The enhanced version of the German automaker’s compact A5 gets its spark from a 354-horsepower V-8, a sport-tuned suspension and all-wheel drive, plus styling tweaks that add both sporty elan and elegant flair.
But there is one glaring flaw that mars this otherwise superb sports coupe. Because I usually admire the precise steering systems from Audi and parent company Volkswagen, I was heartily disappointed in the twitchy, numb steering of the S5.
Though responsive, it has a disconnected feel with zero feedback to the driver. The steering is just plain fidgety, plus it hunts unpleasantly on road grooves and imperfections. Not so critical in low-speed urban driving or on back roads, but on the highway, it takes real concentration to not veer all over your lane.
Too bad, really, since S5 performs so well in every other respect. The engine accelerates with silky-smooth power and a pleasingly subdued roar, and S5 handles brilliantly on sharp corners and sweeping curves.
Audi’s recent history has been a litany of home runs, from the wonderfully exotic R8 midengine sports car to the solid A6 midsize sedan. With its lineup of cars with beautiful interiors and refined road manners, Audi has moved up to parity with German giants BMW and Mercedes-Benz while carving out its own niche in style and image.
As a pioneer of road-performance all-wheel drive, which Audi calls Quattro, the cars are favored by driving enthusiasts who want something different from the usual Benzes and Beemers.
S5 would be right up there in the win column if not for that dodgy steering.
Vehicle type: Four-passenger, two-door coupe, all-wheel drive.
Engine: 4.2-liter V-8, 354 horsepower at 6,800 rpm, 325 pound-feet torque at 3,500 rpm.
Transmission: Six-speed manual.
Wheelbase: 108.3 inches.
Overall length: 182.5 inches.
Curb weight: 3,891 pounds.
EPA rating: 14 city, 21 highway.
HIGHS: Poised drivability, gorgeous styling, accommodating interior.
LOWS: Twitchy steering, tire thump, grim fuel mileage.
THE LOWDOWN
PERFORMANCE: The small but potent V-8 kicks out plenty of pull, maybe not as much as the frenetic 420-horsepower RS4 sport sedan, but enough for a satisfying performance. You pay for all that at the gas pump. A six-speed manual is the only transmission available for now, with an automatic promised in the future. Shifting is quick and precise, but the clutch felt spongy.
DRIVABILITY: Despite the flawed steering, S5 rates high in the fun-to-drive category.The well-engineered suspension, enhanced with all-wheel drive and stability control, makes fast cornering effortless. The car always feels poised and balanced.
The firm ride can get harsh, and the tires thump loudly on minor road irregularities.
STYLING: Audi takes the streamlined look of the A5 and adds distinctive touches to make S5 look elegant and aggressive. S5 gets a different grille treatment, four tailpipes and 19-inch alloy wheels. A string of small LED beams accent the headlights, also found on Audi R8 and S6 performance cars. The lights instantly identify the Audi sport models.
INTERIOR: Another sharp interior from Audi, although the test car was trimmed in an unrelieved black monotone. A well-integrated swiveling knob makes it simple to switch through audio, navigation and climate-control settings. Other automakers should emulate this design.
BOTTOM LINE: Pricey at $50,000, though the S5 delivers a lot of style, performance and luxury. Now, let’s hope Audi can dial in the steering a bit better.
PRICING
Base price: $50,500.
Price as tested: $57,515.
OPTIONS
– Navigation system, $2,390.
– Technology package, with rear-view camera, adaptive headlights and keyless entry and start, $1,700.
– Premium sound system, $850.
– Shipping, $775.
