The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition: A Decade in the Making, Finally Arriving as the Ultimate Driver’s Audi
For years, the Audi RS5 has occupied a peculiar niche in the performance car landscape. It’s undeniably a formidable machine, capable of stratospheric speeds and the kind of effortless acceleration that can rearrange your internal organs. Yet, despite its prodigious power and razor-sharp looks, a disconnect has often existed between its sheer velocity and the sheer joy of piloting it. It’s been a car that could embarrass many a bona fide sports car on a straight line or a sweeping highway, but on a tight, winding road, it often felt like it was merely carrying out an assignment rather than actively participating in the fun. This perceived lack of driver engagement has been a recurring theme in reviews, a persistent whisper beneath the roar of its potent V6.
Then came the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition, a designation that, for those familiar with Audi’s nuanced nomenclature, signifies the RS5 Coupe equipped with the comprehensive and impactful Competition package. It’s not a standalone model, but rather a significant enhancement that fundamentally reshapes the RS5 experience. Think of it as Audi finally unleashing the full potential of its already potent platform, much like a chef meticulously refining a recipe to achieve perfection. This isn’t about adding more horsepower – the twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 remains a powerhouse, churning out a robust 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. Instead, the magic lies in the meticulously calibrated hardware and software that transform the RS5 from a brutally fast grand tourer into a truly engaging and communicative performance coupe.
This transformation, forged over years of refinement and now culminating in the 2023 model year, positions the Audi RS5 Competition as, arguably, the most compelling RS5 ever conceived. It’s a testament to the fact that true performance isn’t just about raw numbers; it’s about the connection between the driver, the machine, and the road. After six model years in its second generation, the RS5 has finally reached its zenith, delivering an exhilarating driving dynamic that was once merely hinted at.
Unpacking the $16,100 Competition Package: More Than Just Spoilers and Stickers
The $16,100 price tag for the Competition package might initially seem steep, but the value proposition becomes immediately clear when you dissect its components. This isn’t merely an aesthetic dress-up kit; it’s a fundamental overhaul of the RS5’s chassis and dynamics. The package includes a suite of performance-enhancing upgrades that work in concert to elevate the driving experience. High-performance carbon-ceramic brakes are standard, offering prodigious stopping power and fade resistance that inspire confidence during spirited driving. The suspension receives a significant upgrade with manually adjustable coilover suspension, allowing for finer tuning of ride height and damping characteristics. Complementing this are beefed-up sport sway bars, which actively combat body roll and keep the car remarkably flat through corners.
Beyond these mechanical marvels, the Competition package also introduces a more aggressive RS sport exhaust system, promising a more visceral aural accompaniment to the driving experience. Visually, the package hints at the enhanced performance with a carbon fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, elements that contribute to aerodynamic downforce while adding a touch of aggressive flair. The bespoke 20-inch Y-spoke wheels not only look fantastic but also house those impressive carbon-ceramic rotors. Inside, the cabin receives a luxurious and sporty upgrade with Nappa leather seats and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, further immersing the driver in the performance-oriented environment. While this isn’t an exhaustive list of every single item included, it effectively illustrates that for its significant investment, the Competition package delivers tangible, performance-enhancing benefits.
Power Dynamics: Familiar Heartbeat, Refined Execution
While the Competition package dramatically alters the RS5’s character, its core powertrain remains the formidable 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6. This engine, shared with the standard RS5, continues to deliver a potent 444 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. In the current automotive landscape, these figures might not reach the stratospheric outputs of some direct rivals – for instance, the BMW M4 Competition can boast over 500 horsepower. However, it’s crucial to understand that in real-world scenarios, the RS5 Competition feels every bit as quick, if not quicker, than many of its higher-horsepower counterparts. The power delivery is immediate and relentless, propelling the RS5 from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.8 seconds, a figure unchanged from the standard model.
Where the Competition package truly shines is in its elevated top speed. The RS5 Competition is electronically limited to a remarkable 180 mph, a significant 25 mph increase over the base car and a full six miles per hour beyond even an RS5 equipped with the Dynamic Plus package. This capability underscores the car’s readiness for serious high-speed performance, a testament to the engineering that underpins its enhanced dynamic prowess.
The Art of the Corner: Where the RS5 Competition Truly Excels
It’s on a sinuous, winding road where the true brilliance of the Audi RS5 Competition package comes to light. From the moment you initiate a turn, the car responds with an eagerness and precision that was previously absent. The combination of the firmer, manually adjustable coilover suspension and the enhanced sway bars masterfully controls the RS5’s nearly 4,000-pound mass. Body roll is virtually non-existent, allowing for instantaneous changes in direction without the disconcerting lateral heave that can plague less dynamically focused vehicles. This newfound agility is further amplified by a recalibrated steering system. While it might not offer the granular feedback of some purist sports cars, it’s undeniably quicker and more precise, allowing for confident placement of the car through tight bends.
The sticky Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires provide exceptional grip, allowing the RS5 Competition to carry impressive speeds through corners. This grip, combined with a finely tuned eight-speed automatic transmission that seamlessly manages power delivery, ensures that the car can effortlessly deploy its considerable torque upon exiting a corner. While the standard RS5 is undoubtedly a capable performer, the Competition package imbues it with a level of chassis communication that allows the driver to truly feel the car working. You’re no longer just a passenger being shuttled rapidly; you’re an active participant, intimately connected to the road surface and the car’s every maneuver. This is where the “driver engagement” so long desired finally materializes.
