Elevating the Drive: The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition – A New Benchmark for Performance and Driver Connection
For years, the Audi RS5 has occupied a curious position in the automotive landscape. It’s undeniably a performance powerhouse, a machine capable of astonishing velocity that could easily humble vehicles costing considerably more. Yet, this formidable capability often arrived with a certain detachment, a sense that the car was performing for you, rather than with you. The immense speed, while objectively impressive, rarely translated into the unadulterated thrill that defines truly engaging driving. It was a car that could conquer a winding road at an alarming rate, but often left its pilot feeling like a passenger on a very fast joyride.
Enter the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. This isn’t a wholly new model, but rather a significant enhancement package—the $16,100 Competition package—applied to the already potent RS5 Coupe. This distinction is vital, especially when compared to rivals known for their own “Competition” badging. Hailing from Ingolstadt, the RS5 Competition inherits the same robust 444-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine as its less focused sibling. However, the real magic lies in the suite of performance-oriented upgrades: a manually adjustable coilover suspension, beefed-up anti-roll bars, a recalibrated, quicker steering rack, and an invigorated exhaust system designed to amplify the V6’s inherent character.
The outcome is a dramatically transformed RS5. It’s not just a car that’s more agile and stable at high speeds; it’s a vehicle that actively invites the driver to participate. Through enhanced road feedback, the RS5 Competition fosters a profound connection between the pilot, the machine, and the tarmac. Now, six years into its second generation, this performance Audi has finally ascended to its pinnacle.
Unpacking the Competition Package: Value Beyond Measure
The $16,100 price tag for the Competition package might seem steep at first glance, but the extensive list of enhancements justifies the investment. Among the standout inclusions are high-performance carbon-ceramic brakes, a meticulously tuned coilover suspension system, robust sport sway bars, and a thrilling RS sport exhaust. Beyond the mechanical prowess, the package also bestows a more aggressive aesthetic, featuring a carbon fiber front splitter, a sculpted rear diffuser, striking 20-inch Y-spoke wheels, and a luxurious interior appointment of Nappa leather seats complemented by an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel. While this isn’t an exhaustive inventory, it clearly demonstrates that the substantial cost of the Competition package translates into a wealth of tangible improvements that significantly elevate the RS5’s driving dynamics and overall appeal.
Crucially, the powertrain remains untouched by these performance upgrades. The 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 continues to churn out a formidable 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. While these figures may fall short of the stratospheric outputs of competitors like the BMW M4 Competition (503 hp) or the outgoing Mercedes-AMG C63 (also 503 hp), the real-world acceleration remains breathtakingly brisk. The 0-60 mph sprint is unchanged at a blistering 3.8 seconds, but the top speed is significantly increased to 180 mph – a full 25 mph beyond the standard RS5 and a notable 6 mph over models equipped with the Dynamic Plus package. This suggests that the engineers at Audi have prioritized a more holistic approach to performance, focusing on how the power is delivered and managed, rather than merely chasing headline horsepower figures.
The Transformative Impact on the Driving Experience
It’s on a challenging, winding road that the true genius of the Competition package reveals itself. From the moment you initiate a turn, the RS5 Competition responds with an eagerness and precision that were previously absent. The coilover suspension, while demonstrably firmer, masterfully contains the RS5’s considerable mass, exceeding 3,900 pounds, allowing for immediate changes in direction without the unwanted body roll or oscillations that could plague lesser vehicles. This newfound agility is significantly amplified by the quicker steering ratio. While it might not offer a deluge of tactile feedback, its unerring precision inspires confidence, enabling the driver to place the car exactly where they intend.
This enhanced agility is further complemented by the sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires and a finely tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. This potent combination effectively harnesses the gains made by the suspension and steering revisions, resulting in exceptional mid-corner grip and the ability to deploy all 444 horsepower with unbridled confidence as you accelerate out of apexes. While the standard RS5 is a highly capable machine in its own right, the Competition’s more communicative chassis allows you to not only witness its impressive pace but to truly feel it, creating a far more intimate connection with the driving experience. This is a crucial distinction for performance car enthusiasts and those seeking a driver-focused luxury coupe.
A Harmonious Blend of Performance and Daily Usability
Despite its significantly firmed-up suspension – which is also 0.39 inches (10 mm) lower – the Audi RS5 Competition does not sacrifice its daily comfort and practicality. In fact, this speaks more to the inherent strengths of the standard RS5, which, in retrospect, could sometimes feel almost too refined and plush for a vehicle positioned as Audi’s most engaging A5 variant. The Competition package strikes a remarkable equilibrium, delivering the sharp dynamics of a bona fide weekend sports car while retaining the composure and comfort required for a comfortable Monday-to-Friday commute. This balanced approach makes the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition price more justifiable for a wider range of buyers.
