AUDI SPORT HAS ELEVATED THE sportiness of the Audi RS 4 Avant and Audi RS 5 Sportback with the introduction of the new competition plus package. Set to arrive in showrooms in Australia mid-2024, this package is filled with enhancements that not only refine the car’s appearance but also deliver a more emotional driving experience.
In the course of some proverbial fine-tuning, Audi Sport has increased the sportiness of the Audi RS 4 Avant and Audi RS 5 Sportback. Soon to be available in Australia, the new competition plus package is bursting with extras that both sharpen the cars’ appearance and make for a more emotional driving experience. The Audi RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Sportback competition plus are available for ordering in limited numbers from Audi dealers now.
“I anticipate these will become highly sought-after collectibles for those fortunate enough to secure one,” notes Jeff Mannering, Director Audi Australia. “These specially-packaged cars offer an elevated level of performance to what was already a powerhouse duo.”
With its coilover suspension (RS sport suspension pro), offered for the first time, the competition plus package boasts a maximum in dynamics and driving fun while maintaining its suitability for everyday use. Reduced insulation between the engine compartment and the interior means the RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Sportback will thrill with an exciting, next-level sound experience. The potent biturbo V6 has 331kW of power from 5700 to 6700rpm and torque of 600Nm from 1900 to 5000rpm.
Next-level sport performance
Offered for the first time on these models, the RS sport suspension pro offers manually adjustable coilover suspension for an ideal spread between comfort and performance. As a result, even longer distances can be covered comfortably with all available assistance systems and without limitations. Owners who choose this coilover suspension will receive their RS 4 Avant or RS 5 Sportback ex-factory with a ride height that is 10mm lower than standard RS models. Plus, the ride height can be manually lowered by an additional 10mm for an overall ride height that is 20mm lower than the series standard. A higher spring rate, three-way adjustable dampers, and stiffer stabilisers heighten the general driving experience and help shorten lap times for those taking their drive to the track. More precise and more agile handling contribute to the elevated level of performance of these understated powerhouses.
The Audi RS 4 Avant with the competition plus package goes from zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, an improvement of 0.2 seconds over the series standard. The Audi RS 5 Sportback does the sprint in 3.8 seconds, an improvement of 0.1 seconds. Further, both competition plus packages also feature an increased maximum speed of 290km/h.
The dynamic steering is fixed at a ratio of 1:13.1. With all these enhancements, Audi Sport GmbH has created unerring handling and even greater tracking. The enhanced quattro sport differential ensures an increased degree of agility and driving fun – especially in the “dynamic” driving mode. A new data set in the control unit with changed parameters switches the emphasis to the rear. Moreover, the updated software in the transmission control unit, only in combination with the competition plus packages, makes for reduced shifting times and a noticeably increased spread between the various driving modes. The dynamics are further enhanced through specially tuned ABS software, which reduces the braking distance from 100km/h by up to two metres in combination with the optional Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres.
Developed specially for the competition plus packages, Audi Sport GmbH is presenting the new RS sports exhaust system plus with tailpipes in matt black. These boast a more intense sound pattern, not only through the exhaust system itself, but especially due to the reduced insulation between the engine compartment and interior, a modification that also lessens the car’s weight by about eight kilograms. Fine-tuning to the engine control unit software makes for tighter load changes in S mode when the “dynamic” drive select is active – further increasing the emotional feedback.
An enhanced look
Optional RS front bucket seats in Dinamica is also available for the first time in this model generation, for those wanting to further elevate their track stance. These seats, when selected, are paired with the pre-existing RS design package in red. Priced at $3400, this adds an Alcantara steering wheel, shifter knob, and centre console knee pads with contrasting stitching in crescendo red, seat belts in black with red edging, and front RS logo floor mats in black with contrasting red stitching. The Dinamica material is made of 45 percent recycled PET fibres; about 215 grams of PET fibres are processed per seat. The four rings on the hood and the trunk lid as well as the model lettering underscore the sporty character with their glossy black finish.
For the first time for the RS 4 and RS 5, the exterior is now available in a matching crystal effect Sebring Black finish, which is also now available across the RS 4 and RS 5 range, with or without the competition plus package applied. Customers can further highlight the sporty look of their RS 4 Avant or RS 5 Sportback competition plus by choosing between a 20-inch 5-Y spoke milled, gloss turned wheel or a black metallic, milled alternative, or opt to add Pirelli P Zero Corsa high-performance tyres that were designed both for the road and the racetrack.
Audi ownership
Both the RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Sportback with competition plus also come with a five-year warranty and twelve years manufacturer warranty for bodywork against corrosion perforation for new vehicles. Alongside warranty, Audi Australia also includes a complimentary five-year Audi roadside assistance as part of the purchase of an RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Sportback.
Five-year service plans are available for both of these models and customers also have the opportunity to purchase Audi Advantage, an Audi-exclusive program that allows owners to purchase two-year packages to extend their servicing, warranty and roadside assistance. New vehicle customers are able to purchase two-year programs back-to-back at the time of purchase, or at a later date up to eight years old, to extend the current manufacturer warranty beyond the current five-year timeframe. This allows new vehicle owners the security of a full factory warranty for up to nine years, which is transferable to future owners of their vehicle.
Audi owners also receive a complementary membership during their warranty period to Audi Experience, Audi Australia’s bespoke loyalty program that offers access to exclusive national events, intimate Audi Ambassador experiences and premium partner offers.
Market introduction and pricing
Pricing for the Audi RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Sportback competition plus package is from $13,990, and the competition plus package with RS bucket seats, $15,290. Given the limited availability and anticipated mid-2024 arrival, customers are encouraged to contact their preferred Audi dealer now to inquire.
| Pricing | |
| Audi RS 4 Avant competition plus package | $13,990 |
| Audi RS 4 Avant competition plus package with RS bucket seats | $15,290 |
| Audi RS 5 Sportback competition plus package | $13,990 |
| Audi RS 5 Sportback competition plus package with RS bucket seats | $15,290 |
Note: We thought this was fairly clear, but some responses from readers have meant we need to clarify: these prices are for the options pack, NOT for the car!