Everyday Usability: The Perfect Blend of Sport and Comfort
A common concern with performance upgrades is the potential compromise in daily comfort and usability. However, the Audi RS5 Competition package impressively manages to avoid this pitfall. Despite the noticeably firmer suspension and a ride height that’s been lowered by 0.39 inches (10 mm), the car remains remarkably compliant for everyday commuting. In fact, this improved balance arguably highlights a slight over-refinement in the standard RS5. For a vehicle positioned as Audi’s most engaging A5 variant, the base car sometimes felt a touch too soft. The RS5 Competition, however, strikes a sweet spot, offering the thrilling dynamics of a dedicated sports car for weekend excursions while remaining a perfectly comfortable and civilized companion for the daily grind.
The reduction in sound deadening, a deliberate decision in the Competition package, further enhances the sensory experience. This pairs harmoniously with the RS sport exhaust, creating a more engaging soundtrack. While a slight increase in road and tire noise might be noticeable, it’s a welcome trade-off for a sports car that should, by its very nature, sound alive. Gone are the days of artificially piped-in engine notes; the RS5 Competition now delivers a genuinely throaty V6 growl, punctuated by explosive upshifts that can be modulated through the various drive modes. This allows the driver to tailor the auditory experience from a relatively subdued hum to a full-blown performance symphony.
Inside the Cockpit: A Refined Sporty Sanctuary
The interior enhancements of the Competition package further solidify the RS5’s sporting intentions. The Nappa leather and Dinamica-trimmed seats are a highlight, featuring a striking Lamborghini-esque hexagonal stitch pattern and gloss black accents. The embroidered backrests add a touch of bespoke luxury. Crucially, these seats are not just for show; their aggressively bolstered side sections provide excellent lateral support during spirited driving, keeping occupants securely planted. Yet, they also offer ample room and comfort for longer journeys, demonstrating a thoughtful balance between form and function.
The Alcantara steering wheel, headliner, and carbon-fiber trim pieces are standard on all Competition models. Audi’s approach here is particularly elegant. Unlike the often glossy, high-contrast finishes found in some competitors, the RS5 Competition utilizes a more subdued, matte finish for its carbon fiber. This allows the lightweight material to blend seamlessly with the dark, sophisticated cabin, exuding a sense of understated performance rather than overt showmanship.
Exterior Design: Subtle Evolution, Timeless Elegance
Visually, the changes brought about by the Audi RS5 Competition package are more nuanced than dramatic. The package integrates previously optional elements like the carbon-fiber front splitter and rear diffuser, along with gloss black badging and trim, into the standard design. The 20-inch Y-spoke wheels are a standout feature, perfectly complementing the car’s athletic proportions and offering a tantalizing glimpse of the impressive carbon-ceramic brakes behind them. However, in terms of bold, in-your-face differentiation, Audi could have potentially pushed the envelope further, especially considering the model’s age.
Despite this, the second-generation Audi RS5 continues to age remarkably well. Introduced for the 2017 model year, its design language remains timeless and elegant, allowing it to hold its own against newer rivals. While it might not possess the overt flashiness of some BMW M or Mercedes-AMG offerings, its understated sophistication makes it arguably the most visually refined choice in its segment.
The Age Factor: A Compelling Update, But Is It Too Late?
The most significant point of contemplation regarding the Audi RS5 Competition is its timing. The addition of the Competition package represents a substantial leap forward in the car’s driving dynamics, finally delivering the engaging experience that enthusiasts have craved. However, this pivotal update arrives quite late in the second-generation car’s lifecycle. This naturally raises a critical question: will an undeniably superior driving experience be enough to lure buyers towards a model that, visually, shares much of its DNA with a car that debuted nearly a decade ago?
The substantial value offered by the $16,100 Competition package, despite its hefty price, is undoubtedly a key factor. A base 2023 Audi RS5 Coupe, including destination fees, starts around the $79,000 mark. My test vehicle, equipped with the Competition package, the optional RS driver assistance package, and the navigation package, tipped the scales at just over $100,000. While a six-figure Audi based on the A5 platform might still be a conceptual hurdle for some, this pricing is competitive within its segment. A fully loaded BMW M4 can easily reach similar figures, and the anticipated U.S. pricing for the upcoming Mercedes-AMG C63 is expected to be at or above this price point. Therefore, while the Audi RS5 commands a premium sum, it finally has the driving engagement to unequivocally justify that expenditure.
The Verdict: The RS5 Competition Audi Has Always Been
In conclusion, the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition is the car many of us have wished the RS5 would be all along. It’s a masterful synthesis of blistering speed, razor-sharp agility, and deeply satisfying driver engagement. It takes the inherent capabilities of the base RS5 and elevates them to a level of visceral connection previously out of reach. Crucially, this enhanced performance comes without sacrificing everyday comfort or usability. The strategic reduction in sound deadening means you get to truly appreciate the V6’s authentic, guttural soundtrack, eschewing artificial enhancements for genuine acoustic pleasure.
Viewed in isolation, the Competition package-equipped Audi RS5 stands as a formidable contender against benchmarks like the BMW M4. However, the undeniable age of the platform remains a significant consideration. Despite how its latest updates have finally transformed the RS5 from a mere quick car into a genuinely engaging driving machine, the ultimate question lingers: will buyers respond to this late-stage renaissance, or has the market moved on, leaving this ultimate expression of the RS5 a brilliant, albeit belated, masterpiece?
If you’re a driver who values a cohesive and exhilarating driving experience, and you’re looking for a performance coupe that masterfully blends everyday usability with thrilling dynamics, we invite you to explore the 2023 Audi RS5 Competition. Visit your local Audi dealer or schedule a test drive to experience firsthand the culmination of years of engineering refinement and discover if this is the ultimate performance Audi for you.