The Competition package also sees a reduction in the RS5’s sound deadening, a decision that harmonizes beautifully with the inclusion of the more vocal RS sports exhaust. While this means more road and tire noise penetrates the cabin, it’s a characteristic that many enthusiasts crave in a performance vehicle. Gone are the days of Audi artificially pumping engine sounds through the speakers; the RS5 Competition now delivers a genuine, throaty V6 growl, punctuated by exhilarating upshifts that can be modulated through the car’s various drive modes. For those searching for performance car upgrades that enhance the auditory experience, this is a significant win.
Interior Refinements: Where Sport Meets Sophistication
The interior of the RS5 Competition receives a tasteful infusion of sporty elements. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are a highlight, featuring a striking Lamborghini-esque hexagonal stitching pattern, gloss black side accents, and embroidered backrests. Crucially, their inflatable side bolsters provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving while offering ample comfort for longer journeys. This blend of form and function is a hallmark of luxury performance sedans and coupes for sale.
Every Competition model features an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and headliner, along with carbon fiber interior trim. However, unlike the often-glossy finishes found in some competitors, Audi opts for a more understated matte application of the carbon fiber, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with the dark, sophisticated cabin ambiance. This subtle elegance is a signature of Audi’s design philosophy, even in their most performance-oriented offerings.
Exterior Aesthetics: Understated Aggression
Visually, the changes on the Audi RS5 Competition are subtle rather than overt. It essentially bundles desirable options like the carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, already available on the base car, with gloss black badging and trim elements. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are perfectly proportioned and offer an unimpeded view of the massive carbon-ceramic brakes – a clear indicator of the car’s enhanced capabilities. While Audi could have perhaps pushed for more distinctive styling cues, especially given the model’s lifecycle, the existing design remains remarkably timeless.
The second-generation Audi RS5, despite its age, continues to age gracefully. Launched in 2017, its elegant design language ensures it feels contemporary even years after its debut. While it may not possess the flamboyant or boisterous presence of some German rivals, it undeniably presents the most sophisticated and refined aesthetic in its class. This enduring style is a key factor for those considering premium performance vehicles.
The Question of Timing: A Brilliant Update, But is it Too Late?
The primary point of contention surrounding the Audi RS5 Competition is its timing. The addition of the Competition package represents a significant leap forward in driving engagement, but it arrives late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle. This prompts a critical question: will this dramatically improved driving experience be enough to sway buyers towards a model that, on the surface, looks much like it did in 2017? The pursuit of best luxury performance cars often involves considering both the driving dynamics and the modern appeal.
The $16,100 Competition package, despite its substantial cost, undeniably adds significant value. The base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe started at approximately $78,995, including destination fees. With optional packages like the RS driver assistance ($3,000) and navigation ($1,500), a well-equipped tester could easily reach the $100,565 mark. This positions the RS5 Competition squarely in the pricing territory of a fully loaded BMW M4. While official U.S. pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 remains unannounced, it’s reasonable to expect it to compete at or above this figure. Therefore, while the Audi RS5 commands a premium, its newly acquired engaging driving character finally justifies the considerable outlay. This discussion is particularly relevant for those researching sports car pricing and performance coupe value.
The Verdict: An Enthusiast’s Dream, Finally Realized
The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is, quite simply, the car I wished the RS5 had been from its inception. It is remarkably fast, exceptionally agile, and deeply engaging, seamlessly integrating the raw speed of the base model with an immersive driving experience that was previously out of reach. Remarkably, this enhanced performance does not come at the expense of daily comfort or usability. The increased auditory feedback, a consequence of reduced sound deadening and the spirited exhaust, allows you to savor the V6’s character without resorting to artificial amplification. This focus on a more visceral experience is a key differentiator in the performance car market.
In isolation, the Competition package-equipped Audi RS5 stands as a formidable rival to the exceptional BMW M4. However, the car’s age cannot be entirely ignored. Despite the significant strides made by its latest iteration, transforming the RS5 from a mere speed machine into a genuinely exhilarating driver’s car, the overarching question remains: will this belated revelation resonate with buyers, or has the opportune moment passed? For those actively seeking a new performance vehicle or a luxury sports coupe, the RS5 Competition presents a compelling, albeit mature, option.
If you’re ready to experience the pinnacle of Audi’s RS5 performance and discover a driving machine that finally matches its formidable looks with an equally engaging soul, we invite you to explore the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. Contact your local Audi dealer or visit AudiUSA.com to learn more and schedule your test drive.
