Summary
The Audi S5 has been a popular premium coupe (two-door) in Canada since its debut in 2008. Blending good looks, fun-loving driving dynamics and high-end interior design, it covers a lot of bases for many drivers. The S5 comes in a multitude of flavours: What began as a coupe is now also available as a convertible and sportback—a sloping rear end design with roof-hinged cargo hold. Two V6 engine options—turbocharged and supercharged—are on offer as well as a V8. Manual and automatic transmissions are available, both hooked up to Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system.
Safety
Every Audi S5 model from debut to the present includes standard safety features such as six airbags and tire pressure monitoring. Also included is a central locking feature that will automatically unlock after it detects an airbag deployment. A standard electronic stability program reacts to grip loss by braking any individual wheel to regain control quickly. Newer models from 2018 feature even more advanced safety features as extras, including:
- Blind spot warning system
- A top-view camera for a full 360-degree view
- Rear cross-traffic alert warns of perpendicular traffic—handy in parking lots
- Exit warning system notifies passengers of incoming objects before they open their doors
Interior
Audi has a long history as a purveyor of high-quality interiors, and the S5 is no exception. Its cabin design is uncluttered, with all important touch points falling easily to hand. Driver and front passenger both get eight-way adjustable heated leather seats. Later editions from 2018 feature a sporty flat-bottomed leather steering wheel, while the traditional steering wheel comes heated as a no-cost option. This car's interior has come in many shades over its decade-plus life—black is standard, with red, cream and grey options being popular choices.
Technology
As German luxury cars, the Audi S5 coupe, convertible and sportback all come with a wide range of tech features. Electronic cruise control and electronic parking brake are included. Ten-speaker sound is also standard, while newer models from 2016 have an optional 19-speaker Bang and Olufsen setup. Audi's MMI infotainment system is regarded by many as one of the best of its kind in the automotive realm. It was optional on the S5 from 2008 and arrived on all trims for 2013.
Space
By sharing its platform with the Audi A4 sedan, the S5 offers ample interior space for its four passengers to stretch out. The sporty exterior styling means headroom in the coupe and convertible's rear seat is limited. If you're planning on having adults or older children back there more frequently, it's worth checking out the sportback body style, with its extra set of doors.
Comfort
“S” models are Audi's sportier options, and the S5 sticks to tradition here. Its standard quattro all-wheel drive keeps it glued to the road. Whether you pick the roaring V8 engine of older coupe models or the torquey super- or turbocharged V6, the S5 boasts well over 300 horsepower, making the 0–100 km/h run in less than five seconds. Driving enthusiasts will be saddened to know Audi has slowly phased out the manual transmission.
