Thinking of upgrading from my 2015 S4...2019 RS5 SB - Options? Known issues?

[NYAUDIS4]

Frist, I've searched and this forum, and being small, I don't see these questions as having been standardized/stickied...

For context, I just drove back to back a 2023 S5 sportback, which didn't seem an upgrade at all from my 2015 S4 (other than infotainment), and an 2023 RS5 coupe, which from a driving dynamics and drivetrain standpoint seemed in a whole other league from the S5 (and my S4).

Looking for a sub 20k mi, ~$60K B9 RS5 sportback, which seems to put me in a B9 not a B9.5. Just read this thread, but seems generally most of the changes are cosmetic/infotainment. Any reason to spend another ~$10k on a 2021?

Assuming no, what are the must have packages in other owners' views? Dynamic seems the only must...with nice upgrades for driver assistance, B&O, and carbon. Black optics is a must for me as well, aesthetically.

Any known issues on the 2.9T/platform yet? Seems pretty bulletproof like the B8, so far.

Lastly, anyone seeing this downward market trend continuing? Many of the vehicles I'm looking at have that have some market history are seeing 10-15% decreases from pricing just a month or so ago. I'm not in a rush, my car is paid for, mint, has only 35k mi on it, and is enjoyable to drive.

Appreciate the feedback, and hope to join the community soon.

[Ed99]

Frist, I've searched and this forum, and being small, I don't see these questions as having been standardized/stickied...

For context, I just drove back to back a 2023 S5 sportback, which didn't seem an upgrade at all from my 2015 S4 (other than infotainment), and an 2023 RS5 coupe, which from a driving dynamics and drivetrain standpoint seemed in a whole other league from the S5 (and my S4).

Looking for a sub 20k mi, ~$60K B9 RS5 sportback, which seems to put me in a B9 not a B9.5. Just read this thread, but seems generally most of the changes are cosmetic/infotainment. Any reason to spend another ~$10k on a 2021?

Assuming no, what are the must have packages in other owners' views? Dynamic seems the only must...with nice upgrades for driver assistance, B&O, and carbon. Black optics is a must for me as well, aesthetically.

Any known issues on the 2.9T/platform yet? Seems pretty bulletproof like the B8, so far.

Lastly, anyone seeing this downward market trend continuing? Many of the vehicles I'm looking at have that have some market history are seeing 10-15% decreases from pricing just a month or so ago. I'm not in a rush, my car is paid for, mint, has only 35k mi on it, and is enjoyable to drive.

Appreciate the feedback, and hope to join the community soon.

If you want to buy a car, I would wait it out a bit more as prices are coming down and more so in coming months. I have seen a lot of RS5 Coupes and Sportback from 2021 and up models either asking for way too much money and they sit there for months and when they start dropping their prices significantly is when they start selling. Don't rush it...make sure you find the right specs you like. I spoke to my sales guy recently and they said business has slowed down for them in the past month especially. So I am sure they will start discounting their cars more in coming months.

Also, if you notice recently look at the car dealerships...you start to see more cars in their lots now compared to before due to shortages. When you see more cars in their lot is a good thing so that means more chances of you getting a better deal!!!

[B6_Dolphin]

Wrong side of the country, but just a month ago, this 23k mile 2019 RS5 Sportback was offered at $73k, now $61,500:

https://www.seaviewbuickgmc.com/inve...wcf55ka900128/



It's got every option, including the Dynamic+ Package, which includes Ceramic Front Brakes, 174-mph speed limiter, and CF Engine Cover.

[JohnEnglish]

It's got every option, including the Dynamic+ Package, which includes Ceramic Front Brakes, 174-mph speed limiter, and CF Engine Cover.

It’s missing at least the carbon fiber trim pack, 20” peak wheels, RS interior design package, black badges, and heated rear seats.

[Ed99]

Wrong side of the country, but just a month ago, this 23k mile 2019 RS5 Sportback was offered at $73k, now $66.5k:

https://www.seaviewbuickgmc.com/inve...wcf55ka900128/




It's got every option, including the Dynamic+ Package, which includes Ceramic Front Brakes, 174-mph speed limiter, and CF Engine Cover.

Yup I am seeing $10K discounts in used. Definitely the market has soften a lot and probably more so as interest rates continues to climb. And used inventory of RS5's are going up for some reason too. Perhaps either their leases are up or they trading they're RS5 for something else.

