The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: Reimagining Driver Engagement in a Performance Coupe
For a decade, the Audi RS5 has occupied a peculiar space in the high-performance automotive landscape. It has consistently delivered blistering straight-line speed and impressive cornering prowess, often outgunning rivals with significantly higher price tags. Yet, this remarkable capability has, for too long, felt somewhat detached, a symphony of engineering that played out without requiring the driver to fully participate. The machine was so competent, so seemingly effortless, that the thrill often resided in the idea of its speed rather than the visceral sensation of wielding it. This paradox, a hallmark of Audi’s relentless pursuit of refinement, has left many enthusiasts yearning for a more direct connection to the road and the machine beneath them.
Enter the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition, a designation that signifies not a distinct model, but rather the introduction of a deeply transformative $16,100 Competition package for the already potent RS5 Coupe. This isn’t merely an aesthetic tweak or a minor power bump; it’s a fundamental re-engineering aimed squarely at
elevating the driving experience. By incorporating a suite of carefully curated enhancements, Audi has finally unlocked the full potential of the RS5 platform, transforming it from a formidable grand tourer into a truly exhilarating driver’s instrument. After ten years immersed in the automotive industry, I can confidently state that the RS5 Competition represents the pinnacle of the second-generation RS5’s evolution, finally delivering the engagement that its performance has always promised.
The core of the RS5 Competition’s appeal lies not in a dramatic surge of horsepower, but in a meticulously calibrated recalibration of its dynamics. Retaining the formidable 444-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine, the Competition package focuses its considerable energies on the chassis, suspension, and steering. This results in a more responsive, communicative, and ultimately, a more engaging vehicle that feels alive beneath the driver. It’s a testament to Audi’s ability to refine its established formula, proving that even a mature platform can be revitalized with focused engineering.
Unpacking the Competition Package: A Symphony of Upgrades
The $16,100 price tag for the Competition package might initially seem steep, but a closer examination reveals a comprehensive array of performance-enhancing and visually striking additions that justify the investment. This isn’t a collection of bolt-ons; it’s a holistic approach to transforming the RS5’s character.
At the heart of the dynamic improvements is the manually adjustable coilover suspension. This is a significant departure from the more comfort-oriented setup of the standard RS5. These coilovers allow for precise tuning, enabling the RS5 Competition to sit 0.39 inches (10 mm) lower, contributing to a reduced center of gravity and sharper handling. Complementing this are beefed-up sport sway bars, which significantly reduce body roll during cornering, keeping the car remarkably flat and stable even under aggressive provocation.
The steering system receives a crucial update as well. While the standard RS5’s steering is precise, the Competition package introduces a quicker ratio, reducing the amount of lock needed to initiate a turn. This translates to a more immediate response from the front wheels, making the car feel more eager to change direction. While it doesn’t offer an overwhelming amount of tactile feedback, its enhanced directness significantly contributes to the overall sense of driver connection.
The audible experience is equally transformed. A louder, more aggressive RS sport exhaust system is a standard inclusion, promising a richer, more resonant soundtrack. This, combined with reduced sound deadening within the cabin, means the V6’s impressive bark is now more readily apparent, creating a more immersive and exciting acoustic environment.
Beyond the core performance upgrades, the Competition package also includes:
Carbon-ceramic brakes: These high-performance stoppers provide exceptional stopping power and fade resistance, crucial for track days or spirited driving on winding roads.
RS sport exhaust system: Delivering a more visceral auditory experience that complements the car’s enhanced dynamics.
Carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser: These aerodynamic enhancements not only contribute to the car’s aggressive aesthetic but also improve downforce at higher speeds.
20-inch Y-spoke wheels: These lightweight wheels reduce unsprung mass and contribute to the car’s athletic stance.
Nappa leather and Dinamica upholstered seats: Offering a premium feel and exceptional lateral support, crucial for holding occupants in place during spirited driving.
Alcantara steering wheel and headliner: Providing a tactile and visual reminder of the car’s performance-oriented nature.
The sheer volume of high-performance hardware included in the Competition package underscores its value proposition. While the upfront cost is substantial, it bundles features that would likely cost significantly more if optioned individually on a lesser RS5.
Performance Refined: Beyond the Horsepower Figures
Audi has wisely chosen not to tamper with the RS5’s already potent powertrain. The twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 continues to produce a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures may not match the stratospheric output of some direct competitors, such as the BMW M4 Competition (503 hp) or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63 (503 hp), they are more than adequate for real-world performance. The RS5 Competition rockets from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 3.8 seconds, and its top speed is uncapped at a remarkable 180 mph, a significant increase over the standard RS5’s electronically limited 155 mph. This elevated top speed, combined with the chassis enhancements, transforms the RS5 from a quick car into a truly formidable performance machine, capable of exhilarating high-speed cruising.
The true revelation, however, unfolds when the RS5 Competition encounters a challenging stretch of asphalt. From the very first turn-in, the difference is palpable. The firmer chassis, a direct result of the revised suspension and sway bars, eliminates the slight vagueness that could sometimes be felt in the standard car. The RS5 Competition dives into corners with an eagerness and precision that were previously absent. The car feels planted, stable, and remarkably balanced, allowing the driver to exploit the immense grip offered by the sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires.
The eight-speed automatic transmission, expertly tuned to work in concert with the chassis improvements, shifts with lightning speed and decisive logic. It seamlessly delivers power out of corners, allowing the driver to maintain momentum and accelerate with confidence. The communication between the driver, the car, and the road is significantly enhanced. You can feel the subtle nuances of the road surface through the steering wheel and the seat of your pants, providing a level of feedback that was previously missing. This makes the RS5 Competition not just a fast car, but a truly engaging one, where every input is met with an immediate and satisfying response.
