Audi launches competition packages for RS4 Avant and RS5

Prospective buyers of Audi's performance RS4 Avant and RS5 models will soon have the ability to make their purchase even more hardcore, with the addition of a competition package for both models.

Announced as an upcoming part of the options list for both the RS4 Avant and RS5, Audi's "basic" competition package comes with a more aggressively calibrated 'dynamic' steering setting and a sharper transmission tune – allowing for quicker great shifts through its eight-speed automatic gearbox.

An increased top speed of 290km/h might sound like a lot for a pair of 1900 kilogram-plus Audis, but the addition of Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres, a new ABS tune and the RS ceramic brake system has reduced stopping distances by up to two metres from 100km/h compared to non-competition package models.

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Those who opt for the more expensive competition plus package are treated to coilovers on all four corners, providing a 10 millimetre drop from the height of the standard car, with a further 10mm of adjustability – going down by as much as 20mm compared to the normal RS4 and RS5.

Increased spring rates all round are complemented by the three-way adjustable dampers, as well as stiffer anti-roll bars, with the improved ride control aiding faster 0-100km/h sprint times – 3.9 seconds for the RS4 (down by 0.2) and 3.8 for the RS5 (down by 0.1).

Power and torque outputs from the 2.9-litre, twin-turbo V6 engines stay unchanged at 331kW and 600Nm respectively, although an RS sports exhaust system not only increases the noise from the bent-six – but also reduces the car's weight by eight kilograms.

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On top of the matte black tailpipes, exterior visual changes include; matte black mirrors, front lip and side flaps plus high-sheen competition wheels in phantom black – although a set of 20-inch milled wheels are also available.

It's a blackout inside the cabin too, as piano black seat side panels are matched with Dinamica and pearl Nappa leather RS sport seats.

Audi Australia hasn't confirmed whether the packs will be available on local cars, however it has released European pricing for each, going on sale in July overseas from €7875 (AU$11,860) for the competition package and €11,875 (AU$17,900) for the competition plus package.

Both models went through a price increase earlier this year, with the RS4 Avant bumped up to $155,400, while the RS5 in both its Coupe and Sportback shapes is now listed from $158,800 – all of which exclude on-road costs.