Audi RS5 Competition: A Decade in the Making, Finally Delivering Driver Delight
For nearly ten years, the Audi RS5 has occupied a peculiar position in the performance car landscape. It’s undeniably, unequivocally fast. Whether you’re opting for the sleek coupe or the practical Sportback, the RS5 consistently delivers blistering acceleration and tenacious grip, capable of outgunning cars far more exotic and expensive. Yet, for all its prowess, a subtle disconnect often pervaded the driving experience. The sheer velocity was always on tap, but the visceral engagement, the feeling of being truly connected to the machine and the asphalt beneath, remained somewhat elusive. It was a master of speed, but not always a maestro of enjoyment.
This inherent dichotomy is precisely what the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition, particularly when equipped with the comprehensive Competition package, aims to rectify. And after a decade of subtle evolution, it feels like Audi has finally hit the sweet spot. This isn’t a radical redesign, but rather a meticulously honed iteration that prioritizes the driver above all else. The core of this transformation lies in the $16,100 Competition package – a significant investment, but one that fundamentally redefines the RS5’s character. It injects a level of dynamic sophistication that was, until now, tantalizingly close but just out of reach.
At its heart, the RS5 Competition retains the potent 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures might not shatter the benchmarks set by some direct rivals, especially considering the current market for high-performance sedans and coupes, they are more than sufficient to deliver exhilarating real-world performance. The 0-60 mph sprint remains a brisk 3.8 seconds, but the Competition package unlocks a higher top speed of 180 mph, a full 25 mph above the standard RS5, and a notable increase even over models equipped with the Dynamic Plus package. This uptick in ultimate velocity underscores Audi’s intention to push the RS5’s performance envelope, but it’s the way it achieves and utilizes that speed that truly sets the Competition apart.
The magic of the Competition package truly unfolds when the road begins to twist and turn. From the first turn of the wheel, the RS5 Competition feels dramatically more alive. The standard coilover suspension, a key component of the package, is noticeably firmer, but instead of imparting a harsh, unforgiving ride, it expertly controls the considerable mass of the nearly 4,000-pound coupe. Body roll is significantly reduced, and the car pivots with an eagerness that was previously absent. This newfound agility is complemented by recalibrated steering, which offers a quicker ratio and a more direct response. While some might yearn for even more granular feedback through the steering wheel, the precision and responsiveness are undeniable improvements, allowing the driver to place the car with confidence and surgical accuracy.
This enhanced dynamic capability is further amplified by a carefully orchestrated powertrain and drivetrain synergy. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is tuned to work seamlessly with the firmer chassis and quicker steering, ensuring that power is delivered precisely when and where it’s needed. The sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, a standard feature on the Competition, provide exceptional levels of grip, allowing the RS5 to carry impressive speed through corners. As you exit a bend, the car effortlessly deploys its ample torque, propelling you forward with thrilling immediacy. This is where the RS5 Competition truly shines – it allows you to not only feel the immense pace but also to actively participate in its creation. The more communicative chassis, a direct result of the stiffer suspension and beefier anti-roll bars, provides a constant stream of information about the road surface, transforming a brisk drive into an engaging ballet of man and machine.
One of the most surprising aspects of the RS5 Competition is how it manages to balance this heightened performance with a degree of daily usability that belies its aggressive tuning. While the suspension is undoubtedly firmer, it doesn’t punish occupants on longer journeys. This achievement speaks volumes not only about the Competition package but also about the inherent refinement of the base RS5, which perhaps, in its earlier iterations, was too refined for its own good. The Competition package strikes a commendable equilibrium, offering a thoroughly capable sports car for spirited weekend excursions without sacrificing the comfort and practicality required for the Monday-to-Friday commute. This dual-purpose capability is a significant selling point for those seeking a high-performance vehicle that can seamlessly integrate into their everyday lives, avoiding the common compromise of sacrificing comfort for performance.
