Overview & Reviews

True to brand nomenclature, the Audi S5 is the performance version of the A5 coupe and convertible. That means bigger engines, more horses and a stiffer suspension. The S5's exterior is set apart from its more mild-mannered sibling by a chrome-trimmed grille, quad tailpipes and more muscular bumpers. The resulting package is refined yet athletic, with luxury appointments that ensure comfort matched with a powertrain that won't disappoint.

The S5 is still in its first generation, but there have been significant changes through the years for new and used car shoppers to consider. The most notable of these occurred under the hood, as the coupe originally had a big, snarling V8 that arguably makes the car a future classic. The supercharged V6 that's always been in the cabriolet and in today's coupe is a commendable engine that produces ample power and improved fuel economy, but lacks a certain degree of the V8's character (not to mention 21 horses). Either way, though, it doesn't take away from the S5's status as one of the most appealing luxury coupes.

Current Audi S5
The Audi S5 is available as a coupe and convertible (cabriolet). Both are similarly equipped and feature all-wheel drive. Power comes from a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 good for 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The coupe comes with a six-speed manual transmission, while the Cabriolet receives a seven-speed automated manual transmission that's optional on the coupe.

The Audi S5 is largely based on the four-door S4, but with curvaceous lines inspired by Audi's Nuvolari concept vehicle that made the auto show rounds in 2003. In part to maintain that voluptuous figure, the cabriolet features a sleek soft top rather than a heavier retractable-hardtop design.

Both coupe and convertibles are offered in Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. Standard feature highlights of the Premium Plus include xenon headlights, the Audi Drive Select system (adjustable settings for the steering and transmission), leather and simulated suede upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker sound system. The Prestige additions include adaptive headlights, a blind-spot warning system, mobile WiFi, a navigation system and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. Options include adaptive cruise control, ventilated front seats and a neck-level heating system on the cabriolet.

Inside the cabin, the four-seat Audi S5 is appointed with sophisticated touches, such as finely stitched leather and genuine aluminum trim. The front sport seats offer plenty of space and support, although legroom could be better in the backseat. Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) controls the audio, climate and optional navigation systems, and is relatively easy to figure out. Although the S5 has the spirit of a sports car, it's still practical enough for everyday life. Both body styles offer about 12 cubic feet of trunk space, and their rear seats flip down to make even more room. When flipped up, though, the backseat is definitely on the cramped side for adults.

In our tests, we found the Audi S5 to be an excellent grand tourer. The supercharged V6 provides robust and thrilling performance. The steering feels crisp and the suspension, although non-adjustable, is about ideal as it is firm without being gut-busting. Brakes may seem a little touchy at first, but with acclimation they prove responsive and firm. Thanks to Quattro, the S5 provides excellent traction in all conditions, making it an ideal all-year choice for performance-minded buyers living where the weather occasionally turns foul. Power is normally distributed 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear, giving the S5 handling characteristics similar to those of a rear-wheel-drive car.

Used Audi S5 Models
The Audi S5 debuted for the 2008 model year as a coupe only, powered by a 4.2-liter 354-hp V8. It was a superb engine and used car shoppers should consider opting for an older model to get it. The S5 cabriolet arrived for 2010, but rather than the V8, it had the then-new 3.0-liter 333-hp supercharged V6. Transmission choices for the coupe included a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic, whereas the cabriolet came solely with a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual. That year also saw upgrades to the MMI electronics interface and optional navigation system.

For 2013 the V8 was dropped and the S5 received a slight styling update (with a more angular grille/headlights), a switch to electric-assisted steering, a revised MMI control interface and an available mobile WiFi feature. Apart from lacking Audi Drive Select and keyless entry and ignition as standard (they were optional though), these latter S5s are similar to today's version.

Those interested in a used cabriolet may be interested in the <a href="/audi/s4/review.html">S4 Cabriolet</a> it replaced.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 63.00

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  Awesome car - 2011 Audi S5
  By vivek - August 6 - 4:18 pm

  Beautiful car inside and out and what a joy to drive. Handles so confidently and smoothly. I also looked at BMW 335iX coupe (no camera and too harsh style), Mercedes E coupe (no 4-wheel option). The extra power over the A5 changes the car considerably. You dont go wrong if you pick this car.

