The Audi S5 has come a long way in its nearly 20-year evolution — from a striking coupe with a naturally aspirated V8 to a high-tech grand tourer with a mild hybrid system. The model has repeatedly changed body styles, powertrains, and its place in the Audi lineup. In its third generation, the S5 has finally taken the niche of the former A4 and is now offered exclusively in more practical versions — sedan and wagon, while the coupe and convertible are a thing of the past.
The first Audi S5 debuted in 2007 with a 4.2-liter V8 and was initially available only as a coupe. Later, the Sportback and Convertible joined it, and then the naturally aspirated engine gave way to a 3.0-liter supercharged V6. The second generation, introduced in 2017, retained the variety of body styles but received a turbocharged V6 with a twin-scroll. These changes laid the foundation for the current version, which focuses on efficiency and versatility.
The 2026 Audi S5 is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged gasoline V6 and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. It includes an 18 kW electric motor and a 1.7 kWh battery. The combined output reaches 362 hp and 550 Nm, which is significantly higher than the previous generation. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 4.3 seconds according to tests, and the hybrid system actively participates in the movement even at low speeds, allowing the car to move briefly on electric power.
The exterior of the new S5 is designed in a smoother and more refined style compared to its predecessor. The car looks lighter and more modern, despite its impressive dimensions and weight of over 2 tons. The body design emphasizes the sporty character of the model, while maintaining a restrained elegance, thanks to which the S5 is perceived not as an aggressive sports sedan, but as a fast and comfortable car for long trips.
The interior is designed in the spirit of the latest Audi models and is built around three screens: a 11.9-inch digital instrument panel, a 14.5-inch central display of the multimedia system, and a separate 10.9-inch screen for the passenger. All displays are combined into a curved panel and feature high image quality. Standard equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the passenger screen is offered either as standard or as an option, depending on the version.
However, not all elements of the cabin make the expected premium impression. Glossy black plastic is widely used in the trim, which quickly collects fingerprints and visually cheapens the interior. The touch buttons on the steering wheel look impressive, but are not always convenient to use. At the same time, soft leather, Alcantara, and high-quality inserts on the panel and doors partially compensate for these controversial decisions.
On the road, the 2026 Audi S5 demonstrates one of the best handling balances in the model's history. Engineers managed to almost get rid of the understeer characteristic of all-wheel drive Audis. The car behaves neutrally, and when the grip limit is exceeded, the rear axle starts to slide first, which makes the reactions more predictable and "lively". A significant role in this is played by the Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires, which are installed as standard.
Despite an increase in weight of more than 200 kg compared to the previous generation, the S5 does not feel heavy. The suspension, even without adaptive dampers in the Edition One version, remains assembled and confidently copes with bumps. The seven-speed S tronic robotic gearbox works smoothly in normal modes, but during an active start with Launch Control, switching to second and third gears is accompanied by sharp jolts. Otherwise, the power plant and transmission provide a high level of dynamics and comfort in everyday use.