Audi S5 Sportback: Price, Specs, and Standout Features

The Audi S5 Sportback blends the sleek silhouette of a coupe with the practicality of a five‑door hatch. Whether you’re eyeing it for daily commuting or weekend thrills, the model promises a mix of performance, tech, and premium touches that feel distinctly German. Below, we break down what you can expect to pay, the engine and chassis numbers that matter, and the cabin and driver‑assist features that set it apart.

What Does the Audi S5 Sportback Cost?

In the United States, the base 2024 Audi S5 Sportback starts around $61,000 before options and destination fees. Adding a performance package—usually a $1,200 upgrade—pushes the sticker toward $63,000. Destination and handling charges run roughly $1,200, so the out‑the‑door price hovers in the $64,000 to $70,000 range depending on trim selections.

If you opt for the optional Cold Weather or Technology packages, expect an extra $1,500‑$2,000. Those bundles typically add heated rear seats, a head‑up display, and an upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system. For buyers in Europe or Asia, local taxes and import duties can shift the price upward by 10‑20 percent, but the core MSRP stays anchored to the same global platform.

Key Specifications at a Glance

• Engine: 3.0‑liter turbocharged V6 delivering 349 hp and 369 lb‑ft of torque.
• Transmission: Eight‑speed Tiptronic® automatic with paddle shifters.
• Drivetrain: Quattro® permanent all‑wheel drive.
• 0‑60 mph: Approximately 4.4 seconds.
• Top Speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph (199 km/h).
• Fuel Economy: EPA estimates around 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
• Curb Weight: Roughly 4,050 lb, depending on options.
• Dimensions: 4,777 mm length, 1,877 mm width, 1,371 mm height; 2,790 mm wheelbase.

These figures place the S5 Sportback squarely between the traditional S4 sedan and the outright performance‑focused RS5 coupe. The turbo V6 revs to 6,800 rpm, and the quattro system distributes power with a rear‑bias that can be tweaked via the drive‑select knob for a more dynamic rear‑wheel‑drive feel.

Feature Highlights Inside and Out

Inside, Audi leans heavily on digital interfaces. The Virtual Cockpit displays a 12.3‑inch instrument cluster that can be customized for navigation, performance data, or media. Below it, the MMI® Touch screen—also 10.1 inches—offers crisp graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration.

Comfort‑oriented touches include leather‑wrapped sport seats with four‑way power adjustment, optional ventilated fronts, and a heated steering wheel. Ambient lighting runs in twelve colors, letting you set a mood that matches the road.

Safety and driver assistance get a boost from the optional Driver Assistance Package. It bundles adaptive cruise control with stop‑and‑go, lane‑keeping assist, and a traffic jam assist that can handle low‑speed highway traffic on its own. A top‑view camera system provides a 360‑degree perspective, making parking in tight city spots less stressful.

Exterior cues echo the S5’s sport pedigree: a more aggressive front bumper, a subtle rear diffuser, and a quad‑exhaust layout that hints at the power underneath. The standard 20‑inch wheels are available in a range of finishes, while an optional 21‑inch design adds a more pronounced stance without sacrificing ride quality thanks to the adaptive damping system.

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

When you line the S5 Sportback up against the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe and the Mercedes‑C43 Coupe, a few differences become clear. The BMW typically starts a few thousand dollars lower but offers a slightly tighter chassis feel, while the Mercedes leans into a more luxurious rear‑seat experience. The Audi, however, balances those extremes with its quattro system—giving it a confidence boost in rain or snow that the rear‑biased BMW can’t match.

Performance‑wise, the S5’s 349 hp sits ahead of the 4 Series’ 382‑hp turbo‑four in real‑world acceleration because the quattro’s traction advantage translates to quicker launches. Meanwhile, the C43’s 385 hp V6 feels comparable, but its rear‑wheel‑drive layout can be trickier on slippery pavement. In terms of technology, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit often wins the subjective “wow” factor, though BMW’s iDrive remains a close rival.

Ultimately, the decision may come down to personal taste: whether you prioritize the S5’s all‑weather grip, BMW’s sharper handling, or Mercedes’ plush rear‑seat ambiance. The S5 Sportback tries to be the best of all three worlds—a sporty engine, all‑wheel drive confidence, and a cabin that feels both driver‑focused and family‑friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Audi S5 Sportback eligible for any federal tax credits?

A: In the U.S., the S5 Sportback is powered by a conventional gasoline engine, so it doesn’t qualify for federal EV incentives. Some states offer rebates for low‑emission vehicles, but those programs vary widely.

Q: How does the fuel economy of the S5 Sportback compare to the S4 sedan?

A: Both share the same 3.0‑liter turbo V6, but the Sportback’s slightly heavier curb weight and hatchback aerodynamics typically result in about 1‑2 mpg lower EPA ratings than the S4 sedan.

Q: Can I get a manual transmission for the S5 Sportback?

A: Audi discontinued the manual option for the S5 line in recent years. The eight‑speed Tiptronic® remains the sole transmission choice, offering both smooth automatic shifts and paddle‑shifted manual control.

Q: What warranty coverage does Audi provide for the S5 Sportback?

A: New‑car coverage includes a four‑year/50,000‑mile limited warranty, plus a four‑year/50,000‑mile powertrain warranty and roadside assistance. Certified‑pre‑owned models may carry extended coverage depending on dealer programs.