Audi S5 Adds Power to All-New Model

Audi isn’t going to make us wait for the high-performance version of its all-new A5 coupe. The S5 packs a 354-hp V-8 and Quattro all-wheel drive and it hits 62 mph in 5.1 seconds.

That should be all we have to say about that. The S5 will go on sale in November with a six-speed manual transmission. An automatic will be available six months later. Having the choice between transmissions is a nice plus, since other Audi S models come with either one or the other, but not both. The enthusiast audience still prefers to shift for themselves, especially in a coupe, but there is a growing group of those who enjoy shift-paddle equipped automatics.

There’s also a hefty sport suspension that lowers the car’s stance and adds to the handling response. Eighteen-inch wheels, xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights are also standard.

Cosmetic enhancements over the A5 include aluminum painted side mirrors, a larger spoiler, larger air intakes and different front and rear bumper treatments.

Audi sure didn’t let its new coupe model debut empty-handed, with both variants coming out at once. We can’t wait to drive both — but are probably looking forward to the S5 a little bit more.