The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: Unleashing the Driver Within
For nearly a decade now, I’ve had the privilege of evaluating performance vehicles, a journey that consistently brings me face-to-face with engineering marvels and, at times, missed opportunities. The Audi RS5, in its various iterations, has long been a paradox. It’s undeniably a potent machine, effortlessly capable of dispatching highways and even spirited drives with a ferocity that belies its elegant coupe or Sportback silhouette. Yet, for all its prodigious speed and sophisticated all-wheel-drive grip, it often felt like a spectator sport from behind the wheel. The immense velocity was there, but the visceral connection, the pure unadulterated joy of a driver deeply engaged with their machine and the road, was conspicuously absent. Until now.
Enter the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition, a designation that, while sharing nomenclature with rivals, signifies a profound shift in the RS5’s ethos. It’s not a ground-up redesign, but rather a meticulously curated package, the $16,100 Competition package, transforming the already formidable RS5 into something truly special. Underneath the hood, the heart of the beast remains the familiar 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6, churning out a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. But the magic of the Competition package lies in its comprehensive suspension recalibration, a sharper steering rack, and an exhaust system that finally sings the song its performance deserves. This isn’t merely an incremental upgrade; it’s a philosophical pivot, transforming the RS5 from a supremely competent grand tourer into a genuinely thrilling driver’s car. After six years on the market, the second-generation RS5 has finally reached its zenith.
The $16,100 investment in the Competition package is far from a trivial expense, but the sheer volume of high-performance hardware it bestows upon the RS5 makes it a compelling proposition. Carbon-ceramic brakes, a staple of serious performance machines, are now standard, offering unparalleled stopping power and fade resistance. The truly transformative element, however, is the manually adjustable coilover suspension. This isn’t just a stiffer spring and damper setup; it allows for a level of tuning previously unheard of in an Audi RS model. Complementing this are beefier sport sway bars, designed to minimize body roll and enhance lateral grip. The steering rack is significantly quicker, sharpening turn-in and demanding more immediate driver input.
Beyond the mechanical enhancements, the Competition package imbues the RS5 with a host of visual and tactile upgrades that further amplify the driver-centric experience. A carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser aren’t just aesthetic flourishes; they contribute to aerodynamic downforce at higher speeds. The stunning 20-inch Y-spoke wheels, a design that perfectly complements the RS5’s sculpted lines, offer a clear view of those impressive carbon-ceramic stoppers. Inside, the cabin receives a significant boost in sportiness with Nappa leather and Alcantara-trimmed seats, featuring a striking hexagonal stitching pattern reminiscent of exotic supercars. The steering wheel, also wrapped in tactile Alcantara, provides a confident grip, while carbon fiber trim accents the dashboard and door panels. While the visual enhancements might not scream “all-new,” they collectively signal a heightened focus on performance and driver engagement.
It’s crucial to address the elephant in the room: power. The 444 horsepower output might seem modest when directly compared to competitors like the BMW M4 Competition, which boasts over 500 horsepower, or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63. However, in the real world, the RS5 Competition feels every bit as swift. Its 0-60 mph time remains a blistering 3.8 seconds, a testament to the efficacy of its Quattro all-wheel-drive system and the potent V6. Where the Competition package truly shines is in its elevated top speed. The standard RS5 tops out at a respectable 155 mph, but the Competition package unlocks a remarkable 180 mph, a full 25 mph higher than the base car, and even exceeding the previous Dynamic Plus package equipped models. This isn’t just about bragging rights; it signifies a car engineered for sustained high-speed performance, a true GT cruiser that can also play the track day hero.
The true revelation of the Audi RS5 Competition unfolds the moment you venture onto a winding stretch of asphalt. The transformation is palpable from the very first turn of the steering wheel. The coilover suspension, while certainly firmer than the standard car, doesn’t punish the driver. Instead, it masterfully controls the RS5’s considerable mass – still tipping the scales at over 3,900 pounds – keeping it remarkably flat through corners. The immediacy of direction changes is astonishing. Gone is the slight tendency towards understeer that could occasionally plague the base RS5 when pushed hard. The Competition package delivers a planted, predictable, and incredibly confidence-inspiring chassis.
This newfound agility is intrinsically linked to the recalibrated steering system. While it doesn’t flood the driver with an overwhelming amount of granular road texture, the increased responsiveness and precision are undeniable. Every input is met with an immediate and accurate response, allowing the driver to place the car exactly where they want it with minimal fuss. The RS5 Competition feels more connected, more eager to dance through corners, and less like a detached observer. It’s the kind of steering that encourages you to seek out those challenging apexes, to feel the car respond to your every command.
The synergy between the sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires and the finely tuned eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is another key component of the RS5 Competition’s elevated driving dynamics. The transmission, often a point of contention in performance Audis for its sometimes-hesitant shifts, feels significantly more decisive here. It expertly manages gear selection, keeping the V6 on the boil and ensuring that power is always readily available as you exit a corner. The mid-corner grip is tenacious, and the ability to smoothly apply power without upsetting the car’s balance is a testament to the sophisticated Quattro system working in concert with the upgraded chassis. While the standard RS5 is undeniably capable, the Competition package makes its immense pace not just observable but truly feelable. You’re no longer just a passenger in a fast car; you’re an active participant in its performance.
