Switching from a 2019 Audi Rs5 4-door to a BMW M3 brought forth a revelation in driving experience. The Audi RS5, while undeniably luxurious and sporty, never quite delivered the visceral thrill experienced with the M3. The RS5’s interior, though refined, felt somewhat uninspired, especially in all black. Build quality was evident in the tight panel gaps and quiet cabin, typical of German engineering, yet like many in its class, the RS5 was not immune to the occasional rattle over time. The powertrain of the RS5 was robust, but it simply lacked the engaging and dynamic character that defines the M3’s engine.
Aesthetically, the RS5 and M3 occupy different spaces. The Audi RS5 leans towards a more conventionally beautiful design, whereas the M3 projects a more aggressively handsome and rugged persona. This difference in styling reflects the contrasting driving experiences offered by each car.
One of the initial draws of the RS5 was its exceptional all-wheel-drive system, a critical feature for navigating winter conditions. In 2019, choosing the RS5 over a rear-wheel-drive M3 for winter capability was a straightforward decision. However, with the advent of all-wheel-drive M3 models, the landscape shifted dramatically, making the choice for the next vehicle much clearer.
Functionality-wise, the RS5’s hatchback configuration proved incredibly practical. It effortlessly accommodated family weekend trips and even bulky items like hockey gear, showcasing the versatility often appreciated in a daily driver.
However, the ownership experience with the RS5 was unfortunately marred by significant reliability issues. Multiple exhaust replacements, soundaktor malfunctions, and interior component failures, alongside recurring rattles, led to frequent dealership visits. These persistent problems, occurring every few months over 3.5 years of ownership, were major drawbacks. While acknowledging the possibility of having received a less-than-perfect example, these issues were substantial enough to deter a return to the Audi brand.
Despite these personal setbacks, reports of the latest RS5 iterations, particularly the Competition model, suggest notable improvements and a more pronounced sports car character. While this evolution is acknowledged, the negative reliability experience remains a significant factor.
Ultimately, the decision to move to the M3 was also driven by a long-held aspiration. The M3 represented a dream car, something the RS5, despite its merits, never quite embodied. It’s likely that for many automotive enthusiasts, the emotional resonance and dream factor are far more heavily weighted towards models like the M3 than the RS5.
