As numbers in the Audi world begin to blur between the electric and internal combustion era, (odds-ICE/evens-EV) the Audi RS4 Competition Plus rolls in as a fitting farewell tribute to a beloved icon. It’s not just another family wagon; it’s a track-ready performance machine that manages to blend practicality with exhilarating speed. In other words, it’s the ultimate Swiss (ok German) Army knife for enthusiasts and families alike.
For those of you familiar with our earlier reviews of the RS4, we’re excited to revisit this fantastic model. Back in 2020, we praised its remarkable blend of performance and practicality. But now, with the RS4 Competition Plus, Audi has taken the familiar essence of the RS4 and cranked it up a notch—in fact, several notches.
This limited-run model is especially noteworthy, as it marks the end of an era; as Audi transitions from even-numbered models into electrification, the RS4 will bid farewell. Only 26 units are earmarked for New Zealand, which makes the Competition Plus not only a high-performance vehicle but a collector’s piece as well.
Let’s talk numbers, shall we? Under the hood, the RS4 Competition Plus boasts a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 on full roar, delivering 331 kW and a staggering 600 Nm of torque. It may not boast a bump in horsepower compared to the ‘regular’ RS4, but thanks to a remap, it now achieves 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. That’s a tantalising drop of 0.2 seconds compared to earlier iterations. But it’s not just about straight-line speed; this model showcases quicker gear shifts, a stiffer suspension, and a meaner growl that’ll make you feel like a superhero on the road.
One of the most apparent changes is the lowered stance, sitting 10mm lower as it comes from the factory, coupled with fine-tuned suspension settings, making it a dream on the track. And for avid track-goers, you can drop the ride height another 10mm. However, while it may excel on the racetrack, those precious moments of grocery runs might force you to keep an eye out for steep driveways or sleeping policemen.
The aesthetic changes also put the ‘plus’ in Competition Plus. The matte black badging adds a sleek touch, while carbon fibre accents lavish the vehicle with sporty flair. The 20-inch alloy wheels, now 2 kg lighter per corner, are beautifully machined, a solid nod to Audi’s performance-first philosophy. And let’s not ignore the exhaust; it’s un-dampened, making it lighter and offers a thunderous roar that will have you grinning like a kid in a candy store. Trust us, it’s addictive.
Step inside, and you’re greeted with a cabin that screams luxury and performance. The carbon bucket seats provide a snug, supportive embrace, ideal for spirited drives. However, be warned; it’s not the most accommodating if you’re frequently navigating bumpy terrains or attempting to juggle coffee cups. Audi does offer alternate seating options if you favour comfort over aggressive style, but the sharp aesthetics of these buckets are undeniably appealing.
Alcantara covers the steering wheel and gear shifter, creating a connection that feels as luxe as it is sporty. And though the infotainment system bears a strong resemblance to the standard RS4 setup, you’ll find a new RS monitor showing vital performance metrics and comprehensive driving modes.
Practicality remains intact, with a spacious 495 litres of boot space, enough for a weekend away with the family or your kit for a skiing adventure. And yes, you still get that bonus ski hatch.
The driving experience is what truly sets the RS4 Competition Plus apart. From the moment you press the accelerator, the beast within unleashes a visceral thrill. That dual-clutch DSG transmission delivers rapid shifts, making it feel like the car is glued to the tarmac, feeling composed yet exhilarating even at elevated speeds. For the petrolhead, this sensation is akin to a rollercoaster rush, perfectly marrying raw speed with the practicality of a family wagon.
Sure, it’s not without a few quirks. While the sporty seats might lend themselves to spirited track days, they might be less forgiving for day-to-day use. And yes, the dynamic steering weighs up beautifully in sport mode, but the comfort setting lets you keep your sanity while cruising around town.
As we bid auf-wiedersehen to the RS4, the Competition Plus epitomises everything we’ve come to love about this model. Audi has imbued it with performance, practicality, and elegance, crafting a vehicle that perfectly meets the needs and expectations of modern enthusiasts. It is indeed a fitting send-off for a car that has defined practical performance for over two decades.
So, our parting advice? If you can get your hands on one of the 26 units in New Zealand, don’t hesitate. This isn’t just a family wagon; it’s a piece of automotive history, ready to serve you both on the road and the racetrack.
