The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: A Decadal Refinement for the Engaged Driver
For a decade, the Audi RS5 has occupied a peculiar space in the automotive landscape. It’s consistently been a powerhouse, a machine capable of humbling far more exotic machinery with its sheer velocity. Yet, for all its prodigious output, the prior iterations often felt like a finely tuned instrument played by a conductor who was a bit too hands-off. The experience, while undeniably rapid, often lacked the visceral connection that truly separates a competent performer from an exhilarating one. This perception, however, has taken a significant turn with the arrival of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. This isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a targeted evolution, a decade-in-the-making refinement that finally imbues the RS5 with the driver engagement its performance pedigree has always promised.
For those looking to buy an Audi RS5 Competition, understanding this shift is paramount. It’s the culmination of lessons learned, a direct response to the market’s evolving desires for cars that offer not just speed, but also a tangible sense of connection to the road and the machine. This enhanced Audi RS5 driving experience is the core of what makes this particular iteration stand out.
The distinction is crucial: the “Competition” isn’t a standalone model but rather the result of the extensive, and frankly, transformative $16,100 Competition package applied to the existing RS5 Coupe. While the potent 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine remains unchanged – still delivering a formidable 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque – the true magic lies beneath the surface. This package introduces a host of mechanical upgrades designed to sharpen the RS5’s reflexes and amplify its auditory and tactile feedback. We’re talking about manually adjustable coilover suspension, beefed-up anti-roll bars, a recalibrated steering system, and a decidedly more aggressive exhaust note.
After ten years, the second-generation RS5 platform has finally found its ultimate expression. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most significant improvements don’t come from raw power increases, but from meticulously fine-tuning the dynamics that allow a driver to fully exploit the existing capabilities. For anyone considering a performance coupe 2023 or exploring luxury performance cars, the RS5 Competition demands attention.
Unpacking the Competition Package: More Than Just a Sticker
The $16,100 price tag for the Competition package might seem steep at first glance, but the sheer volume and impact of the included components justify the investment. Beyond the carbon-ceramic brakes, the manually adjustable coilover suspension, and the sportier sway bars, the package also includes a genuine RS sport exhaust system that significantly alters the auditory character of the car.
Visually, the exterior receives subtle yet impactful enhancements. A carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser add aerodynamic presence, while the standard 20-inch Y-spoke wheels not only look aggressive but also provide an unobstructed view of those formidable carbon-ceramic stoppers. Inside, the transformation continues with sport-oriented Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats, designed to offer exceptional bolstering during spirited driving. An Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and headliner complete the race-inspired, yet still luxurious, interior aesthetic. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it paints a clear picture: the Competition package is an all-encompassing upgrade that transforms the RS5 into a decidedly more focused machine.
Despite these significant dynamic enhancements, Audi has wisely resisted the urge to chase horsepower figures that often exist only on paper. The 444 hp V6, while down on paper compared to some rivals like the BMW M4 Competition (which can boast over 500 hp) or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63, is more than sufficient in the real world. The 0-60 mph sprint remains a brisk 3.8 seconds, but the top speed gets a substantial boost to 180 mph, a full 25 mph over the standard RS5 and six miles per hour higher than a model equipped with the Dynamic Plus package. This focus on accessible, real-world performance, rather than outright, often unusable, numbers, is a key aspect of the RS5 Competition’s appeal. For those searching for fast luxury coupes, this blend of potent power and elevated top speed is a compelling proposition.
The Drive: Where Engagement Takes Center Stage
The true revelation of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition unfolds the moment you point its nose towards a winding ribbon of asphalt. The transformation from the competent but somewhat detached previous iterations is immediate and profound. The revised steering, now quicker and more direct, immediately signals a more eager intent. While it might not offer the hyper-detailed feedback of some purist sports cars, it provides a significantly more connected feel, allowing the driver to precisely place the car with confidence.
The firmer coilover suspension, a cornerstone of the Competition package, plays a critical role. Despite the RS5’s considerable weight (approaching 4,000 pounds), body roll is dramatically curtailed. The car hunkers down, responding to steering inputs with an immediacy that was previously absent. This newfound agility, coupled with the wider and stickier Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, results in tenacious mid-corner grip. Exiting a bend becomes an exercise in controlled ferocity, as the eight-speed automatic transmission masterfully deploys the V6’s torque, allowing you to power out with minimal wheel spin.
This is where the Audi RS5 Competition dynamics truly shine. The firmer chassis is far more communicative, allowing you to feel the subtle nuances of the road surface, the shift in tire grip, and the car’s reactions in a way that was previously muffled. It’s an engaging driving experience, transforming the RS5 from a rapid point-A-to-point-B machine into a true driver’s tool, capable of eliciting genuine smiles and a heightened sense of participation. For enthusiasts seeking a performance car for enthusiasts, this is the key differentiator.
