2008 Audi S5 Review

Without a doubt, the 2008 Audi S5 has the looks, the shape, and the sex appeal to rev anyone's engine.

The 2008 Audi S5 is a stunning car. The hotted-up V-8 version of the A5 two-door introduced last year throbs with musclecar power--and especially from the rear, it bears more than a passing resemblance to the coming 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, with great proportions, curves, and crests to its sheetmetal.

Edmunds points out at Audi, “an 'S' instead of an 'A' before a model's number indicates the performance version.” In this case, the S5 stands for “one sinister-looking performance coupe,” Cars.com says. Edmunds likes the “elegant design inside and out.” The S5’s rear spoiler is integrated into the deck lid, and the 19-inch double-spoke alloy wheels add a bit of flair. MyRide.com notes that the "alloys fill the wheel wells," and "a rising lower body crease gives the flanks a bit of added character." To round out the image of this sweet ride, "the low roof line gives the Audi a hunkered-down stance.” Cars.com calls the car's shape "sleek" and automatically recognizable as an Audi, with MyRide.com remarking that "up front is the familial grille, which sits forward of a power-dome hood and between other Audi signature styling cues," such as the "aggressive horizontal headlight housings with (optional) LED daytime running lights." The tail doesn't exactly pop out at you, but the "trim taillights and a clear fascia design" make for a "subdued" style.

Cars.com details the differences between the S5 and the 2008 Audi A5: “Even though the S5's lines are essentially the same as the A5's, a number of subtle cues will tip off informed bystanders to the fact that they're looking at an S model. Details include a revised grille, silver-colored side mirrors, quad tailpipes and unique 19-inch alloy wheels, in addition to S5 badges.”

Inside, the 2008 Audi S5 sports a cockpit with a tight feel and a rather complex array of controls on the dash. There are plenty of buttons for radio controls and a generous application of aluminum and chrome trim, too, making the interior a little busy. Edmunds reports, “of course, there's also an impeccably trimmed cabin with finely finished leather and aluminum trim.” Cars.com says the cabin is pleasing as well, with several soft touches in the interior, including options such as "two-tone leather/Alcantara and aluminum, wood or piano-black dashboard trim." Car and Driver calls it a “fabulous place.”