The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: Finally, an RS5 That Dances with You
For nearly a decade now, the Audi RS5 has occupied a curious space in the performance car landscape. It’s undeniably a marvel of engineering, a machine capable of traversing asphalt at speeds that would make supercars blush, all while coddling its occupants in a cocoon of luxurious refinement. Yet, this very capability, this effortless dispatch of speed, has often left drivers feeling like passengers in their own thrill ride. The RS5 was always incredibly fast, but rarely was it fun. That is, until the arrival of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. This isn’t just an RS5 with a fancy package; it’s a fundamental recalibration, a deliberate pivot towards driver engagement that finally elevates the RS5 to its rightful place among the most compelling performance coupes.
For those seeking a truly exhilarating driving experience in a luxury performance coupe, the Audi RS5 Competition package represents a significant evolution. This isn’t merely about cosmetic enhancements; it’s about a tangible transformation in how the RS5 interacts with the road and, crucially, with the person behind the wheel. With a decade of experience navigating the intricacies of high-performance vehicles, I can attest that the RS5 Competition package addresses the very core of what discerning drivers crave: connection, feedback, and a willingness to play.
The Heart of the Beast: Unchanged Power, Amplified Sensation
At the core of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition remains the formidable 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6. It’s a powerplant that, in its standard guise, delivers a potent 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might seem modest when stacked against some of its more overtly aggressive rivals, like the BMW M4 Competition or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63, it’s crucial to understand that real-world performance is far more nuanced than mere horsepower numbers. The RS5’s V6 engine delivers its thrust with relentless urgency, propelling the coupe from 0 to 60 mph in a scant 3.8 seconds. Crucially, the Competition package unlocks a higher top speed, reaching an impressive 180 mph, a full 25 mph over the standard RS5 and significantly beyond what most drivers will ever need or experience.
The true magic of the RS5 Competition doesn’t lie in an increase in raw power, but in how that power is now delivered and perceived. The engine’s characteristic V6 growl, a sound that was previously somewhat muted or even artificially piped into the cabin in earlier iterations, is now presented with an unadulterated, visceral authenticity. The addition of the RS sport exhaust system, a cornerstone of the Competition package, injects a delightful rawness into the auditory experience. During spirited driving, the V6 unleashes a symphony of snarls and pops, particularly on upshifts, that genuinely enhances the engagement factor. This isn’t just background noise; it’s a soundtrack to performance, and it’s one that Audi has finally allowed to be heard clearly.
Sharpening the Senses: Chassis Dynamics Reimagined
The most profound changes in the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition are found in its chassis and suspension. The $16,100 Competition package is not a token gesture; it’s a comprehensive suite of upgrades designed to imbue the RS5 with a newfound agility and a much-needed dose of road feel. Central to this transformation is the manually adjustable coilover suspension. This system, while noticeably firmer than the standard setup, doesn’t render the RS5 into a brittle, unforgiving machine. Instead, it masterfully controls the considerable mass of the nearly 4,000-pound coupe, minimizing body roll and allowing for instantaneous changes in direction.
When you turn the wheel into a tight corner, the RS5 Competition responds with an eagerness and precision that was previously missing. The quicker steering ratio, another key component of the package, further enhances this sense of immediacy. While it may not offer the granular feedback of some purer sports cars, the steering is more direct, more communicative, and inspires confidence as you explore the limits of adhesion. This improved steering, coupled with the retuned suspension, transforms the RS5 from a potent straight-line missile into a true backroad artist.
Complementing these chassis enhancements is the sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa rubber that wraps the gorgeous 20-inch Y-spoke wheels. This high-performance tire compound, in conjunction with the finely tuned eight-speed automatic transmission, ensures that the RS5 Competition can effectively harness its formidable power. The car exhibits impressive mid-corner grip, allowing you to accelerate with conviction out of bends, feeling the tires biting into the tarmac. Where the standard RS5 might have felt somewhat detached, the Competition variant offers a palpable connection to the road surface, allowing you to feel the immense pace it can generate. This is the essence of driver engagement: understanding what the car is doing beneath you and being able to react and adjust accordingly. For those considering performance upgrades for Audi RS5, the Competition package offers a factory-backed, integrated solution.
The Balance of Power and Usability: A New Equilibrium
One of the persistent criticisms leveled against performance variants of luxury cars is the compromise often made in terms of ride comfort and daily drivability. The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition, however, manages to strike an impressive balance. While the suspension is undeniably firmer, the ride quality remains remarkably civilized for everyday commuting. This speaks volumes about the inherent refinement of the standard RS5, which, in retrospect, perhaps erred on the side of being too plush for a car with RS badging. The Competition package, by introducing a more focused chassis, recalibrates this balance, delivering a sporty experience without sacrificing the practicality that many Audi buyers expect. It’s a car that can confidently tackle a track day with its enhanced dynamics, yet still serve as a comfortable and refined daily driver for the commute to work. This dual personality is a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess.
