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 31 through 40 of 63.00

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  You wont be disappointed - 2010 Audi S5
  By Mac - October 8 - 9:55 am

  My first Audi and this car is awesome! The S5 is worth the extra $. Great sound, performance, style and handling. Ive only had for 1 month so far, but all is good. The "new" navi system & tech pkg is nice and my two kids are fine with back seat area (rare for a coupe). The only option I ordered was the "Prestige Pkg". Im not a track guy but I do enjoy performance driving. Ive heard good things about Spt Diff, Drv Select, and Drv Asst pkgs as well. This is my 1st Tiptronic (all previous cars were 6sp) and I like the "sport option" shift mode as well as the "paddle shifting". Im through the break in period and the car is a delight to drive. Its my daily driver, no regrets.

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  Best of the Lot - 2010 Audi S5
  By Bill Boswell - October 3 - 10:12 pm

  This is my 4th Audi. First 3 were A6s & the last two were 4.2L S-Line. Each Audi Ive owned was better than the last one and this is no exception. This is a stunning, head-turning vehicle, inside and out. Mine is Canyon Red, no longer standard and special ordered, but, as I love the color, worth every extra penny. It has driver assist, which also alerts one about cars in the blind spot, sports differential, and drive select highly recommend all 3 and the latter 2 enhance performance. Loads of fun, responsive as all get out, and very comfortable even on 6 hr trips. Gas drinker, mainly due to a smaller tank but I get 27 on the road. I tried BMW M3 & 6-Series Coupe. This is nicer.

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  Super satisfied - 2018 Audi S5
  By John Donnelly - September 24 - 9:55 pm

  More than enough horsepower. Handling is great

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  My Thoughts - 2009 Audi S5
  By Tom - May 31 - 1:10 pm

  S5 is indeed a beautiful car. I just got it, but I must say it is not that great of a car. I own an M5 2007 so there is a big difference in performance. When driving you must step on the gas more due to the quattro system. When you release you will feel a slight deceleration which makes people think you are braking but you are not. The handling is not as nice due to the really light wheel. I do not get any feedback like when I drive rear wheel cars. You will notice it the most when you drive on twisty roads. I do understeer on turns since the line of entry is a little different with this car. Great car for everyday drive but for performance the 335i can boogie against this car.

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  Amazing! - 2009 Audi S5
  By BMM - May 30 - 2:13 am

  Ive owned my new S5 for two weeks now...test drove everything (many, many times) from the 335i, Cayenne GTS, M3, G37, 650i, others..and yes, this was the winner. First, let me mention it looks phenomenal in person, way better than in pictures and better than anything else under $100k. Ive found the V8 is perfectly robust and yet sumptuous, and the acceleration is long and powerful in any gear. The interior made my former 3-series feel outdated instantly. This is a perfect touring GT where the M3 is a sports car, and that touch of gentleman is exactly what I was looking for.

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  Awesome - 2009 Audi S5
  By Mike - May 23 - 5:25 am

  Bought my US Spec Auto S5 over here in Stuttgart Germany. The 1st 600 miles break in period was hard to do on the autobahn. I have slowly stepped it up since and will not really see what it can do until I have passed the 2500 mile mark. All and all so far it has been everything I have expected. A few things I have noted are that the IPOD option does not come with an IPOD adaptor! Seats are a 6 on long trips due to comfort and I have noticed that the tires seem a little narrow over 100 mph. If you need to do an emergency slow down, the back end seems to want to get away from you but the ESP kicks in and keeps it under control. Overall I still give it a 9.

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  Best Daily Driver - 2009 Audi S5
  By wrinkledoc - May 8 - 10:47 am

  This car is by far the best daily driver. My last car was a Porsche 997 S Cab and before that a BMW E46 M3 Cab. Unless you are going to take this car to a race track it outshines the others. It is way more comfortable and had great Cabin Tech. Ipod integration is outstanding as is the B&O Sound System. If you are looking for a fast, sporty, great looking daily driver look no further. Compared to other German cars with this level of performance it is also a good value. There are not many of these on the road in my area and the car gets a lot of attention.

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  Love my Audi S5 - 2016 Audi S5
  By James - February 22 - 3:46 am

  Great power and comfortable driving experience. Beautiful exterior and interior. We receive compliments on it weekly at grocery stores, gas stations, etc. The car is a real head turner. Would definitely purchase again.

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  My S5 - 2009 Audi S5
  By S5 - February 13 - 11:52 pm

  Let me start by saying that I have test driven a lot of cars before finally choosing the S5. I have ordered mine and I got it about 8 months later. Mine is a red interior on black exterior. I have had the car for less than two months now. What do I think? I absolutely love the car. I love the style, performance, stability and exclusivity. I live in downtown San Diego and I have not seen any other S5 yet. I keep getting all kinda compliments on the car. Most importantly, I really enjoy the ride and the power. How about the MPG? I do not give a damn!!! I always find excuses to drive it around. Who cares about the mileage when the car is soo much fun to drive??

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  Chicago S5 - 2008 Audi S5
  By sdm - January 16 - 1:00 pm

  Have had my S5 for almost a year. Still love it every time I get in. Great overall experience. This is my 4th Audi: A8, 2 S4s and now S5. My favorite overall. Greatly improved fit/finish compared to my 2 S4s. Great in snow with high-performance snow tires. I would buy this car again without hesitation. Enjoying it too much to worry about mileage. I didnt get it for the mileage. Still like to just look at it after a year-great design.