2012 Audi S5 Coupe, Cabriolet and Sportback
The A5 family’s sport models – the S5 as Sportback, Coupé and Cabriolet – are strong and speedy sport cars for everyday driving which sacrifice nothing in terms of practicality. They have also been overhauled. The most prominent changes are the wedge-shaped headlights, the hexagonal single-frame grille, the LED rear lights and the modified front and rear bumpers.
Eye-catching details distinguish the S5 models from their A5 counterparts. Such details include the radiator grille’s platinum-gray insert with sophisticated horizontal chrome struts, the honeycomb grilles in the air inlets with dual chrome trim and angular fog lights, the lower air inlet’s dimensions, the exterior mirror housings in aluminum look, and the sill moldings painted the same color as the body.
At the tail end, a diffuser insert with a blade in aluminum look and the dual-branch exhaust system with four elliptical tailpipe trims are all easy on the eyes. A spoiler is atop the S5 Sportback’s trunk lid, whereas the Coupé integrates its spoiler into the lid. Two paint finishes are reserved exclusively for S models: Estoril Blue, crystal effect and Prism Silver, crystal effect. The single-frame grille bears an S5 logo and V6 T badges adorn the sides.
S models are 14 (Coupé and Cabriolet) or 6 millimeters (0.55 or 0.24 in) longer, respectively, than their A5 counterparts. The S5 Coupé and the S5 Cabriolet are 4.64 meters (15.22 ft) in length and the S5 Sportback measures 4.72 meters (15.49 ft).
Refined changes: interior
The interior likewise exhibits minor modifications. The leather multifunction sport steering wheel bearing an S5 logo – with a flat-bottomed rim upon request – is new. The instruments have gray gauges and white needles with hubs in aluminum look. When the vehicle starts up, the MMI screen will display a special greeting; the key features an S5 badge.
2012 Audi S5 Sportback
Brushed aluminum is used for the inlays. Optional inlays include Carbon Atlas, fine grain birch wood gray, stainless steel mesh or piano finish; in the latter two cases, the fascia in the instrument panel also shines thanks to a piano finish. The door sill trims bear S5 logos and the standard shift paddles feature an aluminum look.
The interior is dominated by a sporty black. Headlining in the S5 Coupé and S5 Sportback is lunar silver; an option for the S5 Cabriolet is star silver headlining. The standard sport seats feature an Alcantara/leather combination. The front center armrest as well as electrically adjustable and heated front seats are standard equipment.
Audi also optionally offers Fine Nappa leather for the electrically adjustable S sport seats with integrated head restraints and an embossed S5 logo. A further alternative consists of climate-controlled comfort seats covered with perforated Milano leather. Heat protection is standard for the Cabriolet. The lights package for the interior, the xenon plus headlights, the driver information system with color display, and an acoustic roof (for the Cabriolet) round out the S models’ special standard-equipment package.
For all three S models: 3.0 TFSI
A 3.0 TFSI engine with 245 kW (333 hp) now powers every version of the S5 line, including the Coupé. Compared to the 4.2-liter V8 which it has replaced, this supercharged V6 requires 20 percent less fuel on average. It consumes just 8.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (29.04 US mpg) while delivering solid driving performance. The S5 Coupé sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.9 seconds and goes on to reach an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).
The engine also provides imposing torque. The 3.0 TFSI steadily transmits 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. Audi has put some more pep into the V6’s sound – it now roars even more powerfully under load.
The S5 Sportback requires just 5.1 seconds to cover zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and averages 8.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (29.04 US mpg). Data for the S5 Cabriolet are 5.4 seconds and 8.5 l/100km (27.67 US mpg). A seven-speed S tronic is standard for all three S models. It distributes the engine’s power to the quattro drivetrain with a self-locking center differential in conjunction with torque vectoring; a sport differential is available here.
An additional innovation in the S5 family is electromechanical power steering, which can optionally be combined with Audi dynamic steering. The optional Audi drive select system makes driving an even more versatile and fascinating experience. The tightly tuned S sport suspension is also aided by electronically controlled shock absorbers.
The S models’ standard 18-inch cast aluminum wheels in a five parallel-spoke design are fitted with 245/40 tires. Audi alternatively offers 19-inch and 20-inch wheels fitted with tires as large as 265/30. Black brake calipers, bearing S5 emblems at the front, encircle the four large internally ventilated disc brakes.