Another impactful change brought about by the Competition package is a deliberate reduction in sound deadening, a move that perfectly complements the inclusion of the RS sport exhaust system. While some might lament the increase in road and tire noise, for a car designed to elicit an emotional response, a certain level of auditory theatre is not only welcome but essential. This isn’t the artificial, piped-in engine sound of yesteryear; instead, you’re treated to the genuine, sonorous growl of the V6, punctuated by explosive upshifts. The ability to modulate this auditory experience through different drive modes adds another layer of user control, allowing drivers to tailor the RS5’s soundtrack to their preference, from a civilized rumble to a full-throated roar.
Inside, the Competition package introduces a host of subtle yet significant enhancements that elevate the cabin’s sporting ambiance. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are a prime example, featuring a striking hexagonal stitch pattern reminiscent of high-end Italian exotics. These seats offer exceptional lateral support, crucial for keeping occupants planted during spirited driving, while still providing ample comfort for everyday use. The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, headliner, and carbon-fiber trim create a tactile and visually appealing environment. Unlike the sometimes ostentatious glossy finishes found in some competitors, Audi opts for a more understated matte finish on the carbon fiber, allowing it to blend harmoniously with the dark, sophisticated cabin. This focus on subtle elegance is a hallmark of Audi’s interior design philosophy, even in their most performance-oriented models.
Visually, the changes on the exterior of the RS5 Competition are more nuanced than dramatic. The package effectively bundles desirable options such as the carbon-fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, which were previously available separately. Gloss black badging and trim add a touch of sinister aggression, and the 20-inch Y-spoke wheels not only enhance the car’s stance but also provide an unimpeded view of the massive carbon-ceramic brakes – a crucial performance upgrade. While the exterior enhancements are tasteful, one could argue that Audi might have explored more distinct visual cues to differentiate the Competition model further, especially given the second-generation RS5’s established design language. However, it’s also a testament to the enduring elegance of the original design that, even years after its debut, the RS5 still possesses a contemporary and sophisticated aesthetic that holds its own against newer rivals. It remains a refined and understated choice in a segment often characterized by more flamboyant styling.
The age of the second-generation RS5 is perhaps the most complex aspect to reconcile. While the Competition package injects a much-needed dose of driver engagement, it arrives relatively late in the model’s lifecycle. This prompts a crucial question: Will these significant driving dynamics upgrades be enough to captivate buyers, or has the car’s age diminished its overall appeal in the eyes of the discerning consumer? The value proposition of the $16,100 Competition package is undeniable, providing a substantial uplift in performance and driver connection for its price.
The 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe, prior to any optional extras, carries a starting MSRP of $78,995, including destination. My test vehicle, equipped with the aforementioned Competition package, the $3,000 RS driver assistance package, and the $1,500 navigation package, tipped the scales at a considerable $100,565. While a six-figure Audi based on the A5 platform might still seem like a significant sum, this pricing aligns squarely with well-equipped competitors like the BMW M4 Competition. While official U.S. pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 remains undisclosed, it is widely anticipated to occupy a similar or even higher price bracket. Therefore, the Audi RS5, with its newly refined driving dynamics, finally commands a premium price with commensurate driving credentials to back it up.
In conclusion, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition represents the car many enthusiasts have been waiting for – a high-performance coupe that seamlessly blends ferocious speed with genuine driver engagement. It takes the inherent capabilities of the base RS5 and imbues them with a newfound sense of connection and dynamism, offering an immersive driving experience that was previously just a whisper away. Despite its firmer chassis, it remarkably retains its daily comfort and practicality, all while allowing you to savor the authentic, guttural symphony of its V6 engine. In isolation, the RS5 Competition stands as a compelling challenger to established rivals like the BMW M4. However, the lingering question of its model cycle age remains. Nevertheless, for those seeking an elegantly styled, exceptionally capable, and now truly engaging performance coupe, the Audi RS5 Competition offers a compelling proposition.
If you’re a discerning driver who values a finely tuned chassis, responsive steering, and a visceral connection to the road, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition merits a serious look. We encourage you to visit your local Audi dealer or connect with an Audi brand specialist to schedule a test drive and experience firsthand the decade of refinement that has finally culminated in the most engaging RS5 yet
