Audi S5 Sportback Review: Is It Worth It?
So, you're eyeing up the Audi S5 Sportback, huh? Good choice! It's a sleek, sporty beast that turns heads and offers a thrilling driving experience. But before you jump in, let's dive deep into a comprehensive review, exploring everything from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and practicality. We'll even peek at what Carwow and other experts have to say, so you can make an informed decision. Is it truly worth the investment? Let's find out!
Performance and Engine
The heart of the Audi S5 Sportback is its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. This powerhouse churns out a hefty 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? Blistering acceleration! You'll be able to go from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds. That's seriously quick! The engine is incredibly responsive, providing instant power when you need it. Whether you're merging onto the highway or overtaking slow-moving traffic, the S5 Sportback has you covered.
But it's not just about raw power. The engine is also refined and smooth, making it a joy to drive in everyday situations. It doesn't feel strained or overly aggressive, even when you're pushing it hard. This balance of power and refinement is one of the things that sets the S5 Sportback apart from its rivals. The eight-speed automatic transmission is a perfect match for the engine, providing quick and seamless gear changes. It always seems to be in the right gear, whether you're cruising on the open road or tackling twisty backroads. You can also take control yourself using the paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, which adds an extra layer of engagement.
Fuel economy is respectable for a car with this level of performance. You can expect to get around 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Of course, your actual fuel economy will depend on your driving style and conditions. If you have a heavy foot, you'll likely see those numbers drop. But if you're careful and drive conservatively, you can definitely achieve the advertised fuel economy figures. The S5 Sportback also comes standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. This system provides excellent traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions. You'll feel confident and in control, even when driving on snow or ice. The quattro system also helps to improve handling, allowing you to corner with greater precision and confidence. Overall, the performance and engine of the Audi S5 Sportback are truly impressive. It's a car that's equally at home on the track and on the road. If you're looking for a car that can deliver both thrills and refinement, the S5 Sportback is definitely worth considering.
Handling and Ride Quality
Beyond just straight-line speed, the Audi S5 Sportback truly shines in its handling and ride quality. The car feels planted and confident in corners, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and precise steering. The steering is nicely weighted and provides good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. You'll be able to confidently carve through corners, knowing that the car will respond predictably and accurately.
The S5 Sportback also offers a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, preventing them from jarring you inside the cabin. This is especially important if you plan on using the car for long road trips. You won't feel fatigued or beat up after hours behind the wheel. The car's adaptive dampers, which are standard on some trims, further enhance the ride quality. These dampers automatically adjust to the road conditions, providing the optimal balance of comfort and handling. You can also manually adjust the dampers using the Audi drive select system, which allows you to choose between different driving modes.
In dynamic mode, the dampers firm up, providing a sportier and more engaging driving experience. In comfort mode, the dampers soften, providing a more relaxed and comfortable ride. The Audi drive select system also allows you to adjust other parameters, such as the steering, throttle response, and transmission settings. This allows you to tailor the car's driving characteristics to your personal preferences. The brakes are also excellent, providing strong and consistent stopping power. They're easy to modulate, allowing you to smoothly and confidently bring the car to a halt. Overall, the handling and ride quality of the Audi S5 Sportback are exceptional. It's a car that's both fun to drive and comfortable to ride in.
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the Audi S5 Sportback, you're greeted by a premium and well-designed interior. The materials are high-quality, and the fit and finish are excellent. Everything feels solid and well-put-together. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning and bolstering. They're perfect for long drives, keeping you comfortable and relaxed. The front seats are also heated and power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The rear seats are surprisingly spacious for a car in this class. There's enough legroom and headroom for adults to sit comfortably, even on longer journeys. The rear seats also fold down, allowing you to expand the cargo area.
