B2712010💔 He stood on the thin line between life and death, clinging to a fragile shred of hope on the highway. The world out there is too big, and he is just too small and alone. 😢🐾

A miracle happened when a stranger stopped. Now, he doesn’t have to hold on all by himself anymore. ❤️🙏
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: Unleashing the Driver Within a Refined Performance Icon

For nearly a decade, I’ve had the privilege of evaluating some of the most exhilarating machines to grace the automotive landscape. Throughout my ten years immersed in this industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand how manufacturers strive to balance raw performance with daily drivability. The Audi RS5 has long been a fascinating case study in this pursuit. It’s consistently been a blisteringly fast, immensely capable grand tourer, capable of humbling far more exotic machinery on any given stretch of highway or even a spirited country road. Yet, for all its prodigious power and advanced engineering, there was often a subtle disconnect, a certain detachment that prevented it from fully immersing the driver in the act of driving. It was a car that could do astonishing things, but it didn’t always make you feel them.

Enter the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. This isn’t a completely new model, but rather a significant evolution of the existing second-generation RS5 Coupe, enhanced by the meticulously crafted Competition package. It’s important to note the distinction: the “Competition” designation here refers to a specific, performance-oriented option package, not an entirely separate model line. And what a package it is. Audi has taken the already potent RS5, armed it with a host of chassis and suspension upgrades, and refined its auditory character, transforming it into something truly special. This iteration, six years into its lifecycle, finally feels like the driver-focused performance car that its lineage has always promised.

The Heart of the Beast: Power Remains Familiar, Engagement Soars

At its core, the RS5 Competition retains the same formidable 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that powers the standard RS5. This powerhouse churns out a stout 444 horsepower and a healthy 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might not directly match the stratospheric outputs of some direct rivals like the BMW M4 Competition or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63, they are, in practical terms, more than ample. The real-world acceleration is nothing short of breathtaking, and the RS5 Competition feels every bit as rapid as its more powerful adversaries. The 0-60 mph sprint remains unchanged at a brisk 3.8 seconds, a testament to the car’s inherent capability. However, where the Competition package truly shines is in its elevated top speed. Reaching a remarkable 180 mph, it significantly surpasses the standard RS5’s limit and even bests models equipped with Audi’s Dynamic Plus package. This isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s about a more focused and exhilarating experience across the entire performance spectrum.

Chassis Transformation: The Secret Sauce for Driving Dynamics

The true magic of the Audi RS5 Competition lies beneath its skin, within the extensive revisions wrought by the Competition package. This isn’t merely about aesthetics; it’s a fundamental overhaul of the car’s dynamic capabilities. The $16,100 investment unlocks a suite of performance-enhancing hardware that dramatically alters the RS5’s character.

Key among these upgrades is the manually adjustable coilover suspension. This allows for a more precise tuning of ride height and damping characteristics, catering to a more aggressive driving style. Paired with beefed-up sport sway bars, the result is a chassis that is significantly more controlled and responsive. Body roll, a characteristic that could sometimes temper the RS5’s agility, is dramatically reduced. Turn-in is sharper, more immediate, and the car feels far more planted as it negotiates challenging bends. The engineers have also implemented a quicker steering ratio, bringing the front wheels into line with the driver’s intentions with greater alacrity. While it might not offer the granular feedback of some pure sports cars, the steering is notably more direct and communicative than before, allowing you to better feel the subtle nuances of the road surface.

The combination of these chassis enhancements, coupled with the sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires and a finely tuned eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, creates a symphony of grip and composure. Cornering speeds are elevated, and the RS5 Competition can effortlessly deploy its substantial power out of apexes, thanks to the improved traction and stability. It’s this newfound connection between the driver, the car, and the road that truly defines the RS5 Competition. It transforms the experience from one of merely being a passenger in a fast machine to actively participating in its thrilling performance.

A More Engaging Auditory Experience: The Sound of Performance

One of the most striking changes brought about by the Competition package is its auditory evolution. Audi has deliberately reduced sound deadening within the cabin. This might sound counterintuitive for a luxury performance coupe, but in the context of the RS5 Competition, it’s a brilliant move. It’s complemented by the inclusion of a more aggressive RS sport exhaust system. The result is a richer, more visceral V6 soundtrack that fills the cabin, eschewing the artificial, piped-in sounds that sometimes marred previous iterations.

