RS5 – FORM AND FUNCTION

Joe came to us with his B8.5 RS5 for a series of performance and aesthetic modifications after just having the car re-painted at a local Denver body shop. We were more than happy to take his project on. While our projects have ranged from simple oil changes to full motor swaps, Joe’s RS5 represents a well-executed, slightly modified “OEM+” build.

First on this list was a set of JHM’s 2.75” Performance Downpipes and X-Pipe. Joe already had a muffler delete previously done, but to open up the exhaust even further, we installed these higher-flowing downpipes. They give a great added deep tone without excessive drone.

Next was to tackle the wheels and suspension. Visually, the biggest change you can make to a car. For suspension, we started with H&R OE Sport Lowering Springs to reduce the height of the vehicle. Then we added some GMG Sway Bars to help the vehicle’s cornering performance. For wheels we put on a beautiful set of 20” BBS CI-Rs wrapped in 275/30 R20 Continental Extreme Contact DWS06 tires. DWS06s are some of the best all-weather tires we’ve used, and since Joe takes his RS5 up to the mountains, we knew his setup had to be ready for all weather conditions. To make sure everything was in specification, a full 4-wheel alignment was performed. 

To add some extra exterior flare, Joe spec’d out some tasty carbon bits. On B8.5 RS5’s, there is a pop-up spoiler that’s activated once the vehicle reaches a certain speed. Typically, this piece is body colored, but Joe wanted it to be in carbon fiber. ECS Tuning makes a carbon trunk spoiler which is what we used. We also replaced the antenna cover with a carbon piece also made by ECS. 

On the interior, we installed a set of LEYO Billet Paddle Shifter Extensions to increase the surface area of the shifting elements while giving a high-quality billet aluminum feel. A Black Forrest Industries alcantara weighted shift knob gave a nicer feel than a stock shifter and a personalized touch for Joe. Lastly, a P3 integrated gauge in the left side driver’s air vent gives a myriad of vehicle information at the driver’s fingertips and was a nice finishing touch to Joe’s build. 

Joe has since reported that he is loving his car more than ever, and that he is more than pleased with all of the modifications we performed! We thank you for the opportunity, Joe!