The dream of owning an Audi R8 is one shared by many automotive enthusiasts. However, for those seeking a thrilling driving experience without the supercar price tag, the Audi S5 Coupe emerges as a compelling alternative. The 2013 Audi S5, in particular, represents a sweet spot in the model’s lifecycle, offering a refreshed design and potent performance that’s sure to evoke smiles, much like its more exotic sibling.
This mid-cycle refresh of the elegant coupe brought noticeable updates, primarily to the front fascia. The redesigned headlights and the incorporation of Audi’s signature LED running lights are a masterstroke. These lights not only enhance visibility but also inject a dose of modern aggression into the S5’s face, perfectly befitting a sports coupe with serious acceleration and handling capabilities.
Image alt text: Angular front view of a silver 2013 Audi S5 Coupe Quattro V6T Supercharged showcasing its updated LED headlights and grille design.
Everywhere it goes, the Audi S5 Coupe garners attention. Its low, wide stance is frequently praised, with onlookers often remarking on its striking aesthetics. While it may not command the same level of awe as an R8, the S5’s design is undeniably captivating. Audi’s designers have truly perfected the proportions of this car, achieving a silhouette defined by a long, commanding hood, a truncated trunk lid, and a gracefully sloping roofline. The sport-tuned suspension, a signature feature of the S5, lowers the ride height compared to the A5 and A4 models, while the 19-inch wheels and low-profile tires complete the sporty and sophisticated look.
Image alt text: Side profile of a white 2013 Audi S5 Coupe Quattro at sunset, emphasizing its long hood, sloping roofline, and sporty stance.
Despite its low-slung exterior, the Audi S5 Coupe offers surprisingly generous headroom for both the driver and front passenger. The rear seats, however, are a different story. While not as cramped as some reviews might suggest, the rear space is best suited for shorter trips or smaller passengers. Real-world testing with a young family revealed the limitations of the rear seating when attempting to accommodate child seats. Legroom becomes a premium for adults in the back, although a 6’2″ individual can manage a short journey, albeit with limited headroom and knee space. Passengers under five and a half feet tall will find the rear seats more accommodating.
However, practicality isn’t entirely sacrificed in the S5 Coupe. Folding down the rear seats unveils a surprisingly spacious cargo area. This feature transforms the S5 from a stylish coupe into a capable weekend getaway car, easily swallowing skis, luggage, and other gear – a level of practicality the R8 can only dream of.
Image alt text: Interior dashboard of the 2013 Audi S5 Coupe, highlighting the sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, clean design, and premium materials.
Moving beyond practicality, the Audi S5 Coupe truly shines in its driving experience. The Prestige model boasts a sporty, flat-bottom steering wheel, reminiscent of the R8. Its smaller diameter and tactile feel contribute to a more engaging driving experience. The well-placed paddle shifters for the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission are responsive and intuitive, enhancing driver control.
Perhaps the most debated change in the 2013 Audi S5 Coupe was the engine swap. The naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 was replaced with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6. While some lamented the loss of the V8’s distinctive soundtrack, the new V6 brings its own advantages: improved fuel economy and the consistent power delivery of a supercharged engine. This V6 is far from sonically disappointing; it delivers a satisfyingly sporty sound, arguably even better than the Infiniti G37x. Furthermore, Audi Drive Select allows for customization of the exhaust note through valve control.
Image alt text: Engine bay of the 2013 Audi S5 Coupe showcasing the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, emphasizing its compact size and powerful technology.
The supercharged V6 in the Audi S5 Coupe delivers 333 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 2,900 rpm. Performance testing at a mile above sea level yielded impressive results, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.11 seconds achieved on a cold January day with winter tires. This figure is remarkably close to the manufacturer’s claimed 4.9 seconds under ideal conditions. Launch Control, easily engaged through the Audi Drive Select system, contributes to this impressive performance.
The optional Sports Differential, a worthwhile $1,250 upgrade, significantly enhances the Audi S5 Coupe’s handling. It effectively mitigates the understeer often associated with Audi vehicles by distributing torque to the outside rear wheel during cornering. This system is palpable, allowing drivers to feel the car rotate through tight corners with increased agility. The S5’s handling prowess rivals even that of the R8 V10, making it an exceptional performer in its class. Despite the sporty suspension and 19-inch wheels, the ride quality remains surprisingly comfortable for daily driving. However, some drivers might desire heavier, more direct steering feedback, even in Dynamic mode.
While the engine downsizing might suggest weight reduction, the 2013 Audi S5 Coupe remains a substantial vehicle, weighing in at 3,924 pounds with the dual-clutch transmission. The supercharger adds some weight, but the smaller V6 engine contributes to a slightly improved weight distribution, positioning more mass closer to the front axle – a subtle but beneficial improvement in handling dynamics.
Identifying direct competitors for the Audi S5 Coupe is somewhat complex. It occupies a unique space in the market, bridging the gap between performance and price. In terms of both, it sits between several compelling alternatives, creating a scenario where it simultaneously has no direct competitor and competes with many. The table below illustrates this point:
| Starting Retail Price | City/Hwy MPG | HP / Lb-Ft | 0-60 in Sec. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 Audi S5 | $52,300 | 18/28 | 333/325 | 4.9 |
| 2013 BMW 335ix | $46,800 | 20/28 | 300/300 | 5.3 |
| 2013 BMW M3 | $60,100 | 14/20 | 414/295 | 4.5 |
| 2013 Infiniti G IPL | $53,100 | 19/27 | 348/276 | N/A |
| 2013 Mercedes C350 4Matic | $45,200 | 19/27 | 302/273 | 5.9 |
| 2013 Mercedes C63 AMG | $59,800 | 13/19 | 451/443 | 4.4 |
As the table demonstrates, with varying options, each of these competitors can be configured to a price point around $60,000, highlighting the S5’s position in a competitive landscape.
On the TFLcar scale of:
- Buy it!
- Lease it!
- Rent it!
- … or Forget it!
The 2013 Audi S5 Quattro coupe S-tronic earns a resounding Buy It!
Even with a fully optioned price tag reaching $66,895, the Audi S5 Coupe richly deserves this top rating. Despite minor quirks, it is a stunning sports coupe with a versatile character, equally adept at daily driving and track performance. The downsized, supercharged engine paired with the 7-speed transmission delivers impressive fuel economy, achieving 29.4 MPG on highway runs and an average of 23.5 MPG in mixed driving conditions. The 2013 Audi S5 Coupe truly embodies the spirit of an “everyman’s Audi R8,” offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and practicality.
Image alt text: Close-up of the 2013 Audi S5 Coupe’s rear LED taillights, emphasizing their modern design and Audi signature.