[NYAUDIS4]

All good info, confirming my thoughts. I'm not in a.rush. Im getting a hard sell from an out of state dealer on a nice spec. Reasonably priced after a $12k 60 day reduction, but I'm not quite ready to jump at it.

[JohnEnglish]

I think higher interest rates combined with a looming recession will continue to soften the market for higher end vehicles and "weekend cars". I'm already starting to see more "fun vehicles" coming up for sale around me.

[onemax03]

I took this jump from my 2014 S4 to a 2019 RS5 just last year, Sep 2021. Paid $75K with 14,000 miles. I had the same spec as the advertisement above with the exception of Heads-up Display and active cruise so they have def taken a dip. If price is a big factor and you can wait it out, why not. The transition for me was it was worth every cent. My S4 was stock and a 6 speed so the RS5 is and feels miles ahead in terms of power. I also did not have a sport diff on my S4 so again the RS5 is miles ahead from my experience.

As far as 2019 to 2021, not worth the upcharge unless you really want the updated headlights and taillights. I personally think the carbon package on the pre-facelift models looks much better specifically on the front end. Speaking of which the carbon package and Sonoma green color were the only options I wanted. I wouldn't use the drivers assistance often, B&O is ok however I rather listen to the car, and while I have the ceramic carbon brakes and they look really nice I'd pass as replacing them is expensive...like $5K a rotor expensive.

So far I’ve only heard of rocker arms in early production 2.9’s having issues. VAG Technic on YouTube has a video about them if you want more details. Besides that I’ve been lurking in these forums the past year and haven’t heard much else. I’ve also read the differential after tuning and multiple launches may have issues but I’ve also read of people ripping on their tuned RS5 with no issues. So take that for what if’s worth if anything.

[bluonyx]

So from 19' to 21' only the headlights were updated? From what to what? Picked up my 19' in July this year and am overall happy with it except the headlights. They suck!

My 19' JCW had awesome LED headlights that lit the whole road, which is great cause I live in the backcountry. They Audi's feel like I'm back in my old Chevy again.

Can you switch over to newer headlights? And sorry for hijacking this thread,

[onemax03]

The infotainment system also changed, touchscreen as opposed to the dial control. I’ve used the system in a Q8 loaner and was not all that impressed. I do believe it has wireless Apple CarPlay and android auto which the B9 doesn’t have…still need a cable. 🫤

Headlights can be upgraded, Europrice online sells them I believe.

[Ed99]

One of my buddy knows someone at the dealer and sold 2021 RS5 Sportback recently fully optioned out with less than 4000 miles and originally was selling for $103K then it sat for a month and later reduced all the way to $90K and finally sold it for $88.5K Canadian. Car was practically brand new. So definitely wait until they reduce the price further and there is still a bit more wiggle room to get.

[JohnEnglish]

One of my buddy knows someone at the dealer and sold 2021 RS5 Sportback recently fully optioned out with less than 4000 miles and originally was selling for $103K then it sat for a month and later reduced all the way to $90K and finally sold it for $88.5K Canadian. Car was practically brand new. So definitely wait until they reduce the price further and there is still a bit more wiggle room to get.

Someone on AW got $12K off a brand new 2023 RS5 Sportback that was sitting in a dealer’s showroom.

[Ed99]

Someone on AW got $12K off a brand new 2023 RS5 Sportback that was sitting in a dealer’s showroom.

Wow ok $12K off brand new is even a better deal!! That is like back in the good old days where you can get a decent discount off a brand new car!!

It's funny how you mentioned discount off brand new because a month ago there were 2 Audi dealers in Canada that was discounted 2 brand new RS6's. And 3 days later both was sold!! And the discount were around $10K.

[Uncle Buck]

I bought my '19 RS5 coupe in the depths of the pandemic in August of '20 and the deal was basically a new RS5 for S5 money - I prefer the B9 as it the MMI is mechanical and not a touch screen. Other posters have covered the other differences. Good luck with your hunt.

[NYAUDIS4]

Thanks for all the input. Will update as I move ahead.

