The 2023 Audi RS5 Sportback gets a performance boost thanks to the addition of the Competition Plus pack.
When Audi’s prestigious A5 sedan fell into the hands of the Audi Sport performance division, it resulted in the incredibly fast Audi RS5. The carmaker’s RS badge is equivalent to the AMG badge for Mercedes and M badge for BMW.
Audi’s performance-oriented lineup is one of the best in the segment. Thanks to the signature quattro all-wheel-drive system, the cars can deliver optimum performance in any road condition. The Audi RS5 first debuted in April 2013, and it was powered by a massive, naturally aspirated V8 that produced nearly 450 HP. Since then, the vehicle has evolved, and although the engine has become smaller, the enhanced power figures are jaw-dropping. The model is available as the two-door RS5 Coupe and the four-door RS5 Sportback
The 2023 iteration of the RS5 Sportback is much improved than its predecessors, and the inclusion of the Competition Plus package is a cherry on top.
For an additional cost, the Competition Plus adds in a louder exhaust and some sticky performance-oriented tires, and minor chassis modifications resulting in an excellent driver’s car.
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The 2023 Audi RS5 Competition Plus adds some minor revisions to the car, making it better as a whole. The power output of 444 HP remains identical to its predecessor, and even the 2.9-liter V6 engine is similar in tune. The torque output is of 438 lb-ft which is a healthy figure for a car of this proportion, but the most significant difference between the two happens to be the top speed. The sedan was previously electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph, but the Competition Plus package removed the restriction, allowing it to reach to 180 mph. Although this trim is offered at an additional price of $16,100, it gets some additions and deletes in terms of features. The addition of a sports exhaust means that the exhaust note is much louder and aggressive than ever before. Also, the carmaker has removed nearly 18 pounds of noise-insulating material from the cabin meaning that drivers can enjoy this exhaust note. The RS5 still uses the 8-speed automatic transmission, and the power is sent to all four wheels through the quattro all-wheel-drive system. The gear ratios are slightly tweaked with new ratios that help improve acceleration off the line, meaning the Competition Plus shaves off a full tenth of a second to 60mph compared to the standard car.
Along with technological advancements, Audi also adds some great chassis updates. Although the quattro all-wheel-drive system sends power to the rear wheels only, the revised mechanical rear differential makes it more rear-wheel-drive biased. The steering ratio has also been revised, giving better handling characteristics, and Audi likes to call it sports direct steering. The vehicle also uses coil-over springs that have been reduced by 0.4 inches from the standard RS5, and drivers can reduce this ride height by a further 0.4 inches if and when needed. The springs are stiffer, allowing the car to the grid through corners, and the inclusion of Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires on the 20-inch wheels increases the automobile’s appeal. The cosmetic changes to this beast include carbon fiber hood, wing mirrors, and even the front splitter and rear diffuser are all finished in carbon fiber in the interest of weight saving. It is difficult to differentiate the standard RS5 from the Competition Plus as the changes are minor but functional.
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While increasing the sporty quotient, Audi has not sacrificed the practicality that the Sportback offers. It continues to offer enough space for two adults in the rear seats. Although the sloping roofline might encroach into the headroom for rear passengers, occupants below 6 feet can fit in comfortably. The interior of the Competition Plus adds a lot of gloss black elements and some carbon fiber inserts to add a touch of sportiness. The vehicle also gets a 10.1-inch touch screen infotainment system which is exceptionally sleek and works like a charm. The screen has basic functionality like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which can be operated wirelessly. The sports display shows the much-needed g-force meter and boost pressure. The best aspect of the interior has been carried forward from the standard RS5, like the digital driver’s gauge, which displays lots of driving dynamics data and some features like wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control.
Overall the 2023 Audi RS5 Sportback, with the addition of the Competition Plus package, features major improvements in the overall dynamics. The standard RS5 retails around $77,000, and the inclusion of the Competition Plus package adds in another $16,100. That makes it a bit dearer to its closest rivals in the game like the BMW M3 Competition that offer more power for your money. However, there is something about the Audi's RS5 Sportback that innately draws you in and manages to excite you just as much. We reckon it's that sleek four-door coupe styling.
A silent soul who dares to dream, Vrushali Padia is passionate about writing ever since her college days and has written in diverse niches. She is now an Electronics Engineer and a Writer. When she is not writing, she's exploring.