2016 Audi S5 Sportback: 349 BHP Luxury Performance Hatch

The 2016 Audi S5 Sportback emerges as a standout in the premium performance segment, merging the sleek silhouette of a coupe with the versatility of five doors. Powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering 349 horsepower, it offers brisk acceleration, composed handling via quattro all-wheel drive, and a cabin brimming with high-end materials. This model appeals to enthusiasts craving daily usability without sacrificing excitement.

Striking Exterior Design and Aerodynamics

Audi’s design team crafted the S5 Sportback with aggressive yet elegant lines that distinguish it from milder A5 variants. The wider front grille and matrix LED headlights create an imposing face, complemented by a sculpted bonnet that flows into sharp side profiles. Lowered suspension and 19-inch alloy wheels give it a planted stance, while quad exhaust tips at the rear underscore its sporty intent.

Compared to predecessors, the 2016 facelift introduces subtle enhancements like revised bumpers for a more muscular appearance. This design not only turns heads but aids aerodynamics, contributing to stable high-speed behavior and improved efficiency. The five-door layout maintains the coupe-like roofline while providing practical access for rear passengers.

Luxurious and Tech-Rich Interior

Step inside the S5 Sportback, and you’re enveloped in a sanctuary of refinement. Fine Nappa leather upholstery and ‘S’ supersports seats offer exceptional support for long journeys, with options for Alcantara accents and memory functions. Every surface exudes quality, from soft-touch dash materials to ambient lighting that sets the mood.

Standard features include the MMI navigation system with Audi Connect subscription, delivering seamless connectivity. The optional Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, at a modest extra cost, revolutionizes driver information with customizable 12.3-inch displays. Rear seats accommodate adults comfortably, a rarity in this class, enhancing family-friendly appeal.

• Key interior highlights:
• Nappa leather and sports seats with lumbar adjustment
• MMI infotainment with touchpad control
• Virtual Cockpit for immersive driving data
• Generous rear legroom and boot space

Potent Powertrain and Transmission

At the heart lies a 3.0-liter supercharged TFSI V6, now boosted to 349bhp and 500Nm of torque—gains of 21bhp and 60Nm over the prior model. Peak torque arrives early at 1,370rpm, ensuring punchy response across the rev range. Mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, gear shifts are swift and smooth, outperforming expectations for a torque-converter unit.

Quattro all-wheel drive distributes power intelligently, with an optional sport differential enhancing cornering agility by vectoring torque rearward. Acceleration from 0-60mph clocks around 4.9 seconds in related variants, making it fiercely quick for overtakes and spirited drives.

Dynamic Driving Experience

On the road, the S5 Sportback balances grand tourer comfort with sports car poise. The chassis communicates effectively through precise, weighted steering that’s communicative in Dynamic mode. Adaptive dampers (optional) provide fluid ride quality over varied surfaces, absorbing bumps without feeling floaty.

Quattro grip shines in wet or snowy conditions, eliminating the need for winter storage. Braking is confident, with strong stoppers hauling the car down from high speeds repeatedly without fade—70-0mph in 158 feet for cabrio kin. While not the most engaging in outright handling versus rear-drive rivals, its predictability and speed make it endlessly rewarding.

Efficiency and Running Costs

Despite its performance, the S5 achieves 37.7mpg combined (NEDC), up from 35.8mpg, with CO2 at 170g/km. This trims road tax slightly and avoids diesel BiK penalties, appealing to company drivers. Real-world figures hover around 24-28mpg in mixed use, respectable for the power.

Owners praise its low maintenance and reliability, bolstered by Audi’s warranty. Resale holds strong due to desirability, though premiums apply for low-mileage examples.

Safety and Everyday Practicality

Safety is robust with five-star Euro NCAP ratings inferred from A5 platform, featuring multiple airbags, stability control, and pre-sense systems. The 480-liter boot expands via folding seats, ideal for weekend getaways. All-wheel drive ensures year-round usability, even in snowbelts.

Rivals Comparison

The S5 Sportback faces competition from BMW M4 Gran Coupe and Mercedes C63 AMG, but carves a niche with its liftback practicality and refinement.

Cheaper S4 offers similar pace with better economy; pricier Germans provide rawer thrills but less subtlety.

Ownership Verdict

For those prioritizing style, luxury, and all-weather performance, the 2016 S5 Sportback excels. It’s not the track weapon but a superb daily driver with supercar pace. Well-equipped from launch, it remains a smart used buy today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2016 Audi S5 Sportback reliable?

Yes, it benefits from Audi’s solid engineering, with few major issues reported. Regular servicing keeps it dependable.

How practical is the boot space?

480 liters standard, expanding to 1,300 liters—ample for luggage or gear.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Official 37.7mpg; real-world 25-30mpg depending on driving style.

Does it have adaptive suspension?

Optional; enhances ride versatility across modes.

Is quattro worth it?

Absolutely for superior traction and handling in all conditions.