Recently, I had the opportunity to test drive the Audi RS5 Sportback, and as someone deeply interested in performance cars, especially within the BMW M and Mercedes-AMG realm, I wanted to share my initial impressions. While personal preference heavily dictates choices in this segment—think BMW F8x M3/M4, Mercedes C63/S, Alfa Romeo Giulia QV—the Audi RS5 definitely holds its own and deserves a closer look, especially for those considering practicality alongside performance. My experience, facilitated through a family friend at Porsche Downtown LA, provided a hands-on feel for the Nardo Grey RS5 Sportback, and these are my initial thoughts for anyone curious about the B9 generation Audi RS5.
One of the first things that struck me was the transmission. Coming from a world accustomed to the rapid shifts of Dual Clutch Transmissions (DCTs), I was a bit surprised to find an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic in the RS5. Rumor has it, the torque output of the RS5’s engine might be too much for Audi’s DSG. While the ZF 8-speed automatic performed admirably with quick and precise shifts and subtle burbles on downshifts, it lacked the raw, immediate engagement that DCTs offer. For a DCT enthusiast like myself, this was a noticeable departure. My appreciation for cars started with the visceral feel of DCTs, so its absence is a point to consider.
My uncle, who joined me on the test drive, immediately pointed out the RS5’s subdued sound profile compared to my modified BMW M3 (Akrapovic Evolution exhaust, stock downpipes, no tune). Whether it’s superior sound insulation or simply a quieter car by nature, the RS5’s V6 engine note is less prominent in the cabin. Even driving in Dynamic mode, the exhaust rumble was subtle. Perhaps Audi intentionally aimed for a more refined experience, but it lacks the raw visceral excitement of the M3/M4. Interestingly, the V6 engine in the RS5 is shared with the Porsche Panamera 4S, hinting at its inherent character.
The steering feel was another point of interest. It was lighter than anticipated for a performance car of this caliber, yet still commendably direct. This lightness might be attributed to the optional Dynamic Steering, which adjusts the steering ratio. While potentially beneficial for city driving and maneuvering in parking lots, it did reduce the sense of road feel transmitted through the wheel. I didn’t detect any dead spots, but the lightness was apparent. Whether this was due to pre-set driving modes or the inherent steering characteristics, further investigation would be needed.
A pleasant surprise was Audi’s approach to pricing their Sportback models. Unlike BMW’s Gran Coupes, the Audi RS5 Sportback carries the same MSRP as the RS5 Coupe. I also learned that the Sportback variant is a more recent addition, debuting in 2019 after the RS5 Coupe’s initial 2018 US release. This makes the Sportback a compelling option for those wanting added practicality without a price premium. For those researching or comparing models, online resources like the Audi Rs5 Forum are invaluable for uncovering such details and owner insights.
Moving to ride comfort, the RS5’s suspension impressed me. Coming from a stiff F80 M3, the RS5 felt noticeably more compliant, even in Dynamic mode. Road imperfections in downtown LA were absorbed effectively without discomfort, surprisingly even more so than our Porsche Macan S. I didn’t experience any jarring harshness, suggesting the RS5 could be a comfortable daily driver. However, I didn’t experiment with different suspension settings during this brief test, which would be necessary for a comprehensive assessment. For owners seeking to fine-tune their driving experience, the Audi RS5 forum often discusses suspension setups and modifications.
The interior design is distinctly Audi – minimalist and well-executed. The seat leather design is a step up from the previous generation BMW F80/F82, although BMW seems to be evolving in this area with their new G-chassis models. One curious omission is the lack of a leather dashboard option in the RS5, unlike the M3/M4 or C63(S). For many F8x owners, a leather dash significantly elevates the interior ambiance, and its absence in the RS5 is puzzling. Interior aesthetics and customization are frequent topics within the Audi RS5 forum, with owners sharing their personal touches and preferences.