A Harmonious Balance: Sportiness Meets Usability
A common concern with performance-oriented upgrades is the potential sacrifice of daily comfort and usability. However, Audi has managed to strike an impressive balance with the RS5 Competition. While the suspension is undeniably firmer, it doesn’t devolve into a punishing ride. In fact, it highlights a nuanced criticism of the standard RS5: it was perhaps too refined, too insulated for a car positioned as Audi’s most engaging A5 variant.
The Competition package, with its lower ride height and stiffer setup, imbues the RS5 with a more purposeful demeanor without rendering it impractical for everyday commuting. It’s a testament to the underlying engineering that even with these track-tuned enhancements, the RS5 remains a perfectly viable daily driver. This dual personality – capable of dissecting apexes on a weekend drive and effortlessly navigating city traffic on a weekday – is a hallmark of a truly well-rounded luxury performance sedan alternative (in Sportback form).
Another welcome change is the reduced sound deadening, a deliberate choice that pairs perfectly with the new RS sport exhaust. Gone are the days of Audi having to pipe artificial engine noise through the speakers. The V6 now sings a more authentic and thrilling song, complete with satisfyingly crisp upshifts and a deep, guttural growl. While road and tire noise are more prominent in the cabin, this is a trade-off many enthusiasts will gladly accept for the genuine auditory experience. The drive modes allow for modulation of this sound, offering a more subdued experience when desired, but the option to unleash the V6’s full vocal prowess is always there. This focus on performance car sound enhances the overall immersive experience.
Interior Sophistication and Subtle Design Cues
The interior enhancements within the Competition package are as thoughtful as the mechanical upgrades. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats feature a distinctive hexagonal stitch pattern reminiscent of exotic supercars, providing excellent lateral support without compromising comfort for longer journeys. The prominent side bolsters cradle the occupants during dynamic driving, ensuring they remain planted.
The Alcantara steering wheel, headliner, and carbon fiber trim contribute to a decidedly sporty yet elegant cabin ambiance. Unlike some competitors that opt for overly glossy finishes, Audi’s use of matte carbon fiber here allows the material to blend seamlessly with the dark interior palette, adding a touch of understated sophistication.
Visually, the exterior modifications are more understated. The carbon fiber splitter and diffuser, along with gloss black badging and trim, add a more aggressive stance. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are a visual highlight, showcasing the massive carbon-ceramic brakes. While these additions are welcome, this is an area where Audi could have potentially pushed the envelope further to create a more distinct visual identity for the Competition model, especially considering the car’s age. However, it’s important to note that the second-generation RS5’s design has aged remarkably well. Its elegant lines, introduced in 2017, still possess a timeless appeal, making it a refined choice compared to the often more ostentatious designs of some rivals.
The Crucial Question: Timing and Value Proposition
The primary point of contention with the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is its timing. The extensive and impactful Competition package arrives quite late in the second-generation model’s lifecycle. This raises a crucial question for potential buyers: is a significantly enhanced driving experience enough to sway consumers towards a car that, in essence, looks much the same as it did nearly a decade ago?
However, the value proposition of the Competition package cannot be overstated. While the $16,100 price is substantial, the depth of the improvements justifies it. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe starts at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $78,995, including destination. With the inclusion of the Competition package, along with other optional extras like the RS driver assistance package and navigation, the as-tested price of my review unit climbed to $100,565.
This figure places the RS5 Competition squarely in premium territory, aligning it with a fully loaded BMW M4. While the pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 has yet to be officially announced for the U.S. market, it’s widely anticipated to be in a similar, if not higher, price bracket. Therefore, the RS5 is asking for a significant sum, but for the first time in its second generation, its engaging and rewarding driving experience finally justifies that premium. For those seeking premium performance coupes near me, this price point, while high, reflects a significant leap in dynamic capability.
The Verdict: A Decade Well Spent
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is, in many ways, the car the RS5 should have been from the outset. It’s a masterful blend of blistering speed, razor-sharp agility, and genuine driver engagement. It successfully marries the inherent capabilities of the base car with a level of immersion and connection that was previously out of reach. Despite its stiffer chassis and more focused setup, it remarkably retains much of its daily comfort and practicality. The enhanced auditory experience, free from artificial augmentation, further elevates the driving sensation.
In isolation, the RS5 Competition stands as a formidable contender against established rivals like the BMW M4. However, the age of the platform remains a factor. The question lingers: will this late-in-life revelation be enough to capture the attention of buyers in a highly competitive segment, or has the window of opportunity passed?
For the discerning driver who prioritizes an authentic and exhilarating driving experience, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition represents a significant leap forward. It’s an automotive culmination, a testament to Audi’s ability to listen, adapt, and ultimately deliver a performance machine that truly connects with its pilot.
If you’re captivated by the promise of an engaging, high-performance German coupe and ready to experience the evolution of the RS5 firsthand, we encourage you to visit your local Audi dealership to schedule a test drive of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. Discover the difference a decade of refinement can make.