[kmarei]

Thanks for all the input. Will update as I move ahead.

if you are not in a hurry, figure out what exact specs you want
and do what i did
i had a cars.com autotrader, car gurus, edmunds, truecar, and carfax saved searches as the home page on a spare browser (i used opera)
so when i launch it, it opens up the searches on those websites for 2018 RS5 sorted by newest at the top
i would check it every few days
ended up with exactly what i wanted for a great price :)

http://kmarei.mooo.com:8000/files/br...20wheels/1.jpg

[SeatonS4]

if you are not in a hurry, figure out what exact specs you want
and do what i did
i had a cars.com autotrader, car gurus, edmunds, truecar, and carfax saved searches as the home page on a spare browser (i used opera)
so when i launch it, it opens up the searches on those websites for 2018 RS5 sorted by newest at the top
i would check it every few days
ended up with exactly what i wanted for a great price :)

http://kmarei.mooo.com:8000/files/br...20wheels/1.jpg

This is pretty much what I did as well. Checked everyday and had a few I was keeping my eye on and when mine showed up at the top of the list, I had it locked up in a few days.

[IamRacer X]

I bought my B9 RS5 SB new in '19. It still excites me today. Still solid too.

[Lionheart_CHP]

Prices are definitely softening. It will depend on the dealer how stubborn they want to be with coming down, but they will come down eventually like it or not.
I had an Autotrader search that I checked every couple of days and a few cars that I saved and contacted the dealerships. The car I bought listed at $72,473 in early August and I finally got it at $61,291 in November. As optioned, the car was a tick over $94k new and was first titled in June 2020 so I still have 20 months of factory warranty and 30-40-50 Audi Care in tact. That's a big reason I zeroed in on this particular one.

Sent from my Pixel 6a using Tapatalk

[c99]

I bought my B9 RS5 SB new in '19. It still excites me today. Still solid too.

How many miles on it? Thanks.

[Dan99]

Frist, I've searched and this forum, and being small, I don't see these questions as having been standardized/stickied...

For context, I just drove back to back a 2023 S5 sportback, which didn't seem an upgrade at all from my 2015 S4 (other than infotainment), and an 2023 RS5 coupe, which from a driving dynamics and drivetrain standpoint seemed in a whole other league from the S5 (and my S4).

Looking for a sub 20k mi, ~$60K B9 RS5 sportback, which seems to put me in a B9 not a B9.5. Just read this thread, but seems generally most of the changes are cosmetic/infotainment. Any reason to spend another ~$10k on a 2021?

Assuming no, what are the must have packages in other owners' views? Dynamic seems the only must...with nice upgrades for driver assistance, B&O, and carbon. Black optics is a must for me as well, aesthetically.

Any known issues on the 2.9T/platform yet? Seems pretty bulletproof like the B8, so far.

Lastly, anyone seeing this downward market trend continuing? Many of the vehicles I'm looking at have that have some market history are seeing 10-15% decreases from pricing just a month or so ago. I'm not in a rush, my car is paid for, mint, has only 35k mi on it, and is enjoyable to drive.

Appreciate the feedback, and hope to join the community soon.

I traded in my 2013 B8.5 S4 for a new 2019 B9 RS5 SB. I would describe the S4 as a sporty family car. I would describe the RS5 as a performance-oriented GT car that can behave like a sporty family car, but it has much more in reserve:

• Regarding the engines, I drove my S4 stock until the warranty was over, then tuned it with APR 93 octane Stage 2 ECU and TCU. The stock S4 is not in the same performance league as the RS5. The tuned S4 was much faster than stock, but still not as fast as the stock RS5. And, as you might expect, the tuned RS5 is in a different league than the tuned S4. You have to more to E-85 type fuels before an S4 reaches the same power level as a 93 octane RS5 tune. The RS5 engine has twin turbos for better response and less lag, bigger main bearings, a different intercooler, and high performance cats. Regarding reliability, there has been one report (that I know of) of an issue with rocker arms on early RS5s, but tuners like 034 have been able to run 9 second 1/4 miles without any reported failures, so I'm not sure if this is a real issue or just an isolated failure.

• Regarding transmissions, they are different. The ZF in the RS5 is an automatic and the DSG transmission in the S4 is a dual-clutch. The dual clutch provides a more direct link to the engine and feels more responsive and immediate. The ZF has 8 gears instead of 7 and has the ability to up and downshift multiple gears whereas the dual-clutch does not jump gears so well. Both transmissions need to be driven in Sport to keep the engine from lugging at really low engine speeds. TCU tunes improve the behavior of both transmissions.

