Test Drive with Kyle Ashby

2013 Audi S5 Coupe Quattro S tronic

Audi has stated that the S5 Coupe has the same pace, yet more grace, with its renewed look for 2013, added technology, and a supercharged V6.

The 3.0L TFS engine is putting out 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque through a supercharged V6 with FSI direct injection. The seven speed S tronic transmission with sport and manual shift modes and Quattro permanent all wheel drive, really keeps the stock 18” five spoke wheels on the road and looking good. This engine and transmission combination can really perform and get a combined 21 MPGs with 18 city MPGs and 28 highway MPGs. The overall exterior design of the S5 is so sporty and sleek it deserves a second look from gawkers and sports car fanatics, alike.

With matching S Sport Alcantara leather and twelve-way heated seats that wrap around and hold the front seat occupants securely and comfortably, Audi has done a great job providing comfort and safety to the driver and passenger. While the car maneuvers tight corners and long stretches of roads, this two door coupe packs a lot of power.

Thanks to Audi and Automotive Media Solutions (AMS), the S5 that was loaned to me for a week is an upgraded version of the S5. The Prestige Ibis white with the black leather interior package comes with Audi’s adaptive light, side assist and advanced key options. The Fine Nappa leather upholstery upgrade, Carbon Atlas inlays, 15 speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and Audi MMI Navigation Plus with Google Earth is part of the enhanced Prestige package. I’m always a fan of connecting my phone through Bluetooth for a voice activated hands free solution as well as having the option to listen to SiriusXM satellite radio or other satellite radio solutions like Pandora or Slacker through the same Bluetooth connection.

Audi’s Prestige package also comes with Driver Assist, complete with adaptive cruise control, drive select controls and dynamic steering. With a button from the center console, the driver can fine tune the characteristics of the engine, transmission, steering, shock absorbers and sport differential technical components to suit personal preferences or driving scenarios. The preset preferences include a comfort, auto and dynamic setting. There is a fourth option that allows the driver to individualize all these characteristics for memory according to their own preferences.

Logan Canyon is one of many canyons in Utah known for its abundant slow and winding curves. I put the dynamic setting to test several times during my test drive. The dynamic setting will stiffen the shocks and steering, adjust the responsiveness of the gas pedal and change the differential and transmission for a very quick, sporty and fast driving experience. Let’s just say the Audi S5 was not challenged while testing the rigid and sometimes non-forgiving turns throughout Logan Canyon. It made for an awesome Saturday morning drive while avoiding my weekend chore list.

Driving the Audi S5 was a unique driving experience I could definitely get used to.

Visit an Audi dealer and ask them about a similar driving experience.

Base MSRP: $52,300
Price as Driven: $66,895