The S5 Sportback comes standard with a host of features, including a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. The panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, making the cabin feel airy and spacious. The leather upholstery is soft and supple, adding to the luxurious feel of the interior. The Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers crisp and clear audio, providing an immersive listening experience. The car also comes standard with Audi's virtual cockpit, which is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that displays important information such as speed, navigation, and engine data. The virtual cockpit is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your personal preferences. The infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. It also comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. Overall, the interior and comfort of the Audi S5 Sportback are top-notch. It's a car that's both luxurious and practical, making it a great choice for everyday driving.
Practicality and Space
The Audi S5 Sportback isn't just about performance and luxury; it also offers a surprising amount of practicality and space. The Sportback design, with its sloping roofline, doesn't compromise on rear headroom, making it comfortable for adults in the back. The boot (trunk) space is also generous, offering ample room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. You can easily fit a couple of suitcases or a set of golf clubs in the back. The rear seats also fold down, allowing you to expand the cargo area even further. This is especially useful if you need to carry larger items, such as furniture or bicycles.
In terms of storage, the S5 Sportback has plenty of cubbies and compartments throughout the cabin. There's a decent-sized glovebox, a center console with cupholders, and door pockets that can hold water bottles. The car also has a number of USB ports and power outlets, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. The S5 Sportback is also relatively easy to park, thanks to its compact size and available parking sensors and cameras. You'll be able to navigate tight city streets and parking garages with ease. Overall, the practicality and space of the Audi S5 Sportback are impressive. It's a car that can handle both everyday errands and longer road trips with ease.
Technology and Features
Audi is known for its cutting-edge technology, and the S5 Sportback is no exception. The car comes packed with a wide array of advanced features, designed to enhance your driving experience and keep you connected. The centerpiece of the technology is Audi's MMI infotainment system, which features a large touchscreen display, voice control, and a host of connectivity options. You can use the system to control everything from the audio system to the navigation system to the climate control.
The S5 Sportback also comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to keep you safe and alert on the road, reducing the risk of accidents. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the car in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while automatic emergency braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. The car also has a blind-spot monitoring system, which alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot. This is especially useful when changing lanes on the highway. Other available technology features include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, and a 360-degree camera, which provides a bird's-eye view of the car and its surroundings. Overall, the technology and features of the Audi S5 Sportback are state-of-the-art. It's a car that's designed to make your life easier and more enjoyable.
Carwow's Verdict and Other Reviews
So, what do the experts at Carwow and other reputable reviewers think about the Audi S5 Sportback? Generally, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Carwow often praises the S5 Sportback for its powerful engine, stylish design, and comfortable interior. They highlight its impressive performance and all-weather capability thanks to the quattro all-wheel-drive system. However, some reviews point out that the S5 Sportback can be a bit pricey compared to its rivals, and the rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller passengers.
Other reviews from sources like Edmunds and MotorTrend echo similar sentiments, praising the car's performance and handling, while also noting its relatively high price tag. Many reviewers also appreciate the S5 Sportback's understated elegance, which sets it apart from more overtly sporty competitors. Ultimately, the consensus is that the Audi S5 Sportback is a well-rounded and highly desirable car, but it's important to weigh its strengths and weaknesses against your individual needs and budget.
Is the Audi S5 Sportback Worth It?
After considering all aspects of the Audi S5 Sportback, the big question remains: is it worth the investment? The answer, as always, depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you're looking for a car that offers a thrilling driving experience, a luxurious interior, and a good dose of practicality, the S5 Sportback is definitely worth considering. Its powerful engine, sharp handling, and comfortable ride make it a joy to drive, while its spacious interior and generous cargo capacity make it a practical choice for everyday use.
However, the S5 Sportback is not a cheap car. Its price tag is higher than many of its rivals, and you'll also need to factor in the cost of insurance, maintenance, and fuel. If you're on a tight budget, there may be other options that offer better value for money. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy an Audi S5 Sportback is a personal one. But if you have the means and you're looking for a car that can deliver both thrills and refinement, the S5 Sportback is definitely worth a look. Just be sure to do your research, read reviews, and take a test drive before making a final decision. Good luck!
