With recent redesigns and launches like the BMW 4 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus RC, luxury coupes (true two-door coupes, not sedans posing as coupes) are seeing something of a renaissance. It’s now Audi’s turn, thanks to the updated 2018 A5 and S5 coupes. They display new engines, improved styling both inside and out, and a plethora of new technological features. The A5 and S5 are the A4/S4 sedan’s coupe cousins, and they include much of the same improvements as the 2017 A4 makeover.
The coupe’s profile hasn’t changed much, but the details have been sharper and more dimensional from front to back. With a larger, flatter grille, a lower hood line, and a lower stance, the car appears more aggressive. The headlights and taillights have also been updated, and the front lights now have Audi’s distinctive LED daytime running lamps in addition to the standard xenon headlights. Standard LED taillights serve their purpose in the back, while full LED headlights (low/high beams) are optional.
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Interior
Two of the most noticeable improvements to the interior’s usefulness are the electronic gear selector and floating dashboard-mounted media screen, which take the place of the former coupe’s mechanical, pull-back gear selector and integrated dashboard screen, respectively. In other Audi vehicles we’ve reviewed, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with adjustable Virtual Cockpit is stunning; the large display features high-quality visuals ranging from conventional analog gauges to a full-width navigation display.
The S5 comes equipped with unusual sport seats that have contrast stitching and a massaging function, as well as an unusual flat-bottomed steering wheel with three spokes. A panoramic sunroof, ambient LED lighting, and interior aluminum trim are standard on all A5 and S5 coupes. Additionally, they include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and an optional 19-speaker, 755-watt Bang & Olufsen radio is also available.
Under the Hood
In 2017, two new engines will result in higher power. The A5’s lone engine, a 252-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While the A5 has all-wheel drive as standard, depending on the transmission selected, it can use one of two distinct systems. While the automatic A5 employs a more conventional Quattro system with a standard torque distribution of 40:60 front to back, the manual A5 drives the wheels with a new Quattro Ultra system capable of driving the front wheels alone to save gasoline. According to Audi, there are no current fuel economy estimations.
A new turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 21 more horsepower than its previous supercharged equivalent is housed inside the S5. Fans of manual transmissions will be dismayed to learn that the S5 only comes with a conventional torque converter eight-speed automatic transmission; there is no row-your-own alternative. An optional performance package and sport differential, which distributes torque between the rear wheels to improve handling, improve the S5’s driving capabilities.
The A5 can reach 60 mph in 5.6 seconds with an automatic transmission and 5.7 seconds with a manual transmission, according to Audi, while the more potent S5 can reach that speed in 4.4 seconds. That is a half-second faster than the automatic for the A5 and six tenths faster for the manual. According to Audi, the S5 is a half-second faster than the previous S5.
Additionally, the new suspension comes in an equal number of variants, if you thought the gearbox and all-wheel-drive options were complex. Alternatively, you can choose the “comfort adaptive damping suspension,” which lowers the ride height by 10 mm and uses adaptive, adjustable firmness dampers that are adjustable in the Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual drive modes. The sport suspension on A5 coupes has a ride height that is 23 mm lower, as well as unique anti-roll bars, dampers, and springs. The normal S5 suspension is replaced by a sport adaptive damping system, which is an option.
Safety
Audi Pre Sense City, which can detect a collision (between a vehicle and a pedestrian) below 52 mph, is one of the standard safety features. Available features include lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Audi claims that the traffic jam assist feature of the adaptive cruise control helps maintain a predetermined distance in traffic from 0 to 25 mph by stopping, accelerating, and offering steering direction to lessen driver fatigue.
Has the 2018 Audi get CarPlay?
Audi A3 Premium Plus for 2018 This model adds Audi Advanced keyless start, stop, and enter to the infotainment system along with Apple CarPlay(TM) and Google(TM) Android Auto(TM) smartphone interface.
The 2017 Audi S5 is Apple CarPlay compatible.
The Audi S5 is the executive coupe for people who want to mix young sportiness and sophisticated sophistication, and it expertly achieves both goals.
You’ll observe that many of the towns in a nation with a long history, like Portugal, are constructed on strong, historical foundations with modernism piled on top. The character of the underpinnings is unaffected by what is on the surface.
This is the situation with the most recent version of Audi’s executive coupe, the S5: You get tried-and-true sophistication and sportiness, packaged in a contemporary package.
The sportier version of the automaker’s most recent A5 coupe, the 2017 Audi S5, is available. Under the hood, a 3.0-liter TFSI V6 with 354 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque is located. An eight-speed Tiptronic transmission distributes all of the power to all four wheels.
