2027 Audi A5 vs. S5: Price, Specs & Performance

While there are quite a few differences between these two models, the focus on performance is the most important of all of them. The 2.0-liter engine that comes with the A5 is potent, producing a 5.6-second 0-60 time, which puts it at the quicker end of the spectrum of compact sedans. But Audi put a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 under the hood of the S5, shaving more than a second off that already impressive 0-60 time, and it’s a difference you can feel behind the wheel.  Both cars come with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, designed to deliver the quickest gear changes of any transmission type in existence, a technology that comes straight from the world of endurance racing. Also coming from the world of motorsports is quattro® all-wheel drive, which is standard for both models, and gives you a major traction advantage, whether on the racetrack or in deep snow.

No performance car is complete without a good set of brakes, and Audi put 13.3-inch front rotors and 13-inch rear rotors on the A5. That’s some impressive stopping power, but Audi recognized the need for an upgrade with the extra power in the S5, so there you’ll find 14.2-inch front rotors and 13.8-inch rear rotors. The A5 comes standard with comfort-tuned suspension, but sport suspension is also available. For that extra bit of performance edge, the S5 comes with adaptive sport suspension, giving it the ability to constantly adjust to changing conditions.

Since the S5 is based on the A5, the styling is obviously very similar, but look at the details, and and there are many cues that hint at the additional performance the S5 brings to the table. There are distinct front fascias, particularly the grille design. The S5 also has a twin-tipped exhaust, bigger 19-inch wheels, and a different set of side mirror caps. Most of the paint color options are the same, but Horizon Blue metallic, Florett Silver metallic, and Chronos Gray metallic are all specific to the A5, while only the S5 has the option of Ascari Blue metallic.

The interior is a very similar story to the exterior, with a design that’s largely similar, but with some details adapted for sportier driving than the luxury focus of the A5. For example, the S5 comes with sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and sport pedals - all things missing from the A5.  But the similarities are important too, with both cars offering the same excellent infotainment features, standard leather upholstery, and an available panoramic glass roof. And while these features might not set the A5 and S5 apart from one another, they do set them apart from the competition.

* Price excludes $1,295 destination, taxes, title, other options and dealer changes. Dealer sets actual price.