2009 Audi S5

The luxury coupe market has not always been Audi's bag. Most associate the German mark with solid, reliable sports sedan. But as competitors expand their model lineup to fit what seems like every possible niche, Audi has increasingly begun to keep pace with the launch of several two-door models - not least as Audi S5.

True to Audi nomenclature, the S5 is the performance version of the A5 Coupe. That means a larger engine, more horses and a stiffer suspension. The outer set out from his more mild-mannered Sibling of a chrome-trimmed grille, quad tailpipe and more robust bumpers. The resulting package is refined yet athletic, with luxury appointments, providing comfort matched with a powertrain that will not disappoint.

Current Audi S5

Audi S5 sports coupe debuted in the 2008 model year. Beneath its sleek sculpted hood is a 4.2-liter direct-injection V8 engine that produces 354 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. This single trim level is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard. In our tests, manual S5 produced a 0-60-mph time of 4.9 seconds.

Audi S5 platform is largely based on the S4, its four-door counterpart. But the two-door offers trail tier enhancements, such as a longer wheelbase and a new lightweight, aluminum front suspension - changes that are slated to be included in the next version of the sedan. The front end styling takes cues from midengine R8 sports car, while the rest of the exterior design comes from the Nuvolari, an Audi concept that made the auto show circuit rounds in 2003.

Audi S5 is equipped with many standard safety features, such as anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control. Front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags also come standard. Many luxury-oriented features are also standard. Major options include keyless ignition / entry, a navigation system and a premium audio system.

Inside the cabin, the four-seat Audi S5 is appointed with sophisticated detail, as finely stitched leather and real aluminum trim. The front sport seats offer plenty of space and support, although legroom could be better in the rear. Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) controls the audio, climate and optional navigation systems, and unlike some multifunction controls are relatively easy to figure out. And even if it S5 has the spirit of a sports car, it is still practical enough for everyday life - luggage compartment offers a full 16 Cubic holds, and rear Flips down to make even more space.

In our tests, we found the Audi S5 sports coupe to be an excellent Grand Tour. Steering equipment feels crisp and the suspension, though not adjustable, is firm without being gut-busting. Brakes may seem a little touchy at first, but with practice, they feel sympathetic and business. Thanks to Quattro, the S5 offers excellent traction in all conditions, which makes it an ideal choice for buyers living in colder climes. Power is normally distributed 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear, and this helps give S5 handling characteristics similar to a rear-wheel car.