Audi S5

The Audi S5 is a high-performance executive four-door coupe developed by Audi Sport GmbH based on the A5 model range, positioned between the standard A5 and the flagship RS5. The S5 moniker first debuted in 2007, with the first-generation model powered by a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine. Having evolved across two subsequent generations, the nameplate now boasts nearly two decades of heritage.

In 2024, Audi streamlined and consolidated its A4 and A5 model lines, merging the former A4 family into the A5/S5 range. Currently on sale in the domestic market is the all-new third-generation Audi S5 (2025/2026 model year), imported and retailed as a fully imported (CBU) offering via Audi (Import). In terms of bodystyles, the new-generation S5 drops both Coupe and Cabriolet variants, soldiering on exclusively as a five-door fastback saloon (Sedan/Sportback). For reference, the previous-generation S5 was priced domestically from RM631,800.

Model Overview

The all-new Audi S5 is billed as a high-performance luxury executive four-door coupe, built around the core proposition of combining V6 turbo grunt, the formidable traction of the quattro all-wheel drive system, and the daily practicality of a four-door fastback. Built on Audi's new PPC (Premium Platform Combustion) architecture, the third-generation model sees a noticeable increase in overall dimensions and wheelbase over its predecessor.

On the pricing front, the 2025 Audi S5 kicks off from USD 59,195 (approx. RM420,000) in the United States, climbing to around USD 70,745 for the range-topping trim. In Taiwan, the all-new S5 Sedan retails from NTD 3,691,000 (approx. RM820,000). For Mainland China, the all-new generation S5 has been confirmed for launch as a CBU import. The 2026 model year update, meanwhile, commands a starting price of USD 63,300 in the US market.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the all-new Audi S5 dials up the aggression and road presence over the standard A5 range. The front end sports a wider, lower-slung hexagonal honeycomb Singleframe grille, adorned with a red 'S' badge to signal its performance credentials. The front bumper is flanked by prominent, blacked-out functional air curtains. In profile, it gains the S family's signature matte aluminium-look wing mirror caps alongside bespoke emblems on the B-pillars. Around the back, it upgrades to second-generation digital OLED tail lamps offering up to eight selectable light signatures, while the standard A5's single rectangular exhaust finishers make way for an aggressive quad-exit setup featuring dual round tailpipes on each side.

Inside, the cabin benefits from a comprehensive digital makeover. It features a sweeping curved panoramic housing combining an 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch MMI curved central touchscreen display, complemented by an optional 10.9-inch front passenger entertainment screen. The cabin is generously swathed in leather and Alcantara, accented with carbon-fibre trims. Drivers get a flat-bottom sports steering wheel with paddle shifters and heating functionality. The sports seats plus are upholstered in a Dinamica/leather combination with S-specific badging and diamond quilting, featuring pneumatic adjustments for lumbar and side bolsters with massage, heating, and ventilation functions. The 2026 model year also adds a 3D surround-view camera, heated steering wheel, and headrest-integrated speakers.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the bonnet, the third-generation Audi S5 is powered by the EA839 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine, co-developed with Porsche. The mill is paired with a 48V MHEV plus mild-hybrid system that delivers an additional 18 kW of electric boost and 25 kW of regenerative braking, integrating a permanent magnet synchronous motor capable of pure electric crawling. Total engine output stands at 367 PS (270 kW) and 550 Nm of torque. Power is routed through an S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The century sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is officially dispatched in 4.5 seconds, with overseas media tests recording times as quick as 4.3 seconds. Top speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h. By comparison, the previous-generation S5 featured a 3.0T V6 (349–354 PS) mated to an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.

Chassis and Handling

Underpinned by the new PPC combustion platform, the Audi S5 adopts a five-link independent suspension setup front and rear, fitted with S sport suspension that delivers a lower ride height and firmer spring and damper rates than the standard A5 for enhanced cornering composure. The car comes standard with the quattro all-wheel drive system featuring a sport differential. For this generation, the drivetrain transitions from the previous mechanical crown-gear centre differential to the quattro ultra intelligent on-demand all-wheel drive system. The system automatically switches between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive depending on road conditions, improving fuel economy while ensuring optimal wet-weather grip. Braking is handled by high-performance callipers paired with large ventilated discs. The car rides on standard 20-inch five-spoke dual-arm cut alloy wheels wrapped in 245/35 R20 tyres.

Cabin and Equipment

On the infotainment front, the all-new S5 features an updated MMI infotainment system with a cleaner, more intuitive user interface. Standard equipment includes the MMI upgrade package, bundling a head-up display (HUD), Bang & Olufsen 3D surround sound system, interactive dynamic ambient lighting, and high-output USB-C charging ports front and rear. Audiophile needs are met by the standard Bang & Olufsen premium sound system (15 channels, 16 speakers), with an optional 3D surround upgrade adding front seat headrest speakers. The front passenger screen supports independent Bluetooth connectivity, allowing individual media playback without driver distraction. Other standard highlights include tri-zone automatic climate control. In terms of luggage capacity, due to differences in chassis and suspension packaging, boot volume drops slightly from the standard A5's 445–1,299 litres to 417–1,271 litres.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Audi S5 delivers Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities in terms of active safety and driver assistance. The active safety suite encompasses: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring (with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert), and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Parking convenience is covered by a standard 360-degree surround-view camera and front and rear parking sensors. Passive safety is reinforced by a hybrid high-strength steel and aluminium alloy body construction, complemented by a comprehensive multi-airbag setup. The 2025 model also adds a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Driver Fatigue Detection as standard equipment.

Market Performance and Reception

The Audi S5 commands a distinctive niche within the global performance executive coupe segment. However, in the Chinese market, its commercial presence has remained modest, with industry analysts pointing to its niche market positioning, compromised rear passenger practicality, and steep price tag as primary factors. Automotive reviews have noted that the S5 sits at "RM100,000 dearer than the S4, yet lacks the distinctive character of the S4", whilst frequently being mistaken in the local market for merely a "modded A5". In addition, changes introduced on the new-generation model—such as the switch from permanent mechanical quattro to the on-demand quattro ultra system, and downsizing from front six-piston callipers to single-piston units—have also caused hesitation among some prospective buyers.

In the US market, the 2025 S5 earned an 8/10 rating from Car and Driver , praised for its "responsive powertrain, well-balanced ride and handling," though its interior design was noted as "lacking flashiness" and its steering "overly light, limiting driver engagement".

As a core backbone of Audi's performance stable, the Audi S5 continues to appeal to enthusiasts demanding both performance and understated sophistication, backed by the deep power reserves of the EA839 V6 engine, the all-weather confidence of the quattro AWD system, and the day-to-day usability of a four-door fastback.