The History and Evolution of the Audi S5
The Audi S5 was first introduced to the world in 2007 and it continues to evolve from the high-performance variant of the brand’s A5 model. The majority of the S5s are manufactured at the Ingolstadt plant in Germany with the exception of the cabriolet versions made in Neckarsulm. In addition to the cabriolet, five-door fastback versions, saloon and estate, and coupe versions complete the family of cars in the line. The major difference between the ancestral A5 and the S5 is the chassis. The model has undergone an impressive evolution and we begin with its history to arrive at the current model that continues to inspire awe.
The first generation: 2007 Audi S5 through 2012
The 2007 S5 featured a two-door coupe styling and came out at the same time as the A5, but it had a beefier appearance which was an accurate indication of the extra engine power that it carried. The 4.2-liter V8 engine generated 354 horsepower with 349 lb-ft of torque and it was tested at a top speed of 155.3 mph. This was paired with a 6-speed automatic Triptonic transmission in an All Wheel Drive powertrain.
2012 S5 Coupe
The original coupe was aesthetically pleasing with a chrome finished exhaust, LED daytime running lights and a rear spoiler that was a redesign of the one that graced the A5. Generation one fulfilled its goal to give BMWs 335Ci a run for its money on the premium coupe platform. An earlier problem that occurred with the steering of the A/S4 was fixed by mounting the engine to the rear of the front axle. This was an innovative design move that resulted in excellent handling and enhanced performance thanks to the improved weight distribution. Evolution is all about improving.
2009 Audi S5 Sportback
In 2009, Audio announced the addition of the S5 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the same year. It was scheduled to go on sale to the public in early 2010. At the same time, the S5 3.0 TFSI Cabriolet was announced and concurrently released with the Sportback. Both models continued with production through 2016 with similar DNA and different body styles. They shared a 2,995cc supercharged V6 that produced 329 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque.
2009 Audi S5 Cabriolet
The S5 Coupe underwent a change in technology under the hood that would improve its fuel efficiency along with some front-end changes. It received a new set of headlights, a set of fog lamps and a new grill that was akin to the A6 model of the same year. A new rear diffuser gave it a higher degree of curb appeal as an exterior enhancement over previous model years.
Audi S5 Coupe 2012 – 2016
Audi S5 Coupe 2016 to current
Enhancements in aesthetics are performance were the hallmarks of this Audi line as the current generation of the S5 Coupe was given larger rims and side vents, an integrated air diffuser built into the rear bumper and a quad exhaust. Its sleeker appearance was definitely a noticeable aesthetical enhancement. The design team saw fit to lighten the car by 60 kg with the use of new materials that were lighter. A recalibration of the suspension improved performance to include greater precision in handling.
The engine remains the same with a few tweaks that increased the top speed to 155 mph and an acceleration rate of zero to 62 in just 4.7 seconds. The engine is matched with an 8-speed automatic Tiptronic transmission. The fuel economy for the later generation is rated at 24 mpg city, 40.6 highway and 32.2 combined. Loyals to the model are good with the cargo volume of 16.4 square feet, although it’s not spacious, every little bit helps.
Final thoughts
The Audi S5 has been around for more than a decade and it just keeps getting better. Loyals can tell you that the brand goes over and above in maintaining premium luxury standards while attending to the matters of power and aesthetic. With each new generation, the S5 supplies evidence of Audi’s commitment to excellence and delivery on performance.
