Audi RS5 Competition: A Decade of Refinement Culminates in Unparalleled Driver Engagement
For ten years, I’ve navigated the evolving landscape of performance vehicles, witnessing firsthand how manufacturers strive to balance brute force with genuine driver connection. The Audi RS5, for much of its second generation, has been a fascinating case study in “suffering from success.” It’s consistently delivered prodigious speed, capable of embarrassing cars costing significantly more, yet often felt like a highly competent but detached instrument. This year, however, with the introduction of the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition package, Ingolstadt has finally unlocked the soul of this potent machine. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a transformation, turning a fast car into a truly engaging driving experience that sets a new benchmark for the RS5 lineage.
The core of the RS5’s appeal has always been its effortless power delivery. Underneath the sculpted hood lies the familiar 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6, a powerplant that churns out a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might not directly match the headline numbers of some key German rivals – think the BMW M4 Competition or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63, both boasting over 500 horsepower – they are, in the real world, more than sufficient. The 0-60 mph sprint remains a brisk 3.8 seconds, a testament to Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system’s ability to translate power into forward momentum. However, it’s the elevated top speed – a remarkable 180 mph, a full 25 mph beyond the standard RS5 and even surpassing models equipped with the Dynamic Plus package – that hints at the broader capabilities unlocked by the Competition designation.
The true magic, however, resides not in raw horsepower, but in the meticulous tuning and hardware upgrades that constitute the $16,100 Competition package. This isn’t a superficial styling exercise; it’s a comprehensive mechanical overhaul designed to amplify the driver’s involvement. At its heart lies a manually adjustable coilover suspension system, a significant departure from the more comfort-oriented setup of the standard RS5. Complementing this are beefed-up sway bars, engineered to dramatically reduce body roll and enhance cornering stability. The steering system has also undergone a significant recalibration, offering a quicker ratio that, while perhaps not delivering a torrent of granular road feel, promotes a far more immediate and precise response to driver inputs. Finally, a revised RS sport exhaust system injects a visceral soundtrack, transforming the V6’s growl into a more vocal, characterful performance.
The immediate impact of these changes is palpable the moment you steer the RS5 Competition into a challenging series of bends. The firmer chassis, a direct consequence of the coilover suspension and refined anti-roll bars, keeps the RS5’s nearly 4,000-pound mass remarkably composed. Transitions from turn to turn are sharper, more decisive, and devoid of the lingering body motions that could previously dilute the sensation of speed. This newfound agility, coupled with the quicker steering, creates a more cohesive and intuitive connection between the driver, the car, and the asphalt. It allows you to place the car with confidence, exploring the limits of its considerable grip without the usual hesitations. This is where the Audi RS5 Competition driving experience truly shines, transforming it from a potent straight-line missile into a corner-carving predator.
This enhanced agility doesn’t come at the expense of usability, a testament to the inherent capabilities of the second-generation RS5 platform. While the suspension is noticeably firmer, the ride quality remains surprisingly compliant for daily commuting. In fact, one could argue that the standard RS5, in its pursuit of ultimate refinement, sometimes felt a touch too isolated. The Competition package, by contrast, strikes an enviable balance. It provides the taut, controlled feel necessary for spirited driving on weekends, yet remains civilized enough for the Monday-to-Friday grind. This equilibrium is a critical factor for performance cars that aim to be both thrilling and practical, a combination often sought after by discerning buyers in the luxury performance coupe market.
A significant element contributing to the RS5 Competition’s heightened sense of occasion is its auditory experience. The engineers have thoughtfully reduced sound deadening, allowing more of the V6’s natural voice to permeate the cabin. This, combined with the RS sport exhaust, creates a rich, throaty V6 symphony punctuated by satisfyingly explosive upshifts. Gone are the days of artificially piped-in engine notes; the RS5 Competition delivers an authentic auditory assault that intensifies the driving sensation. The ability to modulate this sound through different drive modes adds another layer of customization, allowing drivers to choose between a more subdued commute or a full-blown auditory performance. This focus on performance car sound is a key differentiator for enthusiasts.
The interior of the RS5 Competition receives a fittingly sporty, yet refined, treatment. The standard Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are both visually striking, featuring a hexagonal stitch pattern reminiscent of exotic supercars, and supremely supportive. The inflatable side bolsters are a welcome addition, providing ample lateral support during aggressive driving, while also offering a comfortable embrace for longer journeys. The Alcantara steering wheel, headliner, and carbon fiber trim lend a sense of occasion and focus to the cockpit. Unlike some rivals that opt for a more overtly glossy, race-car aesthetic, Audi’s use of matte-finished carbon fiber here maintains an elegant, understated luxury that seamlessly blends with the dark interior palette. This nuanced approach to premium sports car interiors speaks volumes about Audi’s design philosophy.
Visually, the changes are more subtle, almost an exercise in refined aggression. The Competition package incorporates elements like a carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, previously available as standalone options, and pairs them with gloss black badging and trim. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve as a dramatic showcase for the massive carbon-ceramic brakes – a significant upgrade that contributes to both performance and durability, particularly in demanding driving scenarios. While these additions are tasteful, one might wish for a more pronounced visual differentiation, especially given the model’s age. However, it’s important to acknowledge the enduring elegance of the second-generation RS5’s design. Introduced in 2017, its clean lines and sophisticated proportions still hold up remarkably well, offering a more timeless aesthetic compared to some of its more flamboyant competitors. This elegant performance car design continues to resonate.
The primary quandary surrounding the RS5 Competition, despite its significant enhancements, is its timing. The Competition package arrives late in the second-generation lifecycle. This raises a pertinent question for potential buyers: will these late-stage improvements be enough to capture the attention of a market that may be anticipating a full redesign? The value proposition of the Competition package, while substantial in terms of driving dynamics, is nevertheless significant. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe commands a price of $78,995, including destination. With the addition of the Competition package, a premium driver assistance suite, and navigation, the as-tested price climbs to $100,565. While a six-figure price tag for an A5-derived model might initially seem steep, it firmly positions the RS5 Competition within the competitive landscape of high-performance luxury coupes, aligning it with the pricing of a well-equipped BMW M4. While the exact pricing for the forthcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 remains undisclosed, it is highly probable that it will fall within a similar, if not higher, price bracket. Therefore, the Audi RS5 Competition, while commanding a premium, now justifies its cost with a truly engaging driving experience that has long been sought after by Audi enthusiasts and performance car buyers alike.
In conclusion, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition represents the realization of what the RS5 has always aspired to be. It’s a car that marries exhilarating speed with a profound sense of driver engagement. The chassis enhancements, sharper steering, and improved auditory feedback create an immersive driving experience that was previously out of reach. Crucially, these upgrades haven’t come at the expense of daily comfort and practicality, and the enhanced engine note provides a genuine connection to the potent V6. As a standalone package, the Audi RS5 Competition stands as a compelling alternative to established benchmarks like the BMW M4. However, the model’s age remains a factor, and the ultimate success of this refined performance machine will depend on whether its newfound dynamic prowess can transcend its generational timeline and persuade buyers that now is indeed the time to experience the ultimate RS5.
Are you ready to experience the pinnacle of Audi’s performance engineering? Explore the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition and schedule your test drive today at your local Audi dealership to feel the difference firsthand.
