to the already excellent BMW M4. However, the car’s age cannot be overlooked. Even with these latest updates that finally transform the RS5 from merely a quick car into a genuinely engaging driver’s machine, the lingering question remains: will buyers recognize this significant evolution, or is this brilliant driver’s car a case of too little, too late? The answer will determine the ultimate legacy of this exceptional, driver-focused evolution of the Audi RS5.
If you’re ready to experience the future of Audi performance and discover if the RS5 Competition is the perfect fit for your driving desires, we invite you to explore available models at your local Audi dealership or connect with a performance specialist today to schedule a test drive and feel the difference firsthand.
