The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: Reclaiming the Thrill of the Drive
For a considerable time, the Audi RS5 has represented a curious paradox in the automotive landscape. It has consistently been a marvel of engineering, a machine that effortlessly devoured asphalt at speeds that would shame many dedicated sports cars, all while demanding little more than a light touch from its pilot. While its blistering pace was undeniable, a certain visceral connection, that intangible spark of pure driving elation, often felt just beyond its grasp. This is where the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition steps into the spotlight, not just as an evolution, but as a redefinition of what the RS5 can be.
This isn’t merely a new trim level; it’s a meticulously crafted performance enhancement package. For those seeking the ultimate Audi RS5 driver engagement, this Competition designation, specifically the $16,100 Competition package applied to the RS5 Coupe, transforms the already potent machine into something truly special. It’s important to note the nomenclature, a nod to a certain Bavarian competitor’s penchant for similar naming conventions. Yet, despite its Ingolstadt heritage, the philosophy behind this enhanced RS5 is clear: elevate the driving experience without sacrificing the inherent capabilities.
At its heart, the RS5 Competition retains the formidable 444 horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6. However, the magic lies in the accompanying hardware. Manually adjustable coilover suspension, beefed-up sway bars, a recalibrated and significantly quicker steering ratio, and a more vocal exhaust system coalesce to create an entirely new dynamic. The result? An RS5 that is not only more agile and composed at elevated speeds but, crucially, offers a level of communication between car and driver that was previously missing. Six years into its second generation, the best RS5 has finally arrived.
The $16,100 investment in the Competition package is substantial, but it yields an impressive array of upgrades. The inclusion of carbon-ceramic brakes is a significant performance enhancer, promising superior stopping power and fade resistance. The manually adjustable coilover suspension allows for fine-tuning of ride height and damping, essential for optimizing handling. Upgraded sport sway bars reduce body roll, further enhancing cornering prowess. And then there’s the RS sport exhaust, a soundtrack to the performance, promising a more visceral auditory experience.
Beyond the mechanical enhancements, the Competition package also bestows aesthetic refinements. A carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser contribute to both aerodynamic efficiency and visual aggression. The striking 20-inch Y-spoke wheels not only look the part but also provide a clear view of those impressive carbon-ceramic stoppers. Inside, Nappa leather seats with Dinamica inserts offer supportive bolstering, while the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel provides a tactile connection to the driver. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it clearly illustrates that while the price is premium, the value proposition is equally compelling.
One might assume that with such significant performance upgrades, power output would be a primary focus. However, the 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque from the twin-turbo V6 remain unchanged. While this figure might fall short of the headline numbers from rivals like the BMW M4 Competition or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63, in real-world driving scenarios, the RS5 Competition feels every bit as rapid. Its 0-60 mph time remains a brisk 3.8 seconds, but the top speed is where the Competition package truly shines, increasing the limiter to a substantial 180 mph, a significant jump from the standard car and even outstripping models equipped with Audi’s Dynamic Plus package. For enthusiasts considering a performance luxury coupe, this elevated top speed is a compelling differentiator.
However, raw numbers only tell part of the story. It’s on a winding ribbon of asphalt, where the road carves through undulating terrain, that the true brilliance of the Competition package reveals itself. The moment you initiate a turn-in, the RS5 Competition responds with an eagerness that was previously elusive. The coilover suspension, while noticeably firmer, masterfully controls the car’s nearly 4,000-pound mass. Body movements are minimized, allowing for near-instantaneous changes in direction without any unsettling oscillations. This newfound agility is intrinsically linked to the quicker steering. While it doesn’t bombard the driver with excessive feedback, its precision is undeniable, allowing for more confident placement of the car. This is a critical aspect for anyone prioritizing driver-focused sports car upgrades.
The RS5 Competition pairs its enhanced chassis and steering with sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires and a finely tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. This potent combination extracts the maximum benefit from the suspension improvements. The result is a car that exhibits remarkable mid-corner grip, enabling drivers to carry more speed and confidently deploy all 444 horses as they exit a bend. While the standard RS5 is undoubtedly a capable performer, the Competition’s firmer chassis acts as a conduit, transmitting the sensation of speed and grip directly to the driver’s senses. For those searching for Audi RS5 handling improvements, this package delivers in spades.
