2025 Audi S5 blends comfort, tech, and newfound agility

The 2025 Audi S5 combines digital luxury with subtle driving thrills, offering a viable rival to BMW's M340i despite notable changes.

What begins as a whimsical, semi-comedic road trip across Wales quickly transforms into a compelling investigation of Audi's latest mid-tier performance sedan. The 2025 Audi S5, an emblem of Audi's shifting priorities and design philosophies, arrives burdened with the weight of expectation—and a legacy that’s as polished as it is problematic.

A Journey of Doubt and Discovery

Audi's abandonment of tactile buttons, replacement of mechanical functionality with digital gimmicks (like YouTube-ready infotainment screens and customizable taillights), and the streamlining of the A4/S4 lineage into the A5/S5 left him wary. In a market long dominated by the BMW M340i, could this new S5 genuinely stand its ground?

Early impressions suggest that the S5 is, at the very least, competent. It offers a smooth ride, strong overtaking power, and user-friendly tech like CarPlay. The V6 now makes 367 horsepower and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission—responsive and refined compared to its predecessor. Yet it’s still no sports car. While the S5 remains quick and stable, the excitement is diluted, the steering feel lifeless despite Audi’s promises of improvement.

The Surprise in the Curve

The big revelation came on an impromptu test track. There, the S5 unexpectedly demonstrated oversteer capability—a behavior previously uncharacteristic for an Audi of this class. Thanks to revised suspension, increased camber, and a redesigned rear differential, the car's handling became noticeably livelier. Yes, understeer is still present, but now it's balanced by a playful rear end, adding a layer of driving engagement rarely seen in this model line.

Tech Forward or Tech Fatigue?

Inside, the S5’s cabin sparks debate. Some elements feel downgraded: the steering wheel logo is now flat, buttons are replaced with haptic surfaces, and material quality is inconsistent. The electrochromatic panoramic roof and ambient lighting impress visually, but the loss of previous tactile feedback is disappointing.

Fortunately, the seats remain a strong point—comfortable and ergonomically sound. A point of contention is the switch from stitched logos to illuminated plastic emblems. Rear space has slightly increased as well—a welcome improvement, albeit not a game changer.

Seat comfort remains a strong point. Even with a controversial shift from stitched logos to light-up plastic emblems, the S5’s sport seats deliver the ergonomic quality Audi fans expect. Rear seat space, thanks to a slight increase in size, also sees an improvement.

Design Tweaks and Missed Opportunities

Visually, the 2025 S5 walks a conservative line. The new design is safe, maybe too safe. Elements like chrome wing mirrors and the full-bar taillight borrow cues from Audi’s RS line but don't push boundaries. Notably, Audi has pulled the coupe from the lineup and denied North America access to the Avant wagon variant—two decisions that have left enthusiasts disappointed.

Verdict: A Safe Bet with Surprising Depth

The 2025 Audi S5 may not dethrone the BMW M340i, but it closes the gap enough to be a valid alternative. For those prioritizing comfort, daily usability, and flashes of driving enjoyment, the S5 checks many boxes. It doesn’t revolutionize the segment, but it evolves meaningfully. Audi hasn't reinvented the formula—but in a few unexpected places, they’ve added just enough spice to keep things interesting.