2026 Audi S5 Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs

High-performance compact models have been an important part of the Audi brand since the days when Audi first pioneered performance AWD technology. The S5 comes with a powerful V6 engine, sport suspension, and big brakes, yet loses none of the function or comfort of the A5 sedan it’s based on. Touches like a unique grille, bigger wheels, and red brake calipers visually set the S5 apart from the A5 while also giving it a subtly more aggressive look. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, but still contains a generous helping of the kind of features that tell you this is a much more serious driver’s car than the standard A5. Advanced technology is also found throughout, from the industry-leading headlights to the adaptive sport suspension, the S5 benefits immensely from Audi’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries.

Performance is the main thing that sets the S5 apart from the A5, and the engine is where that is most obvious. The S5 comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to get it from 0 to 60 in just 4.3 seconds, which is 1.3 seconds quicker than the standard A5. The engine is mated to Audi’s lightning-quick 7-speed S tronic® dual clutch transmission, and quattro all-wheel drive is standard. Stopping in the S5 is quicker too, thanks to the bigger 14.2-inch front brake rotors and 13.8-inch rear brake rotors. The S5 comes with sport-tuned suspension for flat cornering and responsive handling, but you also have the option to improve this further with the available adaptive suspension.

Advanced technology has always been a top priority, and a quick look at Audi’s history in motorsports will tell you that this is especially true of the brand’s high-performance models. But the advanced technology in the S5 isn’t just limited to the features that make it go fast. The available Matrix LED headlights, for example, are made up of thousands of individually dimmable LEDs that are constantly adjusting brightness levels to give you maximum illumination without the risk of blinding other drivers. The taillights, also, are OLED panels, allowing for maximum visibility. Advanced heat-insulating glass keeps the cabin cool on hot days, and available three-zone automatic climate control helps keep everyone at a comfortable temperature year-round. There is even an available passenger-side infotainment touchscreen, since the driver will no doubt be busy enjoying the superb driving dynamics.

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  Starting at $63,300 MSRP*

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  3.0-liter TFSI® turbocharged V6

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  19'' 5-double-V-spoke design wheels, bicolor finish

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  S sport suspension

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  Red brake calipers

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  Top view camera

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  Starting at $66,200 MSRP*

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  Adaptive cruise assist

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  Park assist plus

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  Matrix design LED headlights

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  Bang & Olufsen® sound system with 3D sound and front headrest speakers

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  Dashcam

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  Starting at $70,900 MSRP*

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  Sport adaptive damping suspension

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  MMI® passenger display with 10.9” screen

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  Fine Nappa / Pearl Nappa leather seats

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  Front sport seats plus with ventilation and massage

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  Heated rear seats