Despite the firmer suspension setup, which also lowers the car by 0.39 inches (10 mm), the added capabilities of the Audi RS5 Competition do not come at the expense of daily comfort and practicality. Ironically, this statement speaks volumes about the standard RS5, which, in its pursuit of refinement, occasionally felt a touch too placid for a performance variant. The Competition package, however, strikes a more harmonious balance. It retains the plushness necessary for a comfortable commute, yet on the weekends, it transforms into a thoroughly capable sports car, ready to devour any challenging road. This duality is a hallmark of a truly versatile luxury performance sedan (or in this case, coupe).
A significant, and welcome, change brought about by the Competition package is the reduction in sound deadening. This decision aligns perfectly with the integration of the more aggressive RS sport exhaust. While the diminished noise isolation means that more road and tire noise permeates the cabin, it’s a trade-off that performance car enthusiasts will readily embrace. A thrilling sports car, after all, should not be anodyne. Gone are the days when Audi relied on artificial engine notes piped through the speakers. The RS5 Competition delivers a genuine, throaty V6 roar, punctuated by explosive upshifts. The intensity of this soundtrack can be modulated through the various drive modes, offering a spectrum of auditory experiences, from a subtle rumble to a full-blown symphony of mechanical ferocity. This focus on exhaust note enhancement and cabin sound profile contributes significantly to the overall driving engagement.
The interior of the Competition RS5 is a testament to thoughtful, driver-centric design. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are not only visually appealing with their distinctive hexagonal stitching (reminiscent of exotic supercars) but also provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving. The inflatable side bolsters can be adjusted for a snugger fit on spirited drives or relaxed for more comfortable cruising. The Alcantara steering wheel, headliner, and carbon fiber trim create an environment that feels both sporty and sophisticated. Unlike the sometimes ostentatious gloss finishes found in some competitors, Audi opts for a more understated matte finish for the carbon fiber, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into the dark, focused cabin environment. This attention to detail is what sets apart premium performance vehicle interiors.
Visually, the changes on the Audi RS5 Competition are subtle rather than dramatic. It essentially bundles desirable options like the carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, available on the standard car, with gloss black badging and trim. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are aesthetically pleasing and complement the car’s proportions, while also showcasing the impressive carbon-ceramic brakes. One could argue that Audi could have pushed the visual differentiation further, especially given the model’s age. However, the understated elegance of the second-generation RS5 has aged remarkably well. Introduced in 2017, its design remains contemporary, offering a refined alternative to the more flamboyant styling of some rivals. It’s a testament to timeless design, making it an enduring choice for those who appreciate understated automotive design.
The age of the second-generation RS5 is, perhaps, its most significant point of contention. While the addition of the Competition package is undeniably a brilliant move, elevating the driving experience to new heights, it arrives late in the model’s lifecycle. This begs the question: will an enhanced driving dynamic be enough to capture the attention of buyers when the exterior styling is largely familiar from its 2017 debut? The answer likely lies in the value proposition of the Competition package itself.
The $16,100 price tag for the Competition package, while significant, is justified by the sheer breadth of enhancements it brings. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe starts at $78,995, including destination fees. A fully optioned tester, including the Competition package, the RS Driver Assistance package, and the Navigation package, approaches the $100,000 mark. While a six-figure price for an A5-derived platform might seem steep, it aligns with the pricing strategy of its direct competitors. A comparably equipped BMW M4 Competition often reaches similar figures, and while pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 in the U.S. is yet to be announced, it’s expected to command a similar or higher price. Thus, the Audi RS5, with its newfound driving engagement, finally justifies its premium positioning in the high-performance luxury car market.
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is, in essence, the car the RS5 was always meant to be. It’s a machine that masterfully blends exhilarating speed with a deeply engaging driving experience, offering a level of driver immersion that was previously out of reach. Despite its more focused chassis, it sacrifices little in terms of daily comfort and usability. And with its heightened exhaust note, you’re treated to a genuine V6 symphony, not a synthesized imitation. For those seeking the pinnacle of Audi RS5 performance, this Competition package is the definitive choice.
In isolation, the Audi RS5 Competition stands as a formidable contender against established benchmarks like the BMW M4. However, the overarching question of the model’s age remains. While the latest updates have finally transformed the RS5 from a mere quick car into a genuinely engaging driver’s machine, the challenge lies in capturing buyer attention at this stage of its lifecycle.
If you’re ready to experience the ultimate expression of the Audi RS5’s capabilities and elevate your driving adventures, explore the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition for sale at your local Audi dealership. Don’t miss the opportunity to test drive this remarkable evolution and rediscover the pure joy of the drive.
