The Audi S5 Sportback has long been considered a sweet spot in the Audi lineup, offering a compelling mix of performance, luxury, and everyday usability. While the higher-performance RS5 Sportback exists, spending a week with the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback raises the question: is more really necessary? For many, the answer is a resounding no.
Performance and Driving Dynamics of the 2020 Audi S5
Under the hood, the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback boasts a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 349 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This engine provides ample power for spirited driving and comfortable cruising. Coupled with Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, the S5 Sportback accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
While the RS5 Sportback is undeniably quicker, achieving 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds, this difference becomes negligible in real-world driving scenarios. Unless you frequently find yourself on a racetrack, the 0.7-second gap is unlikely to be a significant factor. Furthermore, some critics argue that the RS5, while incredibly capable, can feel somewhat sterile. The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback, in contrast, strikes a more balanced approach, offering engaging performance without sacrificing daily driving comfort. It occupies a similar position in the Audi hierarchy as the Mercedes-AMG C43 does relative to the C63, providing a compelling blend of sportiness and refinement.
The 3.0-liter V6 engine in the 2020 Audi S5 is praised for its responsiveness and smooth power delivery. The twin-scroll turbocharger ensures minimal lag, providing boost readily when needed. Even with enthusiastic driving, fuel economy remains respectable. During testing, reviewers achieved 23 miles per gallon in combined driving conditions, matching the EPA estimate.
For enhanced handling, the S Sport Package, available on the Prestige trim, adds significant value. This package includes a stiffer suspension with adaptive dampers, which manages to improve cornering without compromising ride comfort on rough roads. The sport rear differential, featuring torque vectoring, further enhances agility, particularly in tighter corners. While the S5 Sportback remains inherently all-wheel drive in feel, the rear-biased Quattro system and sport differential contribute to a more dynamic driving experience. For those in colder climates, equipping the 2020 Audi S5 with winter tires transforms it into a capable and enjoyable vehicle even in snowy conditions.
Interior, Technology, and Practicality of the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback
The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback excels in blending sporty driving dynamics with luxurious comfort and advanced technology. Audi Drive Select offers customizable driving modes, including Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual. The Individual mode allows drivers to tailor the car’s settings to their preferences, such as combining a softer suspension with a more responsive steering and engine. An optional Dynamic Steering system further sharpens steering response in sportier settings.
However, the true strength of the S5 Sportback lies in its balanced character. In Dynamic mode, it transforms into a capable and engaging sports car for winding roads. Switching to Auto mode, the S5 becomes a refined and comfortable luxury car, ideal for daily commutes and city driving. This versatility is a hallmark of Audi’s “S” models. While the RS5 offers a similar balance, the significant price difference makes the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback a more compelling value proposition for many buyers seeking a sporty yet practical vehicle.
Inside, the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback receives updated technology, including Audi’s MIB 3 multimedia system, displayed on a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system is praised for its user-friendly interface, responsive touch inputs, and logical menu structure. While it forgoes the dual-screen setup found in models like the S6, the S5 retains a clean and sophisticated cabin design with traditional climate controls. A standout feature remains Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster, widely regarded as one of the best in the industry, offering customizable displays and driver information.
The Sportback body style is a key differentiator, significantly enhancing practicality without compromising the car’s sleek design. The hatchback configuration provides 21.8 cubic feet of cargo space, more than double that of the S5 Coupe. Folding rear seats further expand cargo capacity for larger items, making the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback surprisingly versatile for everyday needs.
Design, Value, and Competition for the 2020 Audi S5
Exterior updates for the 2020 model year include refreshed LED headlights and taillights, subtly refining the car’s appearance. The Black Optic Package, with its 20-inch wheels and darkened exterior trim, further enhances the sporty aesthetic. The Sportback body style itself is favored for its blend of coupe-like styling and added functionality compared to the Coupe and Cabriolet versions.
The Prestige trim level of the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback comes comprehensively equipped, including driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist, head-up display, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. While a fully loaded model can approach $70,000, it remains competitively priced within its segment, aligning with rivals like the Mercedes-AMG C43. A more moderately equipped Premium Plus model offers an appealing balance of features and value for many buyers.
The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback competes with models like the BMW 440i Gran Coupe and Kia Stinger GT. While the BMW is considered somewhat dated, and the Kia Stinger, despite its merits, may not yet sway traditional Audi buyers, the S5 Sportback holds a strong position. Within the Audi family, the S4 sedan and SQ5 crossover also present alternatives, but the S5 Sportback distinguishes itself with its unique blend of style, performance, and hatchback practicality, making it a compelling choice even when compared to its own siblings, and arguably even the higher-performance RS5 for everyday driving.
Conclusion: The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback – A Top All-Rounder
The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback stands out as a truly excellent all-around vehicle. It masterfully combines exhilarating performance with the practicality of a hatchback, wrapped in a luxurious and technologically advanced package. For drivers seeking a sporty and versatile daily driver that doesn’t compromise on comfort or style, the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback represents an ideal choice, often negating the need to step up to the more expensive and potentially less versatile RS5.