Now, when you blip the throttle or shift gears, you’re treated to a satisfyingly throaty growl, punctuated by glorious pops and bangs on upshifts. This enhanced aural engagement is a critical component of the overall driving experience, drawing the driver deeper into the performance. The ability to modulate the exhaust note through the different drive modes also adds a layer of versatility, allowing for a more subdued experience during daily commutes or unleashing the full auditory fury when the mood strikes. The increase in road and tire noise is a minor trade-off for the authentic and thrilling sound that emanates from the engine and exhaust.

Interior Refinements: Sporty Elegance Meets Comfort

Inside the RS5 Competition, the upgrades continue, blending sporty aesthetics with the expected Audi level of refinement. The seats are a particular highlight. Upholstered in a combination of Nappa leather and Dinamica, they feature a striking hexagonal stitch pattern, reminiscent of high-end supercar interiors. The gloss-black trim and embroidered backrests add a touch of aggressive styling, while the inflatable side bolsters provide excellent lateral support during spirited driving. Crucially, these bolsters can be adjusted for less aggressive settings, ensuring ample comfort for longer journeys.

The steering wheel, headliner, and cabin trim are all adorned with Alcantara and carbon fiber. Unlike some competitors that opt for a more flamboyant gloss finish, Audi has chosen a matte treatment for the carbon fiber. This subtle approach allows the material to integrate seamlessly with the dark interior palette, exuding an understated elegance rather than overt sportiness. The overall impression is one of sophisticated performance, where every material choice feels deliberate and contributes to the premium ambiance.

Subtle Exterior Enhancements: A Timeless Design

Visually, the Audi RS5 Competition’s changes are more nuanced. The Competition package often bundles desirable carbon-fiber elements like a front splitter and rear diffuser, which were previously optional on the base car. Gloss black badging and trim further enhance its assertive stance. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are a design highlight, perfectly complementing the car’s proportions and offering a clear view of the immense carbon-ceramic brakes peeking through. While these visual cues are undeniably attractive, one might have wished for a more dramatic differentiation, especially considering the model’s age.

However, the enduring elegance of the second-generation RS5’s design is a significant asset. Introduced in 2017, its timeless lines still hold up remarkably well, projecting a sophisticated and contemporary image that transcends fleeting trends. While it may not possess the ostentatious flair of some rivals, its understated beauty makes it arguably the most aesthetically pleasing option in its segment.

The Crucial Question of Age and Value

The most significant point of contention, and one that weighs heavily on my expert opinion, is the age of the second-generation RS5 platform. While the Competition package injects a vital dose of driver engagement, it arrives relatively late in the model’s lifecycle. This raises a pertinent question: Will this newfound dynamism be enough to capture the attention of discerning buyers, or has the market moved on?

The $16,100 Competition package, while substantial, undeniably adds significant value. A 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe, equipped with the destination fee, starts at approximately $78,995. My comprehensively optioned test vehicle, including the Competition package, the RS driver assistance package, and the navigation package, tipped the scales at just over $100,000. This pricing positions the RS5 Competition squarely against well-equipped rivals like the BMW M4. While the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63’s pricing is still to be confirmed, it’s likely to command a similar, if not higher, premium. Therefore, while the RS5 demands a significant sum, the drastically improved driving experience it now offers finally justifies the investment.

Conclusion: A Driver’s RS5, Finally Realized

The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition represents the car I’ve always wished the RS5 had been. It is undeniably fast, exceptionally agile, and, most importantly, deeply engaging. It masterfully combines the raw speed of the standard model with a level of driver immersion that was previously elusive. The firmer chassis, quicker steering, and enhanced auditory feedback create a symbiotic relationship between driver and machine.

Crucially, these performance enhancements do not come at the expense of daily comfort or practicality. The RS5 Competition strikes an impressive balance, excelling as a potent weekend track weapon and a sophisticated weekday commuter. The reduced sound deadening, far from being a detraction, amplifies the mechanical symphony of the V6, making the driving experience all the more exhilarating.

In isolation, the Audi RS5 Competition stands as a formidable competitor to the already excellent BMW M4. However, its age remains a factor. Despite the significant improvements that finally elevate the RS5 from a mere quick car to a genuinely involving driver’s machine, the ultimate question lingers: Will buyers recognize and reward this late-cycle transformation, or is it simply too little, too late?

For those who prioritize an exhilarating driving experience, a deep connection to the road, and the refined elegance that Audi is renowned for, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition presents an compelling, albeit final, opportunity.

If you’re ready to experience the most engaging Audi RS5 ever produced, we encourage you to visit your local Audi dealership and schedule a test drive. Discover firsthand how the Competition package has transformed this iconic performance coupe into a true driver’s machine.