Used 2018 Audi S5 Sportback 3.0T quattro Premium Plus

2018 Audi S5 Sportback: A Blend of Performance and Practicality

The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback is a sophisticated and sporty five-door coupe that masterfully blends exhilarating performance with everyday usability. It's designed for drivers who appreciate a powerful engine, advanced technology, and the practical advantage of a hatchback design without compromising on style or luxury.

Highlights

• Engine and Performance: At its heart, the 2018 S5 Sportback boasts a potent 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine producing a robust 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a standard 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, delivers brisk acceleration and confident handling in various conditions. The powertrain offers a satisfying surge of power and a refined driving experience.
• Safety Features: Audi equips the S5 Sportback with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies designed to protect occupants and assist the driver:
  • Audi Pre Sense basic & city: This system prepares the vehicle for a potential collision by pretensioning seatbelts and closing windows. The "city" function adds automatic braking for low-speed urban driving scenarios.
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with traction control: Enhances vehicle stability by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power when it detects a loss of steering control.
  • Advanced Airbag System: Includes front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags for comprehensive occupant protection.
  • Optional Driver Assistance Package: This widely available package often includes features like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Traffic Jam Assist (allowing for semi-autonomous driving in heavy traffic), Active Lane Assist (helping to keep the vehicle centered in its lane), and High Beam Assist.
• Trims: The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback was primarily offered in two distinct trims:
  • Premium Plus: This is the more widely encountered trim level and serves as the foundation for the S5 Sportback's luxurious and performance-oriented features. It typically includes a generous array of standard equipment.
  • Prestige: The Prestige trim elevates the S5 Sportback with even more advanced technology and comfort features, often including a Head-Up Display, Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System, and enhanced driver assistance systems as standard.
• Other Notable Aspects:
  • Sportback Design: The signature five-door silhouette provides a practical liftback tailgate, offering significantly more cargo space and easier loading than a traditional coupe or sedan.
  • Interior Quality and Technology: The cabin is a hallmark of Audi's design philosophy, featuring high-quality materials, excellent craftsmanship, and a driver-focused cockpit. The MMI infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, is intuitive and easy to use.
  • Dynamic Ride Control: The S5 Sportback often features Audi's Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) suspension system (available or standard depending on market and options), which electronically links diagonally opposed wheels to reduce body roll and improve handling.

What to Expect

Owning a 2018 Audi S5 Sportback is generally characterized by a premium and engaging experience. The driving dynamics are a key draw, offering a balance between a comfortable ride for daily commutes and spirited performance when desired. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in various weather conditions, making it a capable all-season vehicle.

Maintenance: As a performance-oriented luxury vehicle, the S5 Sportback will likely have higher maintenance costs than a comparable non-premium or non-performance model. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and brake component replacements will be standard. Due to the supercharged V6 engine and sophisticated AWD system, it's advisable to follow Audi's recommended maintenance schedule closely. Purchasing from a certified pre-owned program or having a trusted independent Audi mechanic can help manage costs.

Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback will typically be higher than for more mainstream vehicles. This is due to its performance capabilities, luxury features, and the cost of parts and repairs associated with a premium German marque. Factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will significantly influence the final cost.

Potential Considerations

• Supercharger Service: While the supercharged V6 is known for its smooth power delivery, it's worth noting that superchargers can require specific servicing or potential replacement over the long term, which could be a significant expense. Researching the maintenance history of any used model is crucial.
• Infotainment System Longevity: While the MMI system in 2018 was advanced for its time, software updates might be limited for newer smartphone integration features compared to current-generation vehicles.
• Fuel Economy: As a powerful V6, the S5 Sportback's fuel economy will be lower than a four-cylinder or hybrid equivalent. Drivers who prioritize exceptional MPG might find it less ideal.
• Ride Firmness: While comfortable, the performance-tuned suspension can result in a firmer ride compared to a standard A5 Sportback, which some drivers might find less ideal for long, uninspiring highway journeys.

Overall Summary

The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback remains a compelling choice for those seeking a potent and practical luxury vehicle. It masterfully blends the exhilarating performance of a sport sedan with the versatility of a hatchback, all wrapped in Audi's signature elegant design and refined interior. With its strong V6 engine, quattro all-wheel drive, and a host of advanced technology and safety features, it offers an engaging and sophisticated driving experience suitable for both daily use and spirited drives. While it comes with the typical considerations of a performance luxury car regarding maintenance and insurance, its blend of performance, practicality, and premium appeal makes it a standout in its segment.