Unleashing the Beast: The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition Elevates Driving Dynamics
For years, the Audi RS5 has occupied a peculiar niche in the automotive landscape. It’s undeniably a powerhouse, a machine meticulously engineered to deliver blistering acceleration and astonishing grip, often punching far above its weight class in terms of outright performance. Yet, for all its capability, there was a lingering sense that this formidable German coupe, whether in its sleek two-door or practical four-door Sportback guise, was almost too good at doing the hard work for you. The result? A car that could conquer any road with breathtaking speed, but rarely elicited the visceral thrill or deep-seated connection that truly defines an engaging driving experience. This inherent paradox, the struggle between immense capability and genuine driver involvement, is a narrative woven through the RS5’s lineage.
However, the automotive narrative for the RS5 takes a significant and welcome turn with the introduction of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. While the name might initially evoke comparisons to certain Bavarian rivals with similar naming conventions, the essence of this package, developed by Audi’s own engineers in Ingolstadt, is distinct. It’s not about raw horsepower hikes; the heart of the RS5 Competition remains its potent 444-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6. Instead, the magic lies in a meticulously curated suite of upgrades: manually adjustable coilover suspension, more robust sway bars, a recalibrated and quicker steering rack, and an exhaust system designed to amplify the V6’s operatic bark. This isn’t merely a cosmetic facelift; it’s a fundamental re-engineering aimed squarely at bridging the gap between astonishing velocity and the driver’s ability to truly feel the road and the car beneath them. After six years in its second generation, this potent Audi has finally ascended to its zenith, offering an Audi RS5 driver engagement benchmark that was previously aspirational.
The $16,100 Competition package, while substantial in cost, is a veritable treasure trove of performance-enhancing hardware. Beyond the headline items of manually adjustable coilover suspension and beefier sway bars, it introduces carbon-ceramic brakes – a welcome addition for any serious performance enthusiast. The RS sport exhaust system also plays a crucial role in transforming the auditory experience. Visually, the package doesn’t shy away from signaling its intent. A carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser lend a more aggressive stance, while distinctive 20-inch Y-spoke wheels contribute to the overall aesthetic. Inside, the cabin is adorned with Nappa leather seating and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, signaling a clear departure towards a more driver-focused environment. While this list merely scratches the surface, it underscores the significant value proposition packed into this optional upgrade, justifying its premium.
Crucially, the formidable power output of the twin-turbo V6 remains unchanged. It continues to deliver a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might appear modest when stacked against the top-tier offerings from rivals like the BMW M4 Competition (with its 503 horsepower) or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63 (also boasting 503 horsepower), this is where real-world performance often diverges from spec sheets. The RS5 Competition feels every bit as quick and potent as its competitors, and in many scenarios, its linear power delivery and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system make it exceptionally effective. Its 0-60 mph acceleration remains unchanged at a brisk 3.8 seconds. However, the Competition package unlocks a significantly higher top speed, a remarkable 180 mph – a full 25 mph beyond the standard RS5 and six miles per hour higher than models equipped with the Dynamic Plus package. This enhanced top-end capability further broadens the RS5 Competition’s performance envelope.
It is on a spirited drive through winding country roads, however, where the transformative impact of the Competition package truly crystallies. From the moment you initiate a turn-in, the RS5 Competition responds with an urgency and precision that was previously absent. The recalibrated coilover suspension, while undeniably firmer, masterfully controls the substantial mass of the nearly 3,900-pound coupe. Body roll is dramatically curtailed, allowing for near-instantaneous changes in direction without the unsettling float or unwanted oscillations that could plague earlier iterations. This newfound agility is further amplified by the quicker steering ratio. While the feedback isn’t overtly talkative in the vein of a purist’s sports car, it’s significantly more direct and communicative than before, providing the driver with a clearer understanding of the front axle’s behavior and its interaction with the asphalt. This enhanced Audi RS5 steering feel is a critical component of the improved Audi RS5 handling.
Complementing the chassis and steering enhancements is a finely tuned eight-speed automatic transmission, working in concert with the exceptionally sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires. This potent combination allows the RS5 Competition to exploit its suspension upgrades to the fullest, delivering astonishing mid-corner grip and the confidence to lay down its considerable power as you accelerate out of bends. While the standard RS5 is a capable performer, the Competition package’s more rigid chassis creates a far more connected experience. You don’t just witness the car’s impressive velocity; you feel it, a crucial distinction for any enthusiast seeking a truly immersive drive. This elevated level of Audi RS5 performance tuning is what sets it apart.
Despite its decidedly firmer suspension setup – which also lowers the ride height by a noticeable 0.39 inches (10 mm) – the added performance capabilities of the Audi RS5 Competition do not come at the significant expense of daily comfort and usability. In fact, this achievement says more about the inherent refinement of the standard RS5 than a compromise in the Competition model. The base car, in its pursuit of ultimate refinement, sometimes felt almost too plush for a model designed to be the A5 lineup’s most engaging variant. The Competition package strikes a remarkable equilibrium, successfully balancing the attributes of a highly capable weekend track weapon with the comfortable, composed demeanor required for a daily commute. This duality is a testament to meticulous engineering.