Dress for success
The S5 features a subtle, quiet-cool appearance that conveys enough elegance for any circumstance. Starting with the 3D wave line running across the car’s profile, the design of the car contains a number of subtle notes you might not initially detect, much like a robust wine. Audi literally gave the power line that runs from head to tail a twist. It has now developed into a severe wrinkle that runs from the vehicle’s head to its tail and is visible even in the gas cap.
The S5’s hood receives a similar makeover, with a dome carved with clear, undetectable air ducts that give the coupe a fast appearance even when it is still. The car has flared wheel arches that give it a broader, more earth-hugging appearance that highlights its sporting credentials.
Plenty up my sleeve
The S5’s interior is crammed with goodies without being overly cluttered. The dashboard is covered in a single, uninterrupted panel of brushed aluminum (or carbon fiber, if you choose), while the center console is covered in a second panel. The latter is very amazing, although it seems like it would eventually be vulnerable to scratches and dings.
There isn’t much more to complain about, so if it seems like a minor complaint, that’s because it is. Even the back seats can accommodate two adults who are fully grown with satisfaction, and both the driver and passenger chairs are as cozy and supportive as you could hope for. When it comes to housing vehicle controls and entertainment features, the center console’s design is unobtrusive.
With the Plus option, the in-dash computer comes with an Audi connect SIM card that is permanently installed and provides users with access to a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. From the start, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, and an Audi app lets you use various car features on your phone, smartwatch, or even Apple TV.
The S5 now has the Audi Virtual Cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT digital display cluster that shares many MMI features and puts them directly in front of the driver, in addition to the 8.3-inch navigation and infotainment screen.
Business time
The majority of the trip through Porto, Portugal is either uphill or downhill, through winding cobblestone roads that are oppressive to spines, regardless of your current suspension, making driving through any section of the city scary. However, as I drove outside of town, the S5’s sport suspension did all it could to lessen the ear-splitting vibrations. The S5 could essentially unbutton its collar on the roads going away from blue-tiled structures and riverboats there.
The S5’s suspension is capable of handling both since it continuously assesses the situation and makes adjustments in line with the selected drive mode. If you choose softness, the dampers will smooth out any bumps in the road; if you choose sport, the S5 will lock in and use its five-link front and rear suspension to power through the turns.
With 350 horsepower available, there is more than enough power to enjoy oneself, and the S5 does so with diligence. It more closely resembles a strong shove that immobilizes you than a gut-punch. The smart sports car is allowed to display some of its movements from the S5’s great driving position, wrapping through corners with control and just enough roll to soften the ride through bends.
Conclusion
The result is a living, mature vehicle with enough fun to keep drivers interested and enough intelligence to be taken seriously when necessary. It stands at an unusual intersection: The world of crazy, boy racer, Hot-Wheel dreams on the left is entertaining, but it leaves little room for reality. The realm of subdued, executive sedans that exude authority, luxury, and comfort is to the right.
The Audi S5 chooses its own route through the center. It’s not the only vehicle in its class that can do thisthe BMW 4-Series comes to mindbut it does so with excellent balance as it straddles the line between the two worlds. Calmly cool. Avoid being silly.
Audi suggests that the 2017 S5’s price will be slightly more than the $53,100 suggested retail price (MSRP) now in effect. This fall, it will continue to map numerous European routes, and soon after, it is anticipated to cross the Atlantic.
Has the 2018 Audi A5 CarPlay?
An infotainment interface that responds quickly and is simple to use is made possible by intuitive software and durable hardware. The only aspect we don’t like about this system is that it lacks touchscreen functionality, which makes it a little more difficult to use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were both created with touch-based interactions in mind. All A5 models from Audi come equipped with a plethora of infotainment capabilities as standard, including USB connectivity, power outlets, and Bluetooth phone and audio streaming. The A5’s floating infotainment display, which is either 7.0 inches (standard) or 8.3 inches (optional), is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Both navigation and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system are options. Both of the USB connections on the A5 are found in the console between the front seats. They both produced 1.8 amps, which should be plenty for most devices. The MMI system from Audi is generally easy to use, and getting used to the rotary knob controller is a quick and pleasant procedure. The hardware and software of the MMI system are compatible and quick, earning a Good rating in our testing with an average response time of under 0.6 seconds.
The 2016 Audi S5 is Apple CarPlay compatible.