• Regarding suspensions, my S4 had the standard suspension and it felt very similar to Comfort in the RS5. My RS5 has Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) and I use Comfort for a car full of passengers, Auto for daily driving, and Dynamic for mountains and track. The RS5 is lower, wider, has wider tires and wheels, better brakes, different springs, sway bars and a completely different approach to the shock absorbers. The suspension components are also tuned differently. For example, the Sport Differential in the S4 was noticeable in its stock settings but really did not become fun until the engine was tuned. The Sport Differential in the RS5 is more responsive and fun in its stock configuration - Auto makes the handling fairly neutral with the ability to invoke mild oversteer with the throttle, Dynamic provides more oversteer in all situations and much more aggressively under power. As a result of this and all the other suspension differences, the RS5 is much more capable and composed in the handling department.

Regarding B9 vs B9.5 RS5, the facelift models (B9.5) have multiple refinements here and there - different headlights, vents and diffusers, different suspension tuning, different implementation of the B&O sound system, a touch-based MMI and different virtual dashboards. Some people prefer the newer touch-based MMI, but I don't. I have driven both and prefer the mechanical wheel and buttons in the B9 instead of the touch screen in the B9.5. But this is personal preference so only you can decide. My advice is to test drive both and try to use the touch screen on a less than perfect road. The B9 allows you to put music on SD cards or USB sticks while the B9.5 is limited to USB sticks, but there are not really any meaningful differences in performance between the two.

Regarding options, my RS5 has RS Driver Assistance Package, Dynamic Package, 20" milled wheels, Black Optics Package, Black Audi and RS badges, Fine Nappa Leather, Dynamic Steering, and the B&O sound system. (I have all of the options except Dynamic Plus and Carbon Fiber exterior trim.) I would order my car the same way if I had it to do over again. One cautionary note on Dynamic vs Dynamic Plus - the carbon ceramic brakes in the Plus option are way more expensive to replace. In theory, they don't need to be replaced as often, but it's really pricey when that time comes. They also have to warm up some before they have the same bite as the standard steel brakes.

[sciprox]

I changed from 2015 S4 to 2019 RS5 sportback and very happy I made the move. Noticeable difference between the S and RS around handling and power. I did have a large single pulley and pro kit suspension on the S4 while with the RS the car is just perfect stock.

I also bought early in the pandemic but my car was fully optioned with everything except carbon disk breaks. I ended up at 70k out the door with 25k miles. If you can afford it and I definitely recommend the switch.

[Ed99]

I traded in my 2013 B8.5 S4 for a new 2019 B9 RS5 SB. I would describe the S4 as a sporty family car. I would describe the RS5 as a performance-oriented GT car that can behave like a sporty family car, but it has much more in reserve:

• Regarding the engines, I drove my S4 stock until the warranty was over, then tuned it with APR 93 octane Stage 2 ECU and TCU. The stock S4 is not in the same performance league as the RS5. The tuned S4 was much faster than stock, but still not as fast as the stock RS5. And, as you might expect, the tuned RS5 is in a different league than the tuned S4. You have to more to E-85 type fuels before an S4 reaches the same power level as a 93 octane RS5 tune. The RS5 engine has twin turbos for better response and less lag, bigger main bearings, a different intercooler, and high performance cats. Regarding reliability, there has been one report (that I know of) of an issue with rocker arms on early RS5s, but tuners like 034 have been able to run 9 second 1/4 miles without any reported failures, so I'm not sure if this is a real issue or just an isolated failure.

• Regarding transmissions, they are different. The ZF in the RS5 is an automatic and the DSG transmission in the S4 is a dual-clutch. The dual clutch provides a more direct link to the engine and feels more responsive and immediate. The ZF has 8 gears instead of 7 and has the ability to up and downshift multiple gears whereas the dual-clutch does not jump gears so well. Both transmissions need to be driven in Sport to keep the engine from lugging at really low engine speeds. TCU tunes improve the behavior of both transmissions.

• Regarding suspensions, my S4 had the standard suspension and it felt very similar to Comfort in the RS5. My RS5 has Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) and I use Comfort for a car full of passengers, Auto for daily driving, and Dynamic for mountains and track. The RS5 is lower, wider, has wider tires and wheels, better brakes, different springs, sway bars and a completely different approach to the shock absorbers. The suspension components are also tuned differently. For example, the Sport Differential in the S4 was noticeable in its stock settings but really did not become fun until the engine was tuned. The Sport Differential in the RS5 is more responsive and fun in its stock configuration - Auto makes the handling fairly neutral with the ability to invoke mild oversteer with the throttle, Dynamic provides more oversteer in all situations and much more aggressively under power. As a result of this and all the other suspension differences, the RS5 is much more capable and composed in the handling department.

