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2008 Audi A5 Full Review
Date Published: 5/02/08
Also in the 2008 Audi A5 Review:
2008 Audi A5 Review
The 2008 Audi A5 is a 2-door coupe that seats four. In pricing and size A5 slots between Audi's compact A4 and midsize A6. Two versions are offered. The A5 is powered by a 265-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 engine. The high-performance S5 gets a 354-horsepower 4.2-liter V8. Both models include manual or automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. The A5 has standard 18-inch tires, while 19s are standard on the S5. Standard equipment on both models includes a sunroof, leather upholstery, and three-zone climate control. Options include a navigation system, blind-spot alert, and an uprated audio system. Available on A5 is an S line Sport package that includes unique styling cues, 19-inch performance tires, and sport seats.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.
Our Best Buys are the BMW Z4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A5, Audi R8, and Audi TT.
Our Best Buys are the BMW Z4 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi A5, Audi R8, and Audi TT.
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2008 Audi A5 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (S5) | Manual-transmission performance |
| Handling | Rear-seat room/comfort |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 8 | 8.3 |
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
In Consumer Guide testing, S5 test models averaged 14.6 mpg in mostly city driving and 19.0 with more highway miles. Premium-grade gas is required.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, S5 test models averaged 14.6 mpg in mostly city driving and 19.0 with more highway miles. Premium-grade gas is required.
Ride Quality
Expectedly firm and sharp bumps can register with a jolt. Overall, though, S5 is compliant enough and isn't tiresome on long highway trips.
| 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
Little body lean combined with tenacious grip and responsive steering make S5 a delight, particularly at higher speeds. Some of our testers found the steering to be a bit too light at low speeds. Braking is powerful and stable.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 8 | 8.8 |
Little body lean combined with tenacious grip and responsive steering make S5 a delight, particularly at higher speeds. Some of our testers found the steering to be a bit too light at low speeds. Braking is powerful and stable.
Quietness
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.
| 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
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.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 6 | 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'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.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 8 | 7.1 |
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)
The front seats are supportive, though some of our testers found it difficult to find 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.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 7 | 5.8 |
The front seats are supportive, though some of our testers found it difficult to find 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)
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.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 2 | .6 |
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
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.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 4 | 2.5 |
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
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 its German rivals on price.
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 4 | 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 its German rivals on price.
Total Score
| S5 w/navigation, manual | Class Average |
| 62 | 56.6 |
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
| Low Score | 40 | |
| Average Score | 56 | |
| High Score | 64 |
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2008 Audi A5 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 03/12/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| A5 2-door coupe, manual | $39,900 | $37,108 | $775 |
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| A5 2-door coupe, automatic | $41,200 | $38,315 | $775 |
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| S5 2-door coupe, manual | $50,500 | $46,966 | $775 |
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| S5 2-door coupe, automatic | $51,800 | $48,175 | $775 |
Price note: S5 adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
A5
Powertrain
3.2-liter V6 engine, 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, traction control, locking center differential.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/tri-zone automatic climate controls (including rear controls), tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, power front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, memory card slot, satellite radio, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers w/heated nozzles, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, 245/40R18 tires, alloy wheels.
S5 adds to A5:
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 engine, front and rear limited-slip differentials.
Safety
Tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), aluminum interior trim, wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night outside and rearview mirrors, universal garage door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Bi-xenon headlights w/washers, rear spoiler, sport suspension, 255/35R19 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Premium Pkg.
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A5
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$1,850
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$1,721
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Heated front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), automatic day/night rearview and outside mirrors, compass, universal garage door opener, bi-xenon headlights.
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S line Pkg.
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A5
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$2,900
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$2,698
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Steering-wheel paddle shifters, front sport seats, aluminum interior trim, unique interior and exterior trim, headlight washers, sport suspension, 255/35R19 tires. Requires Premium Pkg. NA w/upgraded leather upholstery.
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Technology Pkg.
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A5
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$1,700
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$1,580
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Rear-obstacle-detection system, rearview camera, keyless access and starting, steering-linked adaptive headlights. Requires navigation system. A5 requires Premium Pkg.
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Safety |
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Blind spot alert
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S5
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$500
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$466
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Requires Technology Pkg.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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A5, S5
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$2,390
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$2,178
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A5 requires Premium Pkg.
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Bang and Olufsen sound system
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A5, S5
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$850
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$791
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Upgraded leather upholstery
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A5
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$1,000
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$930
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Alcantara seat inserts
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S5
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$0
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$0
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Wood interior trim
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S5
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$500
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$466
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Stainless steel interior trim
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S5
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$750
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$698
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Carbon-fiber interior trim
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S5
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$500
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$466
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Special paint
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A5, S5
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$475
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$441
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Premium paint
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A5, S5
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$750
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$698
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255/35R19 tires
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A5
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$900
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$838
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Audi A5 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Audi A5 2-door coupe |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.0 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.0 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3737 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.1 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.1 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | -- |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | dohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /191 | 4.2 /255 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 265 @ 6500 | 354 @ 6800 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 243 @ 3250 | 325 @ 3500 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 6-speed manual | 16/27 | 14/21 |
| 6-speed automatic | 18/27 | 16/22 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Audi A5 2-door coupe |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Germany
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: Phantom Black Pearl Paint, Audi Navigation Plus, Technology Package (Audi Rear Parking System w/Rearview Camera, Adaptive Headlights), Premium Sound System, Stainless Steel Interior Trim Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 19.52 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Don Sikora The Audi S5 has the styling, performance, handling, and comfort for two to excel as a high-performance grand touring coupe. A lusty engine note, drop-dead good looks, pleasant expressway manners, and all-wheel drive add to the appeal. Ed Piotrowski There might not be a tremendously large market for personal luxury coupes, but Audi is ready to capture those buyers with the S5. This highly capable grand tourer is just as much at home on twisty roads as it is rolling down straight freeways. That's basically all anyone can ask of such vehicles. Rick Cotta Aggravating misuse of technology along with some lapses in convenience tarnish what is otherwise a glowing example of the modern luxury coupe. The Audi's trump card is its standard all-wheel drive, a feature offered only by the smaller BMW 328xi among direct competitors. If the svelte styling moves you and all-wheel drive is a benefit, the Audi's many positives will probably outweigh its unfortunate negatives. Tom Appel Such self indulgence. Our S5 was fast, cool looking, and really comfy. Sadly, we haven't driven the best of the lot, as our tester was shod with the optional ride-compromising 19-inch wheels and tires. Sure, $60,000 is a lot for a car. But is it too much for a hot coupe with a German V8 and a manual transmission? I'm not rich enough to say no, but I envy those of you who are. |
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