The Audi S5 Sportback has consistently impressed automotive enthusiasts, offering a compelling mix of sporty performance and everyday usability. While the higher-performance RS5 Sportback exists, after spending a week thoroughly testing the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback, it becomes clear why this model hits the sweet spot for many drivers. It delivers exhilarating performance without sacrificing the comfort and practicality expected from a luxury vehicle.
Overview of the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback
The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback carries forward all the admired traits of its RS5 sibling, but in a more accessible and arguably more sensible package. It boasts a sleek design, a comfortable and refined interior, and cutting-edge technology, all while providing the added versatility of a hatchback. Under the hood, the S5 Sportback features a potent 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine producing 349 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain enables the S5 Sportback to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
While the RS5 Sportback is undeniably quicker, achieving the same sprint in a blistering 3.8 seconds, this difference is negligible for most daily driving scenarios. The S5 Sportback offers ample power for spirited driving and confident highway cruising, making it a truly capable all-around performer. Furthermore, some argue that the RS5’s performance can feel somewhat sterile, whereas the S5 provides a more balanced and engaging driving experience that is perfectly suited to its position in the Audi lineup. The gap between the S5 and RS5 feels less pronounced than the performance jump from a Mercedes-AMG C43 to a C63, for example, making the S5 a more compelling value proposition for many.
Engine, Performance, and Driving Dynamics
The 3.0-liter V6 engine in the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback is a standout feature. It delivers robust low-end torque, ensuring brisk acceleration from a standstill and effortless overtaking at higher speeds. The twin-scroll turbocharger responds quickly, providing boost on demand and minimizing any noticeable lag. Importantly, enjoying the engine’s performance doesn’t come at a significant fuel economy penalty. During real-world testing, the S5 Sportback achieved around 23 miles per gallon in combined driving conditions, matching the EPA estimates.
For those seeking an even more dynamic driving experience, the optional S Sport Package is highly recommended. This package includes a stiffer suspension with adaptive dampers, which strike an excellent balance between sporty handling and ride comfort. The adaptive dampers prevent the ride from becoming overly harsh, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. The key highlight of the S Sport Package is the sport rear differential, which incorporates torque vectoring on the rear axle. Given that Audi’s Quattro system is inherently rear-biased, this feature enhances the S5’s agility and responsiveness in corners. While it doesn’t transform the S5 into a purely rear-wheel-drive car, it adds a welcome layer of engagement and control, especially in tighter turns. For drivers in regions with snowy winters, equipping the S5 Sportback with winter tires transforms it into a confident and capable all-weather machine, ready to tackle challenging road conditions.
Audi Drive Select further allows drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences with Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and customizable Individual modes. A preferred configuration is often setting the chassis to Comfort for relaxed cruising, steering to Dynamic for sharper responses, and the engine to Auto for balanced performance. An optional Dynamic Steering system is also available, further quickening the steering response in sportier settings, although the standard steering setup is already well-weighted and communicative.
Interior, Technology, and Practicality
The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback excels in interior technology. The 10.1-inch center display houses Audi’s MIB 3 multimedia system, which is user-friendly and responsive. The system features colorful menu tiles, quick response to touch inputs, and an intuitive menu structure. While the S5 Sportback does not include the secondary lower screen found in models like the S6, the streamlined layout maintains a sophisticated and uncluttered cabin aesthetic. The traditional row of physical climate controls is easy to use and preferred by some over touch-sensitive alternatives.
A standout feature of the S5 Sportback’s technology suite is the Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster. This configurable display remains a class-leading feature, offering drivers a wealth of information and customization options directly in their line of sight.
The Sportback body style is a major advantage of this model. While aesthetically pleasing, it also significantly enhances practicality. The hatchback design provides 21.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, more than double the capacity of the S5 Coupe. Folding down the rear seats further expands the cargo area, easily accommodating longer items. This versatility makes the S5 Sportback a compelling alternative to crossovers for those who prioritize both style and utility.
Trim Levels, Options, and Value
The Prestige trim level of the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback comes generously equipped with features. It includes the advanced MIB 3 infotainment system, Virtual Cockpit, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Standard features on the Prestige trim encompass full-speed adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist, a head-up display, traffic sign recognition, parking assist, a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, and wireless phone charging.
While a fully loaded S5 Sportback Prestige can reach around $70,000, it remains competitively priced within its segment, aligning closely with rivals like the Mercedes-AMG C43. For those seeking a more attainable price point, the mid-level Premium Plus trim with selected options offers an excellent balance of features and value, potentially bringing the price down to a more reasonable range.
Rivals and Conclusion
The 2020 Audi S5 Sportback stands out as a well-rounded vehicle that is difficult to fault. Its primary competitors include the BMW 440i Gran Coupe and the Kia Stinger GT. While the BMW 440i Gran Coupe is a worthy contender, it is an older model in its current generation. The Kia Stinger GT offers strong performance and value, but may not yet hold the same brand cachet for traditional Audi buyers. Interestingly, the S5 Sportback also competes with other models within Audi’s own lineup, such as the S4 sedan and the SQ5 crossover. However, the S5 Sportback’s unique combination of sporty performance, hatchback practicality, and refined luxury makes it a compelling choice, even when considered against its stablemates. Ultimately, the 2020 Audi S5 Sportback represents a near-perfect blend of performance, practicality, and luxury, making it an exceptionally appealing option in the sporty hatchback segment and arguably the best S5 variant available.
