The S5 coupe and convertible are the lovable delinquents in Audi's family of respectable compacts. Loaded with performance upgrades, the S5 can get downright aggressive, even if it looks like an upstanding citizen on the outside.
What's New for 2016
Aside from a couple of new trim options, the S5 carries on as before.
Choosing Your Audi S5
The S5 shares its body with the more common A5, but looks slightly more aggressive thanks to a lowered suspension, unique 18-inch wheels and subtle trim revisions. The important difference lies under the hood of the S5: a 333-horsepower supercharged 3-liter V6, which can be paired with a six-speed manual (coupe only) or a seven-speed automated manual transmission. Selectable driving modes, all-wheel drive and summer performance tires are standard across the board. Expect to pay a premium of about $7,000 for the convertible, which carries a power soft top and a retractable rear window that doubles as a wind deflector.
The S5 skips Audi's entry-level Premium trim level and goes straight to Premium Plus. For $6,250 more, you can upgrade to full-boat Prestige trim.
Includes leather and faux suede upholstery (all leather on convertible), heated front sport seats with driver memory, a sunroof (coupe), xenon headlamps, LED running lights, Bluetooth phone and a 10-speaker sound system with satellite radio. The Technology package ($3,150) adds parking sensors, a review camera, an iPod interface, a DVD player, a web-based navigation system, and WiFi capability with integrated apps. The Black Optic package throws in gloss black exterior trim and 19-inch titanium-finish wheels for $1,300. Coupes can get an extended Nappa leather interior, while convertibles qualify for a Comfort package with ventilated Milano leather seats and a head-level heating system. A Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system is available on both body styles.
Gets the Technology package and Bang & Olufsen system as standard, plus adaptive headlamps. Exclusive to the Prestige is the $2,750 Driver Assistance package, which adds dynamic-assist steering and adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability. Convertibles can get the same Comfort package available on the Premium Plus. A Luxury package, optional on the Prestige coupe only, serves up an extended Milano leather interior and 12-way power seats. The Black Optic package continues as an option.
Any S5 can be equipped with an adaptive suspension system and a sport differential that transfers power between the rear wheel. Both of these performance upgrades are reasonably priced at $1,100 each.
CarsDirect Tip
If you're interested in the Technology package, we recommend upgrading to the Prestige, where it's standard, and you have access to additional options.
