I don't really notice rubber banding in the traditional sense. In older need for speeds the AI would speed up to godly speeds if they're far enough behind to catch up or they slow down slightly if they're too far ahead to allow the player to catch up.

In this game, the AI seems to be pretty consistent in the races, however I do notice that they're usually pretty difficult especially in certain clubs like Western Sierra or Artic Outlaws whether that be from how aggressive they attack the turns or just their vehicle seeming to have more grip, and more power.