2024 Audi RS5 Sportback: Is This Practical Performance Car Worth The Price?

Audi’s legacy in performance vehicles is deeply rooted in its iconic RS models, a lineage that stretches back to 1994. The RS5 Sportback continues this tradition, positioning itself as Audi’s compelling answer to rivals like the BMW M3. Initially, the RS5 captivated enthusiasts with its naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine, a high-revving marvel that challenged BMW’s inline-six engines. However, as automotive technology advanced, the RS5 evolved, embracing turbocharged efficiency and the sure-footedness of all-wheel drive. While this evolution brought enhanced refinement and broader appeal, it also sparked a debate: has the pursuit of polish diminished the raw excitement that defined the original RS5?

The latest iteration, the 2024 Audi Rs5 Sportback, attempts to strike a harmonious balance. It retains the high-performance DNA expected of an RS model while significantly boosting practicality. Boasting nearly double the cargo capacity of the RS5 Coupe and offering genuinely usable rear seats, the Sportback caters to drivers who demand performance without compromising everyday usability. Under the hood, its 444-horsepower engine places it squarely in competition with formidable contenders such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, Mercedes-AMG C43, and the BMW M3, all vying for supremacy in the fiercely contested performance sedan segment. Even with the availability of the Competition Package, designed to sharpen handling dynamics, the RS5 Sportback still seems to prioritize precision and composure over unadulterated driving drama. This raises a crucial question: in its quest for refinement, has the RS5 Sportback become too civilized for its own good? While undeniably impressive on paper and in practice, in a segment teeming with character and excitement, the RS5 Sportback needs more than just impressive numbers to truly stand out.

What’s New for the 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback?

For the 2024 model year, Audi has opted for subtle enhancements rather than radical changes to the RS5 Sportback. Several previously optional driver assistance and convenience features are now standard, enhancing the car’s value proposition. These additions include adaptive cruise control, Audi active lane assist, a parking system, a heated steering wheel equipped with Hands-on Detection, and remote engine start functionality accessible through the myAudi app. Notably, the desirable Competition package has become more accessible due to a significant price reduction, dropping from $14,600 to $10,300. However, this price adjustment comes with a trade-off: ceramic brakes are no longer included as part of the Competition package. Conversely, the base MSRP of the 2024 RS5 Sportback has seen an increase of $1,700, reflecting the added standard features and ongoing inflationary pressures.

2024 Audi RS5 Sportback Pricing and Options

The 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback enters the market with a starting MSRP of $79,900, excluding destination charges. This price point positions it firmly within the premium echelon of its performance-oriented segment, aligning closely with competitors like the BMW M3 Competition xDrive. While both vehicles offer comparable performance levels, a key differentiator lies in drivetrain availability: BMW provides a rear-wheel-drive option for the M3, a configuration not available for the Audi RS5 Sportback, which is exclusively offered with all-wheel drive. Adding to the base price is a mandatory destination charge of $1,295.

While the RS5 Sportback is offered in a single, well-equipped trim level, the realm of personalization and performance enhancement opens up through optional packages and standalone features. For buyers seeking to maximize the dynamic capabilities of the RS5 Sportback, the Competition package emerges as a highly recommended investment. Priced at $10,300, this package is considered by many enthusiasts to be essential for unlocking the car’s full potential. It encompasses a range of performance-focused upgrades, including a stiffer suspension setup, an increased top speed limiter (raised from 155 mph to 180 mph), a lowered ride height, a more aggressive-sounding sport exhaust system, and a recalibration of various driving dynamics systems to prioritize performance over outright comfort. For drivers who appreciate nuanced handling characteristics and seek the ultimate driving experience, the Competition package is a worthwhile addition.

However, as buyers delve into the options list and begin adding further individual options and packages, the total vehicle price can quickly escalate, approaching territory occupied by even higher-tier performance cars like the Porsche Panamera. At these elevated price levels, the RS5 Sportback’s value proposition comes under closer scrutiny. While it remains a well-rounded and highly capable vehicle, potential buyers may begin to weigh its strengths against those of competitors in the next price bracket, where factors like brand prestige, outright performance, and exclusivity may play a more significant role in the purchasing decision.

Interior Design, Comfort, and Technology

The interior of the Audi RS5 Sportback exemplifies Audi’s commitment to premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship, yet it treads familiar ground, lacking significant evolution from recent Audi models. While consistently high in quality, Audi interiors have seen incremental rather than revolutionary changes in recent years.

