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By
ALISTAIR KENNEDY
15 October 2007
Audi has launched the first model in its new A5/S5 range of
sporty two-door coupes, opening the lineup with the high-performance S5
model rather than the mainstream A5.
The A5 and S5 mark Audi’s first foray into the Australian
grand tourer market segment where it will compete against the BMW
3 Series Coupe and Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Audi S5 is powered by a 4.2-litre V8 engine that generates 260
kW of power at a high-revving 7000 rpm. Peak torque is an
impressive 440Nm at only 3500 revs. Based on these figures there’s
no reason to doubt Audi 's claimed zero to 100 km/h acceleration
figure of 5.1 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h.
Again in line with the likely preferences of the sporting
driver, S5 is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox. An
automatic version not due here until May 2008.
The A5/S5 uses Audi's new Modular Longitudinal Platform (MLP).
The biggest change with this platform is that the engine is
mounted behind the front axle to provide better balance and so
enhance the car’s handling.
We were fortunate enough to be able to test the S5 both on the
race track at Phillip Island and on an extended drive back to
Melbourne. Even before the driving experience begins there’s the
audible enjoyment of the distinctive burble that only a V8 can
provide.
One the open road S5 is superbly balanced and this, combined
with the reassurance of all-wheel drive, makes for a very safe car
to drive at speed. Steering is relatively heavy in the Audi manner
but, although precise, doesn’t provide as much feedback as we’d
like. The six-speed manual gearbox is a little notchy and the car
is, surprisingly, a little awkward to drive in and around the
city.
The styling of the new S5 follows cues given by the Audi
Nuvolari concept car first shown at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show and
subsequently at a number of Australian motor shows.
The S5 single-frame grille differs from that of the A5 by
having vertical chromed inlays and being painted in platinum grey.
Also, in line with its sportier image, the S5 has a stronger
styling to both front and rear bumpers, a more pronounced rear
spoiler and four oval tailpipes.
The interior of the Audi S5 is equally stylish. The front
sports seats are comfortable and supportive although, despite the
car’s generous length (4635 mm) and wheelbase (2751 mm), there
is limited legroom for rear seat occupants. But that’s not a
major issue in a car such as this.
As well as the release of the tiptronic S5, April and May 2008
will also see the release of the tiptronic version of the
3.2-litre A5 as well as the entry-level 1.8-litre petrol A5. The
range will be completed in August 2008 when a 3.0-litre turbo
diesel engine arrives.
The S5 uses Audi's all-wheel drive (quattro) setup for superior
traction in tight conditions. The 3.2-litre A5 will come with the
choice of front or all-wheel drive while the 1.8-litre A5 will be
the only variant not to be available with quattro.
The full Audi A5 and S5 range, with prices (excluding on-road
costs) and expected release dates is:
S5 4.2 FSI quattro 4.2-litre petrol manual : $131,900
A5 3.2 FSI multitronic: $91,900 (November 2007)
A5 3.2 FSI quattro tiptronic: $95,900 (April 2008)
S5 4.2 FSI quattro tiptronic: $134,900 (May 2008)
A5 1.8T FSI multitronic: approx. $70,000 (May 2008)
A5 3.0 TDI quattro tiptronic: approx. $100,000 (August 2008)
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Marque Publishing Company
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