2023 Audi RS5 Competition Package Is Even Angrier Than Usual. Audi has launched the competition plus pack for the 2023 RS5 and RS5 Sportback, which features an improved exhaust and chassis, but no power upgrade. New components help reduce weight and improve driving dynamics.
Audi adds an optional Competition package for the RS5 that dials up the performance. The Competition package includes more-aggressive suspension tuning, sticky Pirelli Corsa P Zero street-able track tires, and a special RS exhaust system that adds more thump to the RS5’s soundtrack. Ascari Blue is now a paint option while Sonoma Green and Turbo Blue are no longer offered.
ENGINE AND IMPLEMENTATION
Under the 2023 Audi RS5’s sinewy clamshell hood sits a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V-6 that pumps out 444 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The power routes through Audi’s rear-biased Quattro all-wheel-drive system via a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.
Floor the gas pedal and the coupe leaps ahead thanks to its all-wheel-drive—it reached 60 mph in 3.5 seconds in our testing. Too bad the accompanying roar isn’t particularly inspiring, especially compared with how good the previous generation’s V-8 sounded.
Behind the wheel, the meanest version of Audi’s sports coupe is easy to control and enjoyable to exploit, with predictable, docile handling in both wet and dry conditions.
However, the last version we drove was equipped with the available variable-ratio Dynamic Steering, which has an uneven feel in Comfort and Auto drive modes. Switching to the Dynamic setting results in a fixed ratio that’s more satisfying, but we recommend skipping that option altogether.
The real beauty is how supremely comfortable the 2023 Audi RS5 rides over distances short or long. While competitors such as the M4 demand more attention during spirited sessions, the Audi is still involved and intoxicating.
ENERGY AND REAL-WORLD MPG
The 2023 Audi RS5 uses one powertrain with standard all-wheel drive, which means it only gets one set of fuel-economy ratings from the EPA. The government estimates that the high-powered coupe will get 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
The four-door RS5 Sportback shares the same ratings. However, we haven’t had a chance to evaluate its real-world efficiency on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information about the 2023 Audi RS5’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
The 2023 Audi RS5‘s interior mixes an array of rich materials and high-tech equipment. The standard front sports seats are supportive during cornering and comfy on road trips. They also feature massage functions to indulge the driver and front passenger.
Every cabin includes ambient interior lighting, three-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Those who want an even fancier experience can choose the optional diamond stitching, fully digital gauge cluster, heated steering wheel, and head-up display.
Its fantastic driving position and excellent visibility—for a coupe, at least—are complemented by a back seat that will accommodate two adults of average height. While the coupe isn’t as capacious as the four-door RS5 Sportback that sports a rear hatchback, the regular RS5 still swallowed five of our carry-on suitcases inside its trunk.
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
Unlike updated Audi models such as the A6 and A7 sedans, the 2023 Audi RS5 doesn’t have dual touchscreens that bisect its dashboard and center console.
While that makes its infotainment system looks less futuristic, we appreciate the RS5’s high-mounted 10.1-inch touchscreen. Of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability come standard as well as a 19-speaker, 755-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
While Audi supplies some standard driver-assistance technology, upgrades such as automatic high-beams and self-parking assist cost extra.
For more information about the 2023 Audi RS5 coupe’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
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