A Symphony for the Senses: The Cabin Experience
The interior of the Audi RS5 Competition receives a subtle yet effective enhancement, further emphasizing its driver-focused ethos. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are not just visually striking, with their Lamborghini-esque hexagonal stitching pattern and gloss black accents, but they are also supremely supportive. The inflatable side bolsters provide excellent lateral grip during spirited driving, keeping occupants securely planted without feeling constrictive during more relaxed journeys.
The inclusion of an Alcantara steering wheel and headliner, coupled with carbon fiber trim, elevates the cabin’s sporty ambiance. Unlike some rivals that opt for glossy, fingerprint-attracting finishes, Audi’s use of Alcantara here is a more understated, matte affair, blending seamlessly with the dark, sophisticated interior. This thoughtful approach to materials and design reinforces the RS5’s identity as a performance car that prioritizes elegance alongside its potency. For those interested in luxury sports car interiors, the RS5 Competition offers a compelling blend of performance aesthetics and premium comfort.
Understated Aggression: Exterior Design Evolution
Visually, the changes to the Audi RS5 Competition are more nuanced than revolutionary. The package incorporates elements like the carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, which were previously available as standalone options, along with gloss black badging and trim. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are a standout feature, not only enhancing the car’s aggressive stance but also offering a clear view of the massive carbon-ceramic brakes – a significant upgrade that contributes to both performance and aesthetics.
While the visual enhancements are certainly appealing, one could argue that Audi could have pushed the envelope further to more distinctly differentiate the Competition model from its standard sibling. However, it’s also important to acknowledge the inherent timelessness of the second-generation RS5’s design. Introduced in 2017, its elegant lines have aged remarkably well, maintaining a contemporary appeal even today. Compared to the often more flamboyant styling of its direct competitors, the RS5 retains a sophisticated, understated aggression that many find highly attractive. If you’re looking for the best Audi RS5 deals, exploring models with the Competition package is a wise move.
The Specter of Age and Value Proposition
The most significant point of contention surrounding the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is its timing. While the Competition package represents a substantial improvement in driving dynamics, its introduction arrives quite late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle. This begs the question: will these significant enhancements be enough to sway potential buyers towards a model that, in terms of its fundamental design, is several years old?
The $16,100 Competition package, while undeniably expensive, does bring a considerable amount of value. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe started at around $78,995. With the addition of the Competition package, an RS driver assistance package, and a navigation package, the as-tested price of my evaluation vehicle climbed to a considerable $100,565. While a six-figure price tag for an A5-derived coupe might initially seem steep, it aligns the RS5 Competition firmly within the competitive landscape of its primary rivals. A similarly equipped BMW M4 would command a comparable price, and while the exact U.S. pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 remains unannounced, it is widely expected to be in the same premium bracket. Therefore, while the Audi RS5 is undeniably a premium offering, the significantly improved driving engagement now justifies its lofty price point. For those searching for performance coupes under $100k, the RS5 Competition, while at the upper end, offers a compelling package.
The Verdict: The RS5 We’ve Been Waiting For
In conclusion, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is the car I have long wished the RS5 had been. It’s a potent combination of blistering speed, newfound agility, and, most importantly, genuine driver engagement. It takes the inherent capability of the standard RS5 and injects a level of sensory immersion that was previously elusive. Despite its more focused chassis, it miraculously retains a high degree of daily comfort and practicality. The reduced sound deadening, coupled with the sport exhaust, means you’re treated to the authentic growl of the V6, rather than relying on synthesized sound.
In isolation, the Audi RS5 Competition stands as a formidable competitor to established benchmarks like the BMW M4. However, the lingering question of the model’s age cannot be entirely dismissed. Despite how these latest enhancements finally transform the RS5 from merely a quick car into a truly engaging driver’s machine, the market’s response remains to be seen. Is it too late for this dynamically brilliant iteration to capture the attention it deserves?
If you are a driving enthusiast who appreciates potent performance wrapped in a sophisticated, elegant package, and you seek a vehicle that actively participates in the driving experience rather than simply transporting you, then the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition deserves your serious consideration. Its evolution towards driver engagement is a testament to Audi’s commitment to refining its performance offerings.
Ready to experience the thrilling evolution of the Audi RS5? Visit your local Audi dealer today to schedule a test drive and feel the difference the Competition package makes firsthand. Discover a performance coupe that finally dances with you on every road.
