Audi S5 2012 Review

Arguably the best looker in Audi's inventory, the S5 Coupe is a bit of a sleeper in the range because there's such a wide choice of appealing models. There's also the question of the price at $135,900 plus options that could add a lot more to the bottom line.

The S5 Coupe is one of about 15 A5 variants that include a bunch of four door sportbacks (four door coupes), cabriolets and two door coupes. Audi doesn't really have a direct competitor for its `5' range of cars and they are carving a tidy niche with buyers wanting more style than the average Audi.

UNDER THE BONNET

It has recently scored the generic 3.0-litre, supercharged, petrol V6 engine featured in a number of other Audis and also gains a seven speed, dual clutch, S-tronic manumatic transmission.

The direct injection engine passes EU5 emissions regs and is good for 245kW/440Nm output while sipping fuel at an impressively low 8.1-litres/100km. That's despite being capable of putting away a 0-100kmh sprint in 5.8 seconds.

Power goes to all four wheels via Audi's quattro drive and it rolls on meaty 18-inch rubber with chunky five spoke alloys. Regenerative braking aids engine efficiency as does switchable engine stop/start which we found a little tardy on the start-up.

INSIDE

The car is superbly equipped and beautifully styled inside complete with multiple fascia materials and two tone Nappa leather sports seats. The audio is brilliant and the multi media interface system with navigation is handy and easy to use.

Drive select offers a number of dynamic choices including comfort, auto and...dynamic. It has a push button start with proximity key and a driver information system.

ON THE ROAD

Performance is never lacking thanks to the torquey V6 capably harnessed by that slick- shifting dual-clutch transmission. It has a delightful exhaust pop on upchanges and fairly hammers off the line right up to high speed. Mid range roll on is strident and it even sounds good for a V6. We set the Drive Select to auto which covered all bases. A stint in Dynamic proved wearing after the corners were done.

We really like the S5's steering which offers super quick response at low speed and plenty of feel. The brakes are sensitive and take some getting used to. left foot braking is not recommended because it shuts down the engine. It's no lightweight at 1675kg  but can easily transport four adults and their luggage in GT luxury style.

VERDICT

Loved driving this car because it's such a handsome beast that goes so well. Access to the rear seats is relatively easy and you are cocooned in luxury that even smells good. It rampages along when you dial it up and can behave like a luxury cruiser at the other end of the spectrum. Fuel economy is impressive for a big-ish car with this amount of performance.

Audi S5 Coupe 3.0 TFSi

Price: $135,900
Warranty: 3 years roadside
Safety Equipment: seven airbags, ABS, EBD, EBA, TC.
Crash rating: N/A
Engine: 245kW/400Nm, V6, 3.0 Litre petrol
Body: 2 Door Coupe
Dimensions: 4640mm (L); 1854mm (W); 1369mm (H); 2751mm (WB)
Weight: 1675kg
Transmission: Sports Automatic Dual Clutch, Four Wheel Drive
Economy: 8.1 / 100Km, 190g/km CO2