Audi has long been lauded for producing some of the most refined and luxurious interiors in the automotive industry, and the RS5 Sportback upholds this reputation. The cabin is swathed in supple Nappa leather, featuring intricate honeycomb stitching patterns that exude sophistication and sportiness. The optional RS Design package further elevates the interior ambiance with Alcantara accents and vibrant seatbelt edges, adding a touch of visual flair. The tactile quality of materials throughout the cabin is undeniably upscale, and the overall build quality reflects the precision and attention to detail synonymous with the Audi brand.

Opting for the Competition package not only enhances the driving dynamics but also imparts a distinct motorsport-inspired character to the interior. This upgrade introduces a unique upholstery combination for the front seats, blending Pearl Nappa leather with Dinamica microfiber inserts, complemented by Piano Black trim elements. Matte carbon fiber inlays are strategically placed throughout the cabin, reinforcing the RS5’s performance credentials and adding a sense of technical sophistication. Subtle yet distinctive details, such as the RS logo subtly embossed on the floor mats and the beam puddle lights that project the RS Competition logo onto the ground upon door opening, further underscore the car’s special status.

Audi’s Virtual Cockpit Plus remains a benchmark in digital instrument cluster design, offering a customizable and information-rich display. The Competition package adds an exclusive “Runway mode” to the Virtual Cockpit, catering to track enthusiasts by providing real-time performance data such as lap times, G-forces, and engine parameters. The 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, while visually crisp and responsive, maintains a somewhat tacked-on aesthetic, a design trait seen across several recent Audi models. Furthermore, the haptic feedback controls for climate settings, while modern in appearance, can sometimes prove less intuitive and more distracting to operate while driving compared to traditional physical buttons and knobs. The absence of the MMI rotary dial controller, a feature found in larger RS models like the RS6 and RS7, means that basic adjustments such as temperature or fan speed require more direct interaction with the touchscreen, potentially diverting the driver’s attention from the road. The inclusion of physical buttons for frequently used climate functions would arguably enhance usability and driver ergonomics.

Interior Space and Practicality

Despite its high-performance nature and exhilarating speed capabilities, the RS5 Sportback distinguishes itself through its surprising level of practicality. In contrast to its sedan-bodied competitors, the Sportback’s hatchback configuration provides a distinct advantage in terms of passenger and cargo accommodation. The larger windows and overall body shape of the Sportback also contribute to improved outward visibility compared to the RS5 Coupe, enhancing driver confidence in various driving situations. However, rear passengers may still find the rear window line somewhat restrictive for outward views.

In terms of passenger space, the front seats of the RS5 Sportback offer generous room for taller occupants, although it marginally trails the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C43 in specific front headroom and legroom measurements. Rear passenger space in the RS5 Sportback is respectable for a performance-oriented vehicle, offering adequate head- and legroom. While not class-leading in rear passenger volume, it provides a more accommodating rear seating area than many rivals in the sports car segment.

Cargo Capacity and Storage Solutions

Practicality is where the RS5 Sportback truly shines, especially when compared to its coupe counterpart. The inclusion of rear doors and a liftback design significantly enhances accessibility to both the rear seats and the cargo area. The Audi RS5 Sportback boasts a substantial 21.8 cubic feet of cargo space, nearly double the 10.9 cubic feet offered by the RS5 Coupe. This cargo volume advantage positions it well ahead of the BMW M3 Sedan (16.9 cubic feet) and the Mercedes-AMG C43 Sedan (a more modest 11.6 cubic feet).

Beyond sheer cargo volume, the RS5 Sportback also excels in small-item storage solutions within the cabin. Thoughtfully designed cupholders, dedicated slots for water bottles, and various storage cubbies are strategically placed throughout the interior, enhancing everyday usability and convenience. These practical storage features further differentiate the RS5 Sportback from competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which often prioritize sporty aesthetics over comprehensive in-cabin storage. For buyers who prioritize practicality alongside performance, the RS5 Sportback emerges as a clear leader in its class.