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  Dream Car - 2010 Audi S5
  By Joegojoe - May 19 - 4:07 pm

  Purchased my new S5 Quatro Coupe about 30 days ago. Drove the BMW5, and Mercedes E class as well. I knew within 0.5 mi of the dealership that this was the one for me. I cant begin to express how much fun and nice this car is both to look at and drive. The handling in the corners is tight and responsive. In sport mode, the acceleration is enough to throw you back in the seats. On appearance, the angry look outside looks like its moving even while standing still. The interior is a wonderful blend of colors and quality textures that make me never want to get out. From my constant smile, my wife thinks I am having an affair, - but at least it is with a car!

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  New 2010 S5 convertible - 2010 Audi S5
  By steeda0011 - May 10 - 7:43 pm

  This is our third Audi convertible and this new S5 is a Superior car to the other two S4 convertibles we had. From the engine performance to the shape of the mirrors. Great car. Just not as fast as our 2009 BMW 335i coupe.

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  perfect... - 2010 Audi S5
  By willybomba - April 17 - 7:47 pm

  Traded an 08 s4 for it. Was shopping for a 911 or m3. This s5 is the perfect marriage of a luxury car and a sports car. I get continuous thumbs up at stoplights. Its funny. The m3 is faster. But it looks like every 2 door BMW on the road. The 911 is great. But just didnt fit me. The s5 is a dual personality. Gorgeous machine. I can say that the I found my perfect car. Get it before they change the engine to a v6. This will be the last v8. Unless you go to the rs4. Which will be a 25k premium. Get em while they last, they will be hard to get and will keep their value for years to come.

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  Heads wont stop turning to look at S5! - 2010 Audi S5
  By eddieversace - April 13 - 4:38 am

  If you want to keep a low profile and go un-noticed then, this is NOT the car to drive.I inherited enough money in Jan. 2010 to be able to buy me this car with cash in March 2010. I knew I wanted a Luxury/Sport Coupe, and narrowed it down to this or the Infiniti G37.Deciding factor for me was the way the Audi S5 Coupe felt while driving it. This car demands the attention of everyone within view with its sensory charged design and gadget options. Love the rims that came on the car but have already scraped them on two curbs. My auto insurance also increased from $145.00 per month premium to $414.00 per month. But, Its Worth It! Hoped the Convertible was AWD though!

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  Great but can be improved. - 2009 Audi S5
  By AUDI - February 19 - 6:16 pm

  First of all to all those who think this care is fast I hate to break it to you but its not. I shelled out close to 63 thousand dollars and I could have bought a Z06. Now on the other hand the looks are great and I love the handling. Since last november minor things have gone wrong with the car(electrical/led lighting etc). Audi should have built a faster car. I guess thats why they are coming up with the RS5 for 85K!

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  More Luxurious than My Vette - 2010 Audi S5
  By tboy - January 31 - 5:47 pm

  Having been a vette owner for years-the price of the new ones compared with new technology being introduced by other automakers made me look in a different direction. I drove new Corvettes, MB, Infiniti, and Lexus. When I finally drove the Audi S5 Cabriolet-I knew it was time to change. The style, the punch of the supercharged engine, the interior design, the technology Audi offers and the limited availability of the S5 Cab made me want one. It is roomy, enough power to cruise with some fun, sounds great and the tech gadgets are incredible.

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  Handling is beautiful - 2010 Audi S5
  By jeffy - November 22 - 7:33 pm

  I just got my S5in nov and what a purchase. The roar of the engine is awesome, the car loves to be driven fast, I have to keep a close eye on the speedometer, or before you know youre doing 100 no problem. The drive and handling is beautiful except that silly sunroof, Ill live though, I dont recommend this car because I dont want to see too many on the road. Just kidding get one.

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  Little Audi Red Convertible - 2016 Audi S5
  By Ras Smith - November 4 - 6:44 pm

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  Couldnt Ask for More! - 2008 Audi S5
  By Aulm - October 20 - 3:43 pm

  What a great car to own and drive. I looked at the new M3, AWD250, 335Xi. This is a great daily driver - even though Minnesota winters thanks to AWD. Handles great and performs like a dream. Not to mention the downright serene exhaust note. Suspension is firm enough to eat up the turns, but soft enough to not leave you bruised upon arrival. Great GT cruiser. Getting MUCH better MPG than the sticker claims even with fairly aggressive driving. B&O Sound system is great and a must have add on. Every time I get in this car Im glad I went with the S5. A great blend of performance and fun - yet supply enough to be a daily driver. Now an Audi convert! (past cars MB E5004matic)