2018 AUDI A5/S5 FIRST LOOK

2018 AUDI A5/S5 FIRST LOOK BY AUTO CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

On the heels of the redesigned A4 sedan are the next-generation 2018 Audi A5 Coupe and its higher-performing S5 variant.

With a reimagining of the power dome and wave-design shoulder line, the new coupe features a wider and lower stance to enhance its athletic appeal.  That sporty character is matched by two new turbocharged engines: a 252 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder for the A5 and a 354-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 in the S5.

The A5 can be specified with either a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual, the latter coupled with quattro with ultra technology; a new take on Audi’s famed all-wheel drive system utilizing a disconnecting rear axle to improve fuel efficiency when road conditions allow.

All other A5 and S5 models continue with the standard quattro setup biased 60% to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions.  Audi drive select is standard with 4 selectable modes affecting various drivetrain and chassis characteristics.  An optional sport suspension on the A5 lowers the ride height and uses upgraded components while a more sophisticated adaptive damping suspension can be selected and is geared for increased comfort on the A5 and uprated sport on the S5.

The S5 is also offered with speed dependent variable ratio steering to improve feel. The S5’s transmission is an 8-speed automatic which can be paired with the optional S sport package to provide a more dynamic quattro experience with torque vectoring across the rear axle to further cornering performance when exiting a turn.

Audi claims a 0-to-60mph time as quick as 5.6 seconds for the A5 and 4.4 seconds for the S5.  These cars are the latest to receive Audi’s ultra-modern virtual cockpit with an over 12” display and driver assistance features such as Audi pre sense city, a collision avoidance system with full auto brake at speeds up to 52mph.

Available Adaptive Cruise Control  with stop & go and traffic jam assist combines acceleration, braking and steering guidance up to speeds of 40mph to reduce driver stress.  Pricing will likely start in the mid-$40k.