Audi S5 10
I have test-driven the BMW 335i, which is pretty much, in my opinion, the main “tough guy” to the Audi S5. I have always been a BMW-nut due to its awesome performance and dynamics, but I am also pretty liberal to the other manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Lexus, and, of course, Audi; so, about a couple of months ago, I went down to Escondido, California, to check out a couple of S5’s for myself. The “test car” that I have checked out was a black 2010 Audi S5 with the 6-speed Tiptronic automatic-transmission. The front of the S5 has a very stream-lined look with LED daytime running lights, which turn off when you signal, and turn back on when your blinkers are off, as well as LED taillights in the rear. Would BMW's 335i catch up to this new kid on the block?
The S5 test car came with the Prestige Package, which includes the keyless entry where you just leave your key in your pocket, and the doors automatically unlock when you approach the car by about 200 feet. The Push-Start button also comes with the Prestige Package, along with a standard GPS navigation system with backup camera, Audi-MMI Interface for Bluetooth and iPod, Real-Time traffic and weather, as well as Sirius Satellite Radio complementary for 90 days. Since I am used to BMW’s iDrive system, Audi’s MMI system is pretty similar in terms of hands-free technology; however, it is a bit worse as far as user-friendliness goes, and there are way too many buttons laying on the center console.
Performance is outrageous in this car. The 6-speed Tiptronic transmission shifts very smoothly, and acceleration is stupendous. With its hefty 4.2 liter V8 that produces 354 horsepower, and 325 lb-ft. of torque, the S5 stomps the clock to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, and the ¼ mile is aimed at 13.3 seconds; so the question now is, who would want to get a hold of a 335, and still pay an extra $3 grand for their xDrive technology, when in the Audi S5, the all-wheel-drive is already included? Audi’s “Quattro” system puts the power to all four wheels, and the traction is marvelous, when it comes to the inclement weather. I was also amazed by the S5’s massive braking power thanks to the ventilated disc brakes in the front, and solid brakes in the rear with standard ABS. Can you expect all of this safety in a 335 or even a C350 Mercedes-Benz? My guess would probably be “no.”
The S5 was a blast to drive, especially on the highway, so I could not think of any shocking things to say about this car. Fuel economy is all right for a car like this, but hey, it’s an Audi; 91 octane is required for this car as well as 100% synthetic oil. I would not really recommend this car for daily Monday-Friday commuting, but if you are into this kind of stuff, be my guest.
