The basic conceptual form of the Sportback model first appeared in the form of the Audi A7. The A7, with its unique and innovative body style, instantly became one of my favorite Audis, alongside the Audi R8 V10 Spyder. It appealed to consumers in terms of both design and performance, while adding increased functionality.
WHAT’S NEW
Audi’s focus on the 5-passenger Sportback design is meant to appeal to a broader range of potential buyers. It offers some of the versatility of a sedan with the style of a more aggressive coupe. The S5 Sportback reflects the styling of the S5 coupe, but displays a new, extended and flowing roofline. It also delivers 0.4 inches more front headroom, 0.9 inches of additional rear headroom, and 2.4 inches more rear legroom. The S5 Sportback’s wheelbase is the same as that of the A4, but it sits 1.6 inches lower.
Its hatchback pays dividends in terms of cargo capacity. The Sportback offers up twice the space of the A5 coupe, yielding 21.8 cubic feet with the rear seats in the upright position, and 35 cubic feet with them folded flat. The A5 Sportback is attractive in its own right, while the S5 Sportback steps up with sportier design cues.
The Audi S5 Sportback starts at $54,400. This particular model, after options and desination charges, costs $63,975.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
The S5 Sportback visually is distinguishable from the A5 with its added rear lip spoiler, an S model –specific rear diffuser with a honeycomb structure, quad exhaust outlets with chrome tips, a S-model specific intake design and available red brake calipers.
The Audi S5 Sportback also adds S Sport suspension, three-spoke, flat-bottom, sport steering wheel, full LED headlamps, S sport seats with massage function, parking assist, heated front seats and a leather and Alcantara interior.
Technology is another strong suit of the S5 Sportback. It uses Audi’s signature MMI infotainment system with handwriting recognition. The system also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as 4G LTE connectivity. There’s also a suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, stop-and-go traffic assist, and automatic pre-collision braking support.
The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback model reflects the coupe’s innovative styling language. It leads off with a wider, flatter Singleframe grille, along with longer, lower hood lines. Rear horizontal design lines are joined by slim, sculptural three-dimensional LED taillights, and display a distinctly powerful look, emphasizing the vehicle’s width. Extra costs included a Navigation package, the S Sport Package, Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D sound, 19 inch wheels and destination charges. All in all, the final tally stands at $63,975.
PERFORMANCE
The Audi S5 Sportback makes its power from a 354 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 with 369 lb-ft of torque. According to official figures, it sprints from 0-60 MPH in 4.5 seconds. Along the way, it shifts through an 8-speed automatic transmission, to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 MPH.
An available S Sport package provides Sport adaptive damping suspension, a Quattro sport differential, available dynamic steering and large, six-piston brake calipers.
The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback delivers a remarkable driving experience. The A5 version is certainly more than simply adequate, but the S5 example is superior in terms of performance traits, sportier appearance, as well as ride and handling characteristics. The S Sport package enhances throttle mapping, shift points, sweetens the exhaust note and stops on a dime while giving change. Audi has enhanced the steering feel in the S5 Sportback as well.
The car hugs the road and stays flat during most spirited maneuvers, covering twisting back mountain roads with finesse.
TFLCAR’S TAKE
This new Audi S5 Sportback is comprises a nice balance between performance and practicality. It’s visually appealing, and safety features abound. The size may well prove to be more appropriate for many consumers than the A7. To see how the S5 performs, check out Roman’s review of the S5 below:
SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Audi S5 Sportback 3.0T Quattro Tiptronic
| On Sale: | Now |
| Base MSRP: | $55,400. |
| Price as Tested: |
$63,975. |
| Engine: | 3.0 TFSI Turbocharged V6. |
| Drivetrain (Layout): | Longitudinally mounted front engine, all-wheel drive |
| Horsepower: | 354 hp @ 1,600 – 4,500 RPM |
| Torque: | 369 lb-ft @ 1,370 – 4,500 RPM |
| Transmission: | 8-speed tiptronic automatic w/ sport mode |
| Suspension: | Front and Rear: Five-link independent steel spring. |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted four-wheel ventilated discs. |
| Tires: | Continental ContiSportContact P255/35 R19 |
| Fuel capacity: | 15.3 gallons |
| Fuel economy (EPA): | 21 City/30 Highway |
Dimensions:
| Wheelbase: | 111.2 inches |
| Length: | 187.1 inches |
| Width: | 79.9 inches (including mirrors) |
| Height: | 54.5 inches |
| Turning Circle: | 38.4 feet |
| Curb Weight: | 3,924 pounds |