The Competition package also addresses the RS5’s sound deadening, a decision that perfectly complements the inclusion of the raucous RS sport exhaust. While this reduction in insulation means more road and tire noise permeates the cabin, it’s a trade-off that a true sports car enthusiast will readily embrace. The era of Audi artificially piping engine notes into the cabin is thankfully behind us. The RS5 Competition now delivers a genuinely visceral and throaty V6 symphony, punctuated by explosive upshifts that can be modulated through the car’s various drive modes, offering a dynamic soundtrack to every journey. This authentic auditory experience significantly enhances the Audi RS5 exhaust note and overall driving immersion.
Inside, the Competition package lavishes the cabin with a host of sporty yet elegant accoutrements. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are a highlight, featuring a striking Lamborghini-esque hexagonal stitching pattern. Gloss black trim accents and embroidered backrests add visual flair, while the inflatable side bolsters provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving and can be adjusted for greater comfort on longer journeys. The signature Alcantara treatment extends to the steering wheel and headliner, complemented by carbon-fiber trim inserts. Unlike the overtly flashy glossy finishes found in some competitors, Audi opts for a more sophisticated matte finish for the carbon fiber, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with the dark, luxurious interior aesthetic. This thoughtful detailing contributes to the Audi RS5 interior upgrades.
From an exterior perspective, the visual changes on the Audi RS5 Competition are subtle rather than ostentatious. It essentially consolidates elements like the carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser – which were available as standalone options on the base car – with gloss black badging and trim. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are elegantly proportioned and provide an unimpeded view of the substantial carbon-ceramic brake rotors, hinting at the car’s enhanced stopping power. While some might wish for more dramatic visual differentiation, particularly given the model’s age, this understated approach aligns with Audi’s design philosophy of sophisticated aggression. For those seeking a more overt visual statement, alternative models may be a better fit, but the Audi RS5 Competition aesthetics are undeniably refined.
The second-generation Audi RS5, despite its tenure, continues to age gracefully. Introduced for the 2017 model year, its timeless and elegant design language ensures it still presents a contemporary and sophisticated image. While it may lack the overt flamboyance of some of its German rivals, it remains arguably the most aesthetically pleasing option in its segment, a true testament to Audi’s design prowess. This enduring design, coupled with the significant performance upgrades, creates a compelling package. This is an important consideration for buyers looking for 2025 performance car options with established design elegance.
The primary point of contemplation surrounding the RS5 Competition stems from its position late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle. While the Competition package represents a substantial and highly desirable enhancement, delivering an objectively superior driving experience, the question remains: will buyers be drawn to a significantly improved car that, visually, still carries the design cues of its 2017 debut? This is a crucial factor for anyone considering new Audi RS5 purchase.
The $16,100 Competition package, despite its considerable price tag, injects an undeniable amount of value and performance into the RS5. A 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe, before any optional extras, commands a starting price of $78,995, including destination charges. My specific tester, equipped with the Competition package, an optional RS driver assistance package ($3,000), and a navigation package ($1,500), pushed the final sticker price to a noteworthy $100,565. While a six-figure sum for an A5-based Audi may initially seem ambitious, it firmly positions the RS5 Competition within the competitive landscape. Its pricing aligns closely with a fully optioned BMW M4. While official U.S. pricing for the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 has yet to be announced, it is widely anticipated to fall within a similar, if not higher, price bracket. Thus, the Audi RS5, with its final performance flourish, now commands a premium sum, but crucially, its newfound engaging driving dynamics finally justify that cost. This makes it a serious contender for luxury performance coupe buyers.
In essence, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is the car many enthusiasts have wished the RS5 had been all along. It’s a captivating blend of exhilarating speed, razor-sharp agility, and, most importantly, profound driver engagement. It finally imbues the base car’s formidable performance with a level of immersion and connection previously elusive. Furthermore, this enhanced performance does not come at the expense of everyday comfort or practicality. The reduced sound deadening allows for a more authentic and thrilling V6 soundtrack, eliminating the need for artificial augmentation. For those seeking the ultimate Audi RS5 upgrade, this package is it.
When evaluated in isolation, the Competition package-equipped Audi RS5 stands as a formidable challenger to the exceptional BMW M4. However, the age of the RS5 platform remains an undeniable factor in the purchasing decision. Despite its latest suite of updates transforming it from a mere straight-line missile into a genuinely engaging driver’s car, the ultimate question lingers: will the market embrace this late-blooming dynamism, or has time simply run out for this iteration of the RS5? Only time will tell how the Audi RS5 Competition vs M4 debate ultimately plays out for buyers.
If you’re ready to experience a new level of Audi RS5 performance and discover what true driver engagement feels like, we invite you to explore the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition and schedule your personal test drive today.