One of the most impressive aspects of the RS5 Competition is its ability to retain a remarkable degree of daily usability despite its significantly enhanced performance envelope. The firmer suspension, which sits 0.39 inches lower, could have easily translated into a bone-jarring ride. However, Audi has managed to strike an exceptional balance. This speaks volumes about the inherent refinement of the standard RS5, a car that, in retrospect, felt almost too compliant for its sporting aspirations. The Competition package car, while demonstrably stiffer, still offers a comfortable and composed ride for commuting duties. It’s the perfect blend of a weekend track weapon and a refined weekday cruiser, a duality that many performance car manufacturers struggle to achieve.
Audi’s decision to reduce sound deadening in the Competition package is a masterstroke, perfectly complementing the new RS sport exhaust system. The era of artificially piped-in engine noise is thankfully over for the RS5. While the increased road and tire noise might be a minor drawback for some, it’s a necessary trade-off for experiencing the genuine, guttural roar of the twin-turbo V6. The exhaust note is aggressive and purposeful, punctuated by delightful pops and bangs on upshifts that add a layer of auditory excitement. The ability to dial the exhaust note up or down via the drive select modes is a thoughtful touch, allowing for civilized cruising when needed and a full-on sonic assault when the mood strikes. For enthusiasts who crave the sensory feedback of a true sports car, this enhanced acoustic experience is a game-changer.
The interior enhancements of the Competition package, while subtle, contribute significantly to the overall driver-focused ambiance. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats provide exceptional support during spirited driving, thanks to their aggressively bolstered side supports, yet they remain comfortable for longer journeys. The hexagonal stitching pattern is a sophisticated detail that adds a touch of exotic flair. The Alcantara-clad steering wheel, headliner, and carbon fiber trim create a cockpit that feels purposeful and premium. Unlike some rivals that opt for high-gloss finishes that can be distracting, Audi’s use of matte carbon fiber here integrates seamlessly with the dark cabin, exuding an understated elegance.
Visually, the RS5 Competition is an exercise in restraint, a characteristic that has always defined Audi’s RS models. The changes are more about refinement than radical transformation. The carbon fiber splitter and diffuser, along with gloss black badging and trim, are present, but they don’t scream for attention. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are undeniably attractive and allow a clear view of the massive carbon-ceramic brakes, which are the undeniable stars of the show from a performance perspective. While some might wish for more overt visual cues to differentiate the Competition model, Audi’s philosophy has always been about understated aggression. However, given the model’s age, a more distinct visual identity might have further bolstered its appeal.
The longevity of the second-generation Audi RS5’s design is a testament to its timeless elegance. Even since its 2017 debut, its lines have aged remarkably well, maintaining a contemporary presence that holds its own against newer rivals. While it may lack the flamboyant styling of some competitors, its sophisticated and muscular aesthetic remains a strong selling point. It’s a car that exudes class and performance without resorting to visual excess.
The most significant internal conflict arises from the timing of the Competition package. While it undeniably elevates the RS5’s driving experience to an exhilarating new level, its introduction so late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle raises a pertinent question: is a significantly improved driving dynamic enough to sway buyers towards a car that looks much like it did seven years ago? This is where the value proposition of the Competition package becomes paramount.
At a starting price of $78,995 (including destination), the base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe is already a substantial investment. My test vehicle, equipped with the aforementioned Competition package, the optional $3,000 RS driver assistance package, and a $1,500 navigation system, pushed the total price to an eye-watering $100,565. While crossing the six-figure threshold for an A5-based Audi is a significant mental hurdle, the pricing aligns with competitors. A similarly equipped BMW M4 Competition often crests this mark, and while the pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 in the U.S. remains undisclosed, it’s widely anticipated to be in the same ballpark, if not higher. Therefore, the Audi RS5 Competition, despite its premium sum, finally justifies its asking price with a driving experience that is no longer merely fast, but genuinely engaging and deeply satisfying.
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is, in essence, the car I’ve always wished the RS5 had been. It’s a harmonious blend of blistering speed, razor-sharp agility, and immersive driver engagement. It takes the inherent capability of the base car and injects it with a visceral connection to the road that was previously elusive. Despite its firmer chassis and more direct feedback, it remarkably preserves the daily comfort and practicality that makes an Audi RS model so appealing. The enhanced exhaust note, a symphony of mechanical V6 prowess, further elevates the sensory experience, providing authentic auditory thrills without artificial embellishment.
When evaluated on its own merits, the Audi RS5 Competition stands as a formidable rival to the excellent BMW M4. However, the undeniable age of the platform is a factor that cannot be overlooked. While the Competition package represents a significant and welcome evolution, bringing the RS5 into contention as a truly engaging driver’s car, the lingering question remains: will this late-stage enhancement be enough to captivate buyers, or has the window of opportunity closed?
If you’re seeking a performance coupe that offers a compelling blend of breathtaking speed, sophisticated all-wheel-drive grip, and a newfound sense of driver involvement, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition deserves your immediate attention. Don’t let its established lineage deter you; experience the transformation for yourself. Visit your local Audi dealer today and schedule a test drive that will redefine your expectations of what an Audi RS car can be.
