2008 Audi A5: Road Test
2008 Audi A5 ▼
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- MSRP: $39,900 - $51,800
- Invoice: $37,108 - $48,175
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Our road test for the 2008 Audi A5 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Audi A5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Audi A5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Audi A5 help you decide if a 2008 Audi A5 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.1 |
A manual-transmission S5 is the only version of this car made available for us to test so far. Audi says it does 4.9-seconds 0-60 mph, and it feels that quick. The S5 has plenty of power for any situation. The manual transmission disappoints with long throws and less precise shifting and clutch engagement than we've come to expect from Audi.
FUEL ECONOMY
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
In Consumer Guide testing, S5 test models averaged 14.6 mpg in mostly city driving and 19.0-19.5 with more highway miles. Premium-grade gas is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.4 |
Expectedly firm and sharp bumps can register with a jolt. Overall, though, S5 is compliant enough and isn't tiresome on long highway trips.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.7 |
Little body lean combined with tenacious grip and responsive steering make S5 a delight, particularly at higher speeds. Some of our testers find the steering to be a bit too light at low speeds. Braking is powerful and stable.
QUIETNESS
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.2 |
The S5's throaty V8 makes nice mechanical noises while accelerating and recedes quietly into the background while cruising. Its low-profile tires roar on coarse pavement, and wind rush is noticeable, particularly around the exterior mirrors.
CONTROLS
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.6 |
Audi's MultiMedia Interface (MMI) uses a central control knob with flanking buttons to govern most audio, climate, and navigation system functions. While many of said functions are clearly labeled on a dashboard screen, performing simple tasks such as adjusting the seat heater require multiple button presses.
DETAILS
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.9 |
S5's interior ambiance is more sporty than luxurious, accented by the optional stainless steel trim. Materials are of high quality throughout the cabin, but one test model suffered from an intermittent rattle in the rear seat area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.8 |
The front seats are supportive, though some of our testers find it difficult to achieve a comfortable driving position. A high beltline and pinched window height contribute to a bathtub-like feel from behind the wheel. The standard tilt and telescopic steering column doesn't offer any power operation, which is a pretty glaring omission in this class. Visibility is surprisingly good in all directions. The usual coupe-clumsy doors impede entry and exit.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | .7 |
Though the front passenger seat offers power sliding operation to ease entry and exit to the rear seat, no one but small children will be comfortable back there. The front seat's sliding action is very slow to boot.
CARGO ROOM
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 2.6 |
The trunk has a good amount of space, but it's narrow and not very tall, which precludes hauling of bulky items. Split folding rear seatbacks are a nice convenience, though. Interior storage includes large door pockets, a moderately sized glovebox, and small center console.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.3 |
The high-performance S5 version of this premium sporty car does many things well. It has strong acceleration, capable handling, and it comes with the security of all-wheel drive. It's not as outright sporty as the two-seat BMW Z4 or Porsche Cayman, but A5 and S5 can undercut their German rivals on price.
Total Score
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 62 | 56.5 |
Total Score: 62
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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