Regarding B9 vs B9.5 RS5, the facelift models (B9.5) have multiple refinements here and there - different headlights, vents and diffusers, different suspension tuning, different implementation of the B&O sound system, a touch-based MMI and different virtual dashboards. Some people prefer the newer touch-based MMI, but I don't. I have driven both and prefer the mechanical wheel and buttons in the B9 instead of the touch screen in the B9.5. But this is personal preference so only you can decide. My advice is to test drive both and try to use the touch screen on a less than perfect road. The B9 allows you to put music on SD cards or USB sticks while the B9.5 is limited to USB sticks, but there are not really any meaningful differences in performance between the two.

Regarding options, my RS5 has RS Driver Assistance Package, Dynamic Package, 20" milled wheels, Black Optics Package, Black Audi and RS badges, Fine Nappa Leather, Dynamic Steering, and the B&O sound system. (I have all of the options except Dynamic Plus and Carbon Fiber exterior trim.) I would order my car the same way if I had it to do over again. One cautionary note on Dynamic vs Dynamic Plus - the carbon ceramic brakes in the Plus option are way more expensive to replace. In theory, they don't need to be replaced as often, but it's really pricey when that time comes. They also have to warm up some before they have the same bite as the standard steel brakes.

Great review and comparison. In terms of deals definitely the 2019 RS5 SB is a much better deal vs a 2021 as you can save around $25K. At the time when I was looking I wanted to pick up a 2019 but nothing was available for the spec and colour I wanted. So end up paying $25K plus tax more for a 2021 which I sort of regret because that money I could of spent for nicer aftermarket wheels, Lowering Suspension, and a tune and still have lots of money left over.

[ihave2seats]

I'm also currently debating the move from my stage 1 B8.5 S4 to a 2019 RS5. What is defined as "early" date range for the rocker arm issue? Thanks in advance!

[bloodstar57]

I just picked up a 2019 RS5 SB. Just make sure you have a good warranty both factory (remaining) and extended.

I had a B8 S5, there is no viable comparison to be made. The RS is a sharper car and does the Jekyll and Hyde thing very well. Only thing to mention is, the S4/5 will be a bit more comfortable in regards to stock suspension.

I've driven the G8x M3 & M4 on the race track (very hard). I still chose the RS5 - yes it was cheaper however, the issue was the comfort when I'm beating the car. The RS5 does comfort better, looks better and the interior is a nicer place to be. The BMW's even in comfort are still edgy.

[NYAUDIS4]

I just picked up a 2019 RS5 SB. Just make sure you have a good warranty both factory (remaining) and extended.

Curious, with few noted issues on the platform/driveline, what makes you think an extended warranty is a good investment?

[bloodstar57]

Curious, with few noted issues on the platform/driveline, what makes you think an extended warranty is a good investment?

Depends on how long you keep the vehicle. I always make sure I have factory and then another warranty period (certified or third party). I’ve had Audis with no problems and some with expensive repairs. It’s a piece of mind to have. I remember on my parents audi 100’s many many years ago; One had no problems and the other was at the dealership a lot.

[Dan99]

I'm also currently debating the move from my stage 1 B8.5 S4 to a 2019 RS5. What is defined as "early" date range for the rocker arm issue? Thanks in advance!

There is contradictory information in the forums about rocker arm revisions and manufacturing dates, so there is nothing definitive that I have seen. It is also not clear how prevalent this issue is, if at all. I think the only way to find out for a particular car would be to take the VIN to the parts dept at a dealer and see if they have the original part number, or to disassemble the top end. In my case, I did neither. I sent an oil sample to Blackstone at 50K miles on my 2019 RS5 SB (build date 10/18) and asked specifically if there were any signs of internal wear that might be produced by failing rocker arms. They told me there were no signs of any issues, and all the numbers looked great.

There are several things that drivers can do that accelerate the wear of engine parts, including rocker arms. First, you want to make sure you follow the break-in procedures when the car is new. One school of thought is that you should drive it like you stole it during the break-in phase, and that's the school of thought that induces premature wear, leads to unnecessary oil consumption, and perhaps to failed rocker arms. Second, once broken in you need to make sure oil (not water) is up to temperature before you get on it. My manual says that's 180F or more. Finally, some people like to drive in manual mode and run engines up against rev limiters. This is particularly hard on rocker arms.

If you are buying a used car you really don't know how it was broken in, but you might ask if you have access to the original owner. The people who drive it like you stole it are generally proud of this behavior and will share it with you. You might also ask how well it bounces against the rev limiter to see what type of response you get.