Audi S5 B8.5 / B9 (2013-2024)

Verdict

BHP

333-349 bhp

0–60

4.6 s

Top speed

155 mph

MPG

23.0 mpg

Used

$22,000-$48,000

The B8.5 facelift (2013-2017) replaced the V8 with the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 making 333 hp and 325 lb-ft, paired with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Coupe and Cabriolet bodies offered. The B9 generation (2018-2024) ditched the supercharger for a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 making 349 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic (no manual offered). Two body styles in the B9 era: Coupe and Sportback (five-door fastback) — the convertible was killed for the B9. The Sportback is increasingly the volume seller as buyers shifted from coupes. Reception has been consistent across both eras: quick, comfortable, deeply competent, slightly lacking the character of the B8 V8. The B8.5 supercharged V6 has the better noise; the B9 turbo has the broader torque curve.

Strengths

Supercharged V6 has unique character (B8.5)
Turbo V6 broader torque curve (B9)
Genuinely fast — 4.6-second 0-60
Cabriolet body offered B8.5-only
S tronic dual-clutch on B8.5 is sharp

Weaknesses

No manual offered after 2017
Heavier than first-gen B8
S tronic mechatronics unit known failure (B8.5)
Audi MMI infotainment dated by mid-B9 era
Tire wear on summer Pirellis is heavy

Notable tech

3.0L supercharged V6 (B8.5, 333 hp)
3.0L turbocharged V6 (B9, 349 hp)
Seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch (B8.5)
Eight-speed Tiptronic (B9)
Sport differential optional (B9)
Virtual Cockpit digital cluster (B9)

Common issues

S tronic mechatronics failure (B8.5)
Carbon build-up on intake valves (both engines)
Supercharger pulley failure (B8.5)
Coolant leaks on supercharged V6 (B8.5)
MMI infotainment occasional reboots (B9)

Used-market budget

$30,000

B8.5 cars $22-32k; verify mechatronics service. B9 coupes $32-42k, Sportbacks $35-45k for late-run cars. Premium Plus and Prestige trims worth the extra over base.