Daily Usability: The Balancing Act Achieved
One of the most remarkable achievements of the Audi RS5 Competition is its ability to enhance driving engagement without sacrificing everyday usability and comfort. This is a delicate balancing act that many performance cars struggle to achieve, but the RS5 Competition pulls it off with aplomb. While the suspension is undeniably firmer than the standard car’s, it doesn’t descend into harshness. The RS5 Competition remains a perfectly comfortable companion for the daily commute, capable of absorbing road imperfections with a composure that belies its sporting intentions.
In fact, one could argue that the standard RS5 was perhaps too refined for its intended purpose as Audi’s most engaging A5 variant. The Competition package strikes a much more harmonious chord, offering the best of both worlds: the composure and comfort of a premium grand tourer, coupled with the razor-sharp responses and dynamic flair of a dedicated sports car. This makes the RS5 Competition a car that can be enjoyed on a spirited weekend drive and then seamlessly transition into a comfortable and practical daily driver.
The auditory experience also benefits from this refined approach. The decision to reduce sound deadening, while increasing road and tire noise, is a welcome one for enthusiasts. Gone are the days of Audi pumping artificial engine noise through the speakers. Instead, the RS5 Competition delivers a genuine, throaty V6 roar, complete with satisfying pops and bangs on upshifts. The intensity of this soundtrack can be modulated through the various drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the experience to their preference – from a more subdued rumble for city driving to a full-throated symphony for open roads. This authentic aural engagement adds another layer to the overall driving pleasure.
An Interior That Rewards the Driver
The Competition package’s interior enhancements further solidify its driver-focused ethos. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are not just visually appealing with their striking hexagonal stitching pattern and gloss black trim, but they are also exceptionally supportive. The inflatable side bolsters provide snug containment during aggressive cornering, while still offering a comfortable seating position for longer journeys.
The ubiquitous Alcantara material adorns the steering wheel and headliner, lending a tactile and upscale feel to the cabin. Unlike the often glossy finishes found in some competitors, Audi opts for a more elegant matte finish for the carbon fiber trim, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the dark, sophisticated interior. This subtle approach to sportiness underscores Audi’s commitment to refined luxury.
Exterior Styling: A Subtle Evolution
Visually, the changes brought about by the Competition package are more evolutionary than revolutionary. The carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, while available as standalone options on the base RS5, are part of the package here, adding a touch of aggressive intent. Gloss black badging and trim further enhance the car’s sporting credentials. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are aesthetically pleasing and provide an unimpeded view of the colossal carbon-ceramic brakes.
However, this is an area where a more dramatic differentiation might have been appreciated, especially considering the second-generation RS5’s considerable age. While the RS5’s design remains undeniably elegant and timeless, its visual cues have been present since the 2017 model year. In a segment where rivals often undergo more significant styling updates, the RS5 Competition relies heavily on its performance credentials to stand out.
The Age Factor: A Lingering Question
The most significant internal debate surrounding the RS5 Competition revolves around its age. While the Competition package is a brilliant addition that finally elevates the driving experience, it arrives quite late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle. This raises a pertinent question: will a significantly improved driving engagement be enough to capture the attention of buyers when the car’s fundamental design is approaching a decade old?
The $16,100 Competition package, while expensive, undeniably adds substantial value. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe starts at $78,995, with destination fees included. My test vehicle, equipped with the Competition package, an optional driver assistance package ($3,000), and a navigation package ($1,500), pushed the total price to $100,565. This positions the RS5 Competition firmly in premium territory, a price point that aligns with a fully loaded BMW M4. While pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 in the U.S. is yet to be announced, it is expected to be in a similar, if not higher, bracket. Therefore, the Audi RS5, despite its venerable age, now justifies its premium asking price with a driving experience that finally lives up to its performance capabilities.
Conclusion: A Driver’s RS5, Finally Realized
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is, quite simply, the car I have always wished the RS5 had been. It is a harmonious blend of blistering speed, exceptional agility, and profound driver engagement. It takes the inherent capability of the base RS5 and imbues it with a level of connection and communication that was previously out of reach. The firmer chassis, sharper steering, and more vocal exhaust system work in concert to create a truly exhilarating driving experience, one that encourages spirited driving and rewards precise inputs.
Crucially, this enhanced performance does not come at the expense of comfort or practicality. The RS5 Competition remains a highly usable daily driver, capable of effortlessly transitioning from weekend warrior to weekday commuter. The reduced sound deadening allows for a more authentic and thrilling auditory experience, without sacrificing the refinement expected of an Audi.
In isolation, the RS5 Competition stands as a compelling alternative to established rivals like the BMW M4. However, the lingering question of the RS5’s age cannot be ignored. Despite its latest updates, which finally transform it into a genuinely engaging driver’s car, the market’s response remains to be seen. Has this late-cycle enhancement arrived too late to fundamentally alter perceptions?
For those who prioritize an authentic and deeply rewarding driving experience, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition represents a significant leap forward. It’s an opportunity to experience the pinnacle of the second-generation RS5’s development, a car that finally delivers on the promise of its performance.
If you’re ready to experience a new level of driver engagement and discover what the Audi RS5 Competition truly has to offer, we invite you to explore financing options and schedule your personal test drive at your local Audi dealer today.