Interior Materials and Color Options

The standard upholstery in the RS5 Sportback consists of fine Nappa leather seats, available in black with contrasting honeycomb stitching in either Crescendo Red or Rock Gray. Carbon fiber inlays adorn the dashboard and door panels, adding a sleek, motorsport-inspired aesthetic. Stainless steel pedals and RS badging serve as subtle reminders of the car’s performance pedigree, while a Quattro badge on the dashboard further emphasizes its all-wheel-drive heritage.

Choosing the Competition Package brings about a change in seating surfaces, replacing the standard seats with a combination of Pearl Nappa leather and Dinamica leather, accented with Piano Black side trim for a more distinctive appearance. Key touchpoints, such as the steering wheel, shift lever, and center console, are wrapped in Alcantara with contrasting Crescendo Red stitching. Red accents extend to the safety belts and floor mats, while Matte Carbon inlays further enhance the sporty ambiance. RS logos are incorporated into the floor mats, and the puddle lights project the RS Competition logo onto the ground when the doors are opened.

Infotainment System and Key Features

Audi’s infotainment technology is widely recognized as among the best in the automotive industry, and the RS5 Sportback benefits from this expertise. The centerpiece is a 10.1-inch MMI touch response system that integrates navigation, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit with RS-specific performance displays. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, along with a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system. Other standard convenience features include a power tailgate, heated front and rear seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, and multiple USB ports. The MMI touch response system provides seamless navigation and smartphone integration. Optional upgrades include a head-up display (available through the RS Driver Assistance Plus package) and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The RS5 Sportback possesses a deceptive quality, effortlessly masking its sub-four-second 0-60 mph acceleration capability. It is undeniably quick, composed, and exceptionally capable, yet it arguably lacks the raw feedback and visceral engagement that define truly exceptional handling cars.

The 2024 RS5 Sportback is powered by a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 444 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant enables it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph (or 180 mph with the Competition package). While these figures are undeniably impressive, they are not class-leading; the BMW M3 Competition xDrive achieves the same sprint in 3.4 seconds, and the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio often feels subjectively faster due to its more raw and unfiltered driving experience.

Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, with its rear-biased torque distribution, ensures confident and predictable handling characteristics. However, it is not as overtly playful or tail-happy as the rear-wheel-drive BMW M3. An eight-speed automatic transmission manages gear shifts. The Competition package enhances performance with a recalibrated ECU, a more pronounced exhaust note, and an increased top speed of 180 mph. While these upgrades contribute to a more engaging driving experience, particularly on track, the stiffer suspension and performance tires can become less desirable for daily commuting.

Test Drive Impressions

In real-world driving, the 2023 RS5 Sportback (which is mechanically similar to the 2024 model) exhibits distinct personalities depending on the selected driving mode. In Comfort and Auto modes, it lives up to its refined grand touring character, delivering a smooth, composed, and surprisingly civilized ride for a 444-hp hatchback. However, switching to Dynamic mode awakens a more aggressive side. The engine start-up is accompanied by a brief rev flare and a deeper growl from the exhaust, providing a heightened sense of engagement.

Steering feel, however, was noted as an area for potential improvement. While the steering is appropriately weighted, it lacks a natural sense of feedback and directness, sometimes requiring minor mid-corner adjustments and second-guessing. In contrast, the Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (part of the Competition package) provide exceptional levels of grip, adhering to the road surface tenaciously. Despite the high grip levels, the electric power steering system was described as feeling somewhat numb, relying more on auditory cues like tire squeal than genuine tactile feedback when approaching the limits of adhesion.

Fuel Economy and Range

The 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback achieves respectable fuel economy figures for its performance class, EPA-rated at 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. These numbers compare favorably to thirstier V8-powered competitors like the Mercedes-AMG C63, although the RS5’s fuel efficiency falls short of the BMW M340i xDrive’s more frugal 26 mpg combined rating.

With a 15.3-gallon fuel tank capacity, the RS5 Sportback offers an EPA-estimated highway driving range of approximately 306 miles. This range is sufficient for comfortable long-distance road trips. Considering the vehicle’s performance capabilities, the fuel economy is a reasonable trade-off. The BMW M3, with its higher-output inline-six engine, typically offers a slightly shorter driving range, as do most V8-powered competitors, which tend to consume fuel at a higher rate.

Safety Ratings and Features

The 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback has not undergone crash testing by either the NHTSA or IIHS. While safety ratings exist for the A5 Sportback, these are not directly applicable to the RS5 due to significant structural and performance differences.

Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has conducted crash tests specifically on the 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback. While the A5 Sportback, the base model upon which the RS5 is derived, has been evaluated by the NHTSA, its safety ratings cannot be directly extrapolated to the RS5 due to substantial engineering differences. The RS5 Sportback features a reinforced chassis and performance-oriented components that differentiate it significantly from the standard A5 Sportback, rendering the A5’s safety ratings less relevant to the RS5.

The RS5 Sportback comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including driver and front-passenger advanced airbags, knee airbags, front-passenger side airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, electronic child locks, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Advanced driver-assistance systems that are standard include adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam Assist, Audi pre-sense basic and city (forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking), Parking System Plus, Audi active lane assist, Audi Advanced Key (keyless entry and start), and an electromechanical parking brake. Optional safety enhancements available through packages include Audi pre-sense rear (rear collision warning), Audi side assist (blind-spot monitoring), Park Assist (automated parking), a top-view camera system, and traffic sign recognition.

Reliability and Warranty Coverage

J.D. Power has not provided a specific reliability rating for the RS5 Sportback, likely due to the relatively low sales volume and limited owner feedback data available for this niche performance model. Audi provides a standard new vehicle and powertrain warranty of four years or 50,000 miles, along with 12 years of corrosion protection. Roadside assistance is included for four years with unlimited mileage. While this warranty coverage is typical for the luxury automotive segment, it is not exceptional, and some competitors may offer longer powertrain warranties or complimentary maintenance packages.

Exterior Design and Styling

The RS5 Sportback boasts a visually appealing and assertive design, characterized by its flared fenders, distinctive honeycomb grille, and athletic stance. It achieves a muscular aesthetic without being overly aggressive, maintaining the understated elegance that is characteristic of Audi design. The front fascia is adorned with high-gloss black Audi rings and trim elements, signaling its performance orientation. Matte carbon fiber accents on the front splitter, rear diffuser, and mirror housings further accentuate its sporty character. As a subtle detail, a carbon fiber engine cover is visible under the hood, adding a touch of visual appeal.

The Sportback’s signature hatchback design contributes to both its distinctive profile and practical functionality. Red-painted brake calipers provide a vibrant contrast against the darker exterior elements. For buyers seeking an even more exclusive and stealth-like appearance, the Competition package offers Sebring Black paint as an exclusive option, along with Phantom black wheels and carbon fiber mirror caps and engine cover. The Dynamic package adds red brake calipers to both front and rear axles. Standard wheels are 19-inch 10-spoke star forged designs, with optional 20-inch 5-arm flag forged wheels available as part of the Black Optic package, or 20-inch 5-Y-spoke bi-color phantom black milled-cut wheels included with the Competition package. Exterior paint options include metallic finishes like Mythos Black, Glacier White, and Progressive Red, as well as a Daytona Gray pearl effect finish for a more premium look.

Verdict: Is the 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback a Good Car?

Ultimately, the 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback presents a compelling proposition as a well-rounded and thoughtfully engineered performance car. It delivers impressive speed, capable handling, and a surprising degree of practicality, making it a versatile choice for drivers who value both performance and everyday usability. However, its refined and composed nature can sometimes border on clinical, potentially lacking some of the raw emotional engagement offered by rivals.

The RS5 Sportback excels as a daily driver that can also deliver thrills on demand. It is equally comfortable cruising on highways and tackling winding backroads, without requiring significant compromises in either scenario. However, the infotainment system is beginning to show its age, and it may not possess the same level of visual drama and auditory excitement as competitors like the BMW M3 or Mercedes-AMG C63. Its price point also places it in close proximity to higher-tier performance vehicles, prompting potential buyers to carefully weigh its strengths and weaknesses against alternatives.

For buyers who prioritize a balanced blend of performance, practicality, and understated luxury, the RS5 Sportback is undoubtedly a strong contender. While it may not be the most overtly flamboyant or powerful option in its class, it offers a sophisticated and capable package that caters to a discerning clientele. Whether it represents the best value proposition in its segment is a matter of individual priorities and preferences. While some may desire more raw power or a more cutting-edge infotainment experience, the RS5 Sportback remains a thoughtfully executed and highly capable performance car in an era often characterized by excess.

Disclaimer: All information regarding the 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback was accurate at the time of writing. Automakers may introduce updates, changes, or improvements to specifications, pricing, or features at any time.