2008 Audi S5 Coupe 4.2 Quattro

By: Juan G. Robbin

A brand new coupé with sumptuous curves, great street presence and oh, what an interior!
Audi S5 Coupé 4.2 quattro (2008)

Just introduced, the S5 is the sports version of the all-new A5 coupé by Audi. Intently focused on going after the ubiquitously popular BMW 3 Series, Audi is definitely a serious contender in this highly contested segment.
The front grille and bumper has the typical current Audi corporate look with a hint of the R8 super-car thrown in. There is the swooping side window frame arch that ends at the C pillar in a stylish manner without having to copy BMW’s well known Hoffmeister kink. (BMW’s signature rear-side window curve used in all BMW’s and is affectionately called the Hoffmeister kink after BMW’s lead designer in the 1960’s) The look of brakes, tail lights, exhaust tips placement and elegant wheels create a harmonious blend that make the S5 a pleasure to drive as well as to look at.

Inside you are ensconced in Alcantara and leather sports seats that feel just as they should, supportive yet comfortable. Rear seating is typical of most coupés, usable but snug. Appointments, switches and general layout of the dash are not only finely finished but also well thought out in placement. There are modern looking carbon fiber decorative inlays throughout the dash, giving the S5 interior an even more sporty appearance. We did notice the volume control is to the right of the gear shifter, an awkward place to put it, as I caught myself going for the knob on the left of the multi-function display thinking it’s the volume knob every time. You can start the S5 by putting the key fob in the slot and pressing it or simply using the round start button. Doing so gives you a thrill each time the car starts and comes to life by showing sweeps of the tachometer & speedometer as well as a satisfying baritone engine sound.

Audi is known for its legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive-technology and the S5 didn’t disappoint in its handling abilities. The overall feel is one of sure footedness as well as performance. Acceleration is direct and brisk, accompanied by the sweet exhaust sound that one can’t seem to get enough of. Handling is similar to other Audi models, that is to say, offering exquisite cornering and braking during any driving situation.
The integrated navigation system, Audi calls it MMI, can be a bit cantankerous to figure out without the manual. We like to resort to this practice only as a last resort, and this time we were stumped. We could not get to the average MPG screen, so we had to use the manual. Of course, it was easy to find afterwards.

We had the privilege of driving the S5 for one week and just under 300 miles and came away not wanting to give the keys back. Audi seems to have gotten the formula spot-on in feel and performance that exudes quality in a car that truly a delight to drive.

The Audi S5, a sensational coupé!

The Essentials

• MSRP: $50,500.00 MSRP (As Tested): $58,015.00
• Fuel Economy: (Observed): 17.5 MPG
• Engine: V8, 4.2 liter, 354 HP
• Popular Options: Bang & Olufsen sound system, Audi Navigation Plus, Technology package, Carbon Atlas decorative inlays.
• Visit: www.audi.com