The automotive landscape is ever-evolving, with body styles blurring and customer preferences shifting. A fascinating trend has emerged where four-door coupes, or “Gran Coupes” as some brands like to call them, are not just niche offerings but actually outselling their more traditional counterparts. Take BMW for example, where the four-door Gran Coupe version of the 4 Series surprisingly became the top seller. After spending a week thoroughly examining the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback, it’s easy to understand why this body style resonates with buyers. This sleek S5 Sportback undeniably turns more heads than the conventional A4 or S4 sedans, and the inclusion of a hatchback significantly enhances its practicality. Furthermore, with four doors, accessing the rear seats for passengers or cargo is a breeze, eliminating the need to awkwardly fold forward front seats as in a two-door A5/S5 Coupe. For anyone considering models within the Audi A4/A5/S4/S5 range, the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback presents a compelling and arguably the most desirable option.
The Allure of the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback
Striking Design and Practicality
The Sportback design philosophy at Audi is simply captivating. The previous generation A5 Sportback, though not available in the U.S., was a true design icon, and the larger Audi A7 continues to be an object of automotive desire. While the sharper, more angular headlights of the S4 sedan might offer a slightly more aggressive front fascia, the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback’s profile and rear three-quarter view are undeniably stunning. The sloping roofline gracefully integrates into the hatchback, creating a silhouette that is both sporty and elegant. The 19-inch wheels and vibrant red brake calipers on the test model further accentuate its sporty character, adding tasteful visual flair. Beyond aesthetics, the Sportback configuration brings genuine practicality to the table. The hatchback opens to reveal a surprisingly spacious cargo area, far more versatile than a traditional sedan trunk. This makes loading larger items or luggage significantly easier, blending style with everyday usability.
Engaging Performance and Sound
The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback is not just about looks; it delivers a genuinely thrilling driving experience. Switching the drive mode to “Dynamic” unleashes a satisfyingly raspy and warm exhaust note that adds an auditory dimension to the sporty character. Audi has sometimes been criticized for muted exhaust sounds in their performance models, but the S5 Sportback breaks this mold, offering a sonorous soundtrack to match its capabilities. Under the hood lies a potent turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 354 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant provides ample thrust, propelling the nearly 3,900-pound Audi with impressive urgency. While accessing the full power band requires a deliberate push of the throttle, once engaged, the S5 Sportback delivers a surge of acceleration that feels both effortless and addictive. The driving experience echoes the sensation felt in the S4 sedan – a sense of eagerness and a desire to keep pushing harder. Whether cruising on the highway or tackling winding roads, the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback offers a level of performance that keeps the driver engaged and entertained.
Premium Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback reveals a cabin that is a testament to Audi’s renowned interior craftsmanship. The design is sophisticated and modern, the materials are of exceptional quality, and the overall ambiance exudes premium luxury. The test car featured faux carbon fiber trim, which might be a matter of personal preference, but the combination of blacks and grays on the dashboard and center console created a striking contrast with the supportive and visually appealing red leather seats. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit system, a fully digital instrument cluster, is a highlight, offering customizable displays and intuitive navigation. Even during prolonged periods in heavy traffic, the S5 Sportback’s cabin remains a comfortable and serene environment. The comfortable seats and quiet interior make even long commutes bearable, highlighting the car’s dual nature as both a sporty performer and a comfortable daily driver.
Areas for Improvement in the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback
Steering Feedback
Despite its dynamic capabilities, the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback falls slightly short in terms of steering feel. Even in the sport-focused “Dynamic” mode, the steering effort feels somewhat light and lacking in genuine feedback from the road. While there is a sense of weight to the steering wheel, it doesn’t translate into a strong connection between the driver and the front wheels. This trend of reduced steering feel is becoming noticeable in other Audi models as well, and it detracts slightly from the overall sporty driving experience. Enthusiasts often crave a more communicative steering system that provides a clearer sense of grip and road conditions, and this is an area where the S5 Sportback could be improved.
Redundant Center Screen
Audi’s Virtual Cockpit system is undeniably impressive and highly functional. However, the presence of a secondary screen in the center of the dashboard feels somewhat redundant, especially for drivers who frequently utilize Virtual Cockpit. While this central screen serves its purpose, it can feel like an unnecessary duplication of information, particularly with the comprehensive Virtual Cockpit display directly in front of the driver. In models like the Audi Q7, the smaller center screen can be retracted, creating a cleaner dashboard design and potentially improving forward visibility. Offering this retractable functionality in other models, including the S5 Sportback, could streamline the interior and enhance the user experience for those who primarily rely on the Virtual Cockpit.
Competition and Alternatives
Market Positioning
The most direct competitor to the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback within Audi’s own lineup is the S4 sedan. These two models share essentially the same mechanical underpinnings and performance capabilities. The S4, with its traditional sedan roofline, offers slightly more rear headroom, but sacrifices the Sportback’s sleek styling and hatchback practicality. Priced similarly to the S4, the S5 Sportback also finds itself competing with other sporty sedans in the market, such as the Mercedes-AMG C43 and Alfa Romeo Giulia. These competitors offer their own unique blends of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics. Ultimately, the choice often comes down to personal preference and priorities.
Choosing the Right Sporty Sedan/Sportback
The 2018 Audi S5 Sportback presents a compelling package for buyers seeking a sporty and stylish vehicle that doesn’t compromise on practicality. Its striking Sportback design, potent performance, and luxurious interior make it a highly desirable option in its segment. While the steering feel could be more communicative and the center screen somewhat redundant, these minor drawbacks are overshadowed by the car’s overall strengths. For those prioritizing style and versatility in a performance-oriented vehicle, the 2018 Audi S5 Sportback stands out as an excellent choice. However, buyers should also consider their individual needs and preferences, weighing factors such as rear seat space, steering feedback, and technological interface when making their final decision in the competitive sporty sedan/sportback market.
Competitors:
Audi S4
BMW 440i Gran Coupe
Mercedes-AMG C43