Audi’s Virtual Cockpit is genuinely impressive. Initially skeptical, I found its customizability and information display capabilities excellent. From performance gauges to navigation and phone integration, everything is readily accessible and configurable. While perhaps slightly information-dense, the level of customization is commendable. One minor critique is the placement of the fuel and engine temperature gauges as side indicators. The Virtual Cockpit’s comprehensive nature arguably diminishes the necessity for a Heads-Up Display. The Audi RS5 forum is full of discussions and tips on maximizing the Virtual Cockpit’s features.
However, the standard MMI and its design appear somewhat dated in comparison to the advanced Virtual Cockpit. It evoked memories of older BMW iDrive and Mercedes infotainment systems. While functionally responsive and retaining physical controls, an MMI refresh would be welcome. The integrated “iPad-style” screen design also remains a personal dislike – a sentiment echoed by some users on the Audi RS5 forum who prefer a more integrated screen aesthetic.
Despite my general preference against Lexus-like styling, the B9 RS5’s design has grown on me. Audi effectively differentiates its A, S, and RS models, unlike Mercedes-AMG where distinctions can be subtler. The RS5 clearly communicates its performance pedigree. Design nuances and owner opinions on styling are common themes on the Audi RS5 forum, helping potential buyers gauge popular perspectives.
The RS5 belies its weight surprisingly well. The Torsen all-wheel-drive system effectively masks the car’s near two-ton mass. While I can’t comment on track performance, for street driving, the weight wasn’t a noticeable detriment. This is in contrast to the older Audi S3 I drove, where the weight shift was more apparent in corners, a characteristic hopefully not shared by the RS3. AWD systems and handling dynamics are frequently debated on the Audi RS5 forum, offering valuable insights for performance-minded drivers.
The ZF 8-speed automatic, while competent, lacked the emotional engagement I hoped for. It performed as expected, but didn’t quite deliver the dramatic feel I associate with the ZF unit in cars like the BMW F90 M5. This reinforces my preference for DCTs in performance cars. Transmission characteristics and driving feel are often compared and contrasted by owners on the Audi RS5 forum, aiding prospective buyers in understanding real-world performance.
The RS5 Sportback’s rear seats are genuinely usable. With my uncle testing them, they proved adequate for adult passengers, offering decent ingress and egress and reasonable space. While not SUV-like spacious, they suffice for four adults. The prominent transmission tunnel hump, however, renders the middle rear seat impractical for adults. Practicality aspects, including passenger and cargo space, are often discussed within the Audi RS5 forum, especially for those considering the Sportback for family duties.
The inclusion of physical buttons for HVAC controls is a welcome feature in the B9 RS5. A minor, slightly quirky detail is the door handle design, requiring a slight upward pull to open. While not cumbersome, it was a unique detail I hadn’t encountered before. These smaller details and user experience nuances are often shared and discussed within the Audi RS5 forum community.
The Dynamic Steering’s speed-sensitive ratio adjustment explains the light steering feel at lower speeds and heavier feel at higher speeds. This automatic adjustment is appealing, potentially eliminating the need to constantly switch between Comfort and Sport steering modes as I do in my M3. However, a test drive in an RS5 without Dynamic Steering would be needed to solidify my preference. Personalized driving settings and optional features are common discussion points on the Audi RS5 forum, helping owners optimize their cars to their preferences.
Lastly, the panoramic sunroof is a standard, non-removable feature. Whether this is a positive or negative depends on personal preference.
In conclusion, the Audi RS5 Sportback has definitely earned a spot on my list of potential future cars. While I still need to test drive the Mercedes C63S, the RS5 offers a compelling package. My preference leans towards Audi’s overall approach, valuing the complete driving experience over just one standout feature like engine sound. For deeper dives into owner experiences, reliability, modifications, and more, the Audi RS5 forum stands as an invaluable resource for anyone seriously considering or already enjoying this impressive performance vehicle.
