Exploring the Audi S5: How fast is an Audi S5?
I’ve spent a good chunk of time in Audi’s quick middle child, the Audi S5—coupes on mountain switchbacks, Sportbacks on school runs, and a Cabriolet that did its best work at sunset. The headline everyone asks? How fast is it. The answer doesn’t disappoint, but the way the S5 delivers that speed—calm, composed, and quietly ruthless—is what sticks with you.
Audi S5 performance: the numbers that matter
On paper, the current Audi S5 looks tidy and efficient; on the road, it’s properly quick. My stopwatch told the same story Audi does:
- Engine: 3.0-liter TFSI turbocharged V6
- Output: 349 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque
- Drivetrain: Quattro all-wheel drive with available sport rear differential
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with launch control
- 0–60 mph: about 4.3–4.6 seconds (Coupe quickest, Sportback close behind)
- Top speed: electronically limited to 155 mph (with performance tires)
- EPA fuel economy: roughly 21/29 mpg city/highway (Sportback), depending on spec
Out on a damp on-ramp, the S5 just hooks up and goes. No wheelspin histrionics, no drama—just a fat wave of torque from 1,370 rpm and a clean hit of speed. It’s the sort of pace that shrinks commutes and makes you early to dinner. Not a bad problem to have.
Why the Audi S5 is so quick in real life
There’s a bit of alchemy here. The twin-scroll turbo V6 spools early and hard, and the 8-speed automatic keeps the engine in the thick of its torque even when you’re just passing traffic. Audi’s Quattro system remains the no-drama king in bad weather; when I tried it on rough, rain-slicked backroads, the S5 felt planted enough to sip coffee with one hand—hypothetically, of course.
Turn on Dynamic mode, prime launch control, and the S5 catapults off the line with a chirp, then settles into a linear surge that doesn’t fade. Steering is precise if not chatty. Brakes take abuse without blinking. It’s confidence, bottled.
Living with an Audi S5: speed meets everyday sense
I noticed right away how “Audi” the cabin feels: tight panel gaps, quality everywhere you poke, and noise levels low enough to hear your kids argue about who gets the last gummy bear in the back. Front sport seats are just right—firm, supportive, and long-trip friendly. The Virtual Cockpit remains a favorite; a crisp Google Earth-style map between the dials never gets old.
- Bang & Olufsen 3D audio: big, clear, and immersive
- Driver aids: adaptive cruise, lane guidance, and a 360-degree camera that saves wheels
- Practicality: Coupe for style, Cabriolet for sun, Sportback for real life (adult-friendly rear seat, useful hatch)
Keeping the Audi S5 pristine: floor mats that actually fit
Quick confession: I’m fussy about interiors. Which is why I’ve been using AutoWin’s custom-fit mats in test cars when I can. They’re cut to the S5’s exact floor shape, so gravel, snow salt, and post-beach sand don’t end up ground into the carpet.
For S5 owners who obsess like I do, these are worth a look:
Audi S5 vs the usual suspects
Spec sheets don’t tell the whole story, but they’re a good place to start. Here’s how the Audi S5 stacks up against its main rivals:
| Model | Power/Torque | 0–60 mph | Drivetrain | Starting Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi S5 (Coupe/Sportback) | 349 hp / 369 lb-ft | 4.3–4.6 s | AWD (quattro) | Low–mid $60Ks |
| BMW M440i xDrive | 382 hp / 369 lb-ft | ~4.1 s | AWD | ~$62K |
| Mercedes-AMG C43 | 402 hp / 369 lb-ft | ~4.6 s | AWD | ~$61K |
| Lexus RC 350 F Sport (AWD) | 311 hp / 280 lb-ft | ~5.7 s | AWD | ~$51K |
On feel alone, the Audi S5 lands between the BMW’s exuberance and the Benz’s crispness, with all-weather traction that often makes it the smart year-round pick. If you want the most usable back seat and cargo area, the S5 Sportback is the sweet spot.
Efficiency and ownership notes
Fuel economy is decent for a luxury performance car: mid-20s combined in my hands, better on long freeway slogs. It takes premium fuel (91+ octane). As for running costs, it’s a premium German car—so yes, maintenance isn’t Civic-cheap—but staying on top of scheduled service keeps the Audi S5 happy for the long haul. A few owners mentioned to me that tires and brakes wear faster if you drive it like it begs you to. Fair.
Audi S5 quirks I noticed
- The MMI can be a beat behind when hopping between apps—minor, but there.
- Wireless CarPlay and charging pads are great, until the phone gets toasty under hard driving.
- Coupe rear seats are adult-possible for short hops; Sportback is genuinely usable.
- Ride on 19s strikes a fine balance; 20s look ace but can thump on rough city streets.
Which Audi S5 is the fastest?
- 2008–2012: 4.2-liter V8 (354 hp). Glorious noise, not the quickest—think high-4s to low-5s to 60.
- 2013–2017: 3.0-liter supercharged V6 (333 hp). Strong midrange, ~4.7–4.9 seconds to 60.
- 2018–present: 3.0-liter turbo V6 (349 hp). The quickest generation—generally 4.3–4.6 seconds.
If you want the most speed with the least drama, go for a newer Audi S5 with the sport differential. It’s the quiet assassin of the bunch.
Feature highlights that make the Audi S5 shine
- 349-hp turbo V6 with launch control
- Quattro all-wheel drive with available sport rear diff
- Virtual Cockpit with sharp, configurable displays
- Bang & Olufsen 3D premium audio
- Heated/ventilated front sport seats and available massaging
- Comprehensive driver assistance options
Conclusion: how fast is an Audi S5, and who is it for?
Short answer: fast enough to embarrass yesterday’s super-sedans, with a 0–60 around the mid-4s and a 155-mph limiter. Longer answer: the Audi S5 is the grown-up way to go quickly. It’s a luxury SUV alternative for people who still like a car that sits low and corners flat—a premium coupe or Sportback with real pace and everyday civility. And if you care about keeping it fresh inside, those AutoWin mats are a simple win.
Quick FAQ: Audi S5
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How fast is an Audi S5?
Most current models do 0–60 mph in about 4.3–4.6 seconds and are limited to 155 mph. -
Is the Audi S5 supercharged or turbocharged?
Older (2013–2017) models were supercharged; current Audi S5 models use a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. -
Does the Audi S5 have launch control?
Yes, many modern S5s have launch control via the 8-speed automatic—quick and consistent. -
What fuel does the Audi S5 require?
Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher) for best performance and efficiency. -
Coupe or Sportback—which should I buy?
Coupe for style and sun-seeking Cabriolet vibes; Sportback if you want legit rear-seat space and a big hatch without losing the Audi S5’s speed.