CarPlay links any iPhone 5, 5S, or 5C into the vehicle’s infotainment/telematics and display systems, in this example, Audi’s already outstanding MMI multimedia system. CarPlay is currently available in a number of 2014 Ferrari, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo models.
If my Audi has Apple CarPlay, how do I know?
Most vehicles made in 2014 or after feature Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. You can check the user manual or conduct a Google search using the year, make, and model of your car to find out if it has Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. If your car doesn’t have a wireless dock, you can alternatively use the primary USB connector to connect your phone and view the menu. If your vehicle is equipped with it, an app will appear on the screen and request your permission from your phone. Although these apps are incredibly user-friendly, if you need help, Google (and YouTube!) are always available.
When you connect in your phone, some automobile systems (like Hyundai’s) instantly open Apple CarPlay or Android Auto; however, other systems require you to activate them through the infotainment system (BMW, for example). The technologies are there in your car if CarPlay or Android Auto are listed on the Monroney window sticker, although you might need to look for them.
The Pioneer AVH-3300NEX ($529.97 on Amazon) is a nice system to look into if you’re upgrading your current car but only have one installation slot.
Does Apple CarPlay exist in 2018 vehicles?
Apple CarPlay is a feature that is available in at least a few models from the majority of major automakers, and in some cases, practically all of their models. These manufacturers include Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen, and others.
Can Audi MMI be upgraded to Apple CarPlay?
By doing the following, you can link Apple CarPlay to the Audi MMI system: After making sure that Bluetooth is turned on for your iPhone, select “Phone” from the MMI’s main menu. Select “Connect mobile device” from the menu. Once it displayed on the screen, select your device and permit pairing with your Audi.
How can my Audi s5 be connected to CarPlay?
Wireless Setup for Apple CarPlay Turn on your Audi, then put it in PARK. Press Bluetooth > Phone > Connect Mobile Device on your Audi’s touchscreen. Now the system will start looking for devices. Choose the device you want, then make sure the PINs on each of them match.
Has the 2018 Audi A4 CarPlay?
Although its infotainment options are unchanged for 2018, the A4 is still one of the better-equipped cars in its class. The Technology package from the previous year, which came with a larger 8.3-inch infotainment screen, navigation, and the Virtual Cockpit gauge display, is now known as the Navigation and Telematics package. The infotainment system in the A4 is easy to understand and use thanks to its clear graphics and well-organized menus. In order to reduce distractions, an optional Virtual Cockpit instrument-panel display puts a wealth of useful data right in the driver’s line of sight. A rotary knob in the center console operates the 7.0-inch center screen, which is part of the A4’s standard configuration. There are many standard features, including Bluetooth, two USB outlets, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A more potent Bang & Olufsen audio system with 19 speakers and 755 watts of output is also featured in various option packages, along with navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and in-car Wi-Fi.
Is there a touch screen in the 2018 Audi A5?
The new Audi A5 proves that sports coupes are still relevant in a world where crossovers are taking over. The attractive A5which is also available as a convertibleundergoes a redesign for the 2018 model year and enters its second generation with more power, Audi’s newest infotainment system, and a new “five-door coupe version, called the Sportback, that’s intended to broaden the nameplate’s appeal and draw customers seeking a dose of utility as traditional coupes and convertibles continue to lose market share.
The four-seater describes itself as a member of the expanding group of all-wheel-drive coupes and convertibles. The A5’s dynamic powertraina 252-horsepower, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine coupled to a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmissionis complemented by Audi’s standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system. (The coupe has a six-speed manual transmission available as an option.) While acceleration is smooth and confident, real thrill-seekers might prefer the A5’s more powerful S5 model, which comes with a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 354 horsepower and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Four driving modes are included with the vehicle: comfort, auto, dynamic, and a personal option that may be adjusted according to the driver’s preferences.
The A5’s interior is adorned with leather seating, aluminum accents, and a wraparound dashboard that proudly displays Audi’s optional Virtual Cockpit, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with buttons, a touchscreen, and handwriting recognition technology. Standard features include Bluetooth, smartphone connection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and two USB ports.
Neither of the two federal safety rating agencies has given the A5 a crashworthiness rating. Audi’s pre-sense basic and city safety systems, which feature pedestrian detection and front collision warning, are available on all models. Rearview cameras, front and back parking sensors, and reverse traffic detection are available on higher trims. The A5 achieves a city fuel economy of 24 mpg and a highway fuel economy of 34 mpg.
Starting prices for the A5 coupe and cabriolet are $42,800 and $49,600, respectively. Sportback prices begin at $42,600.