The 2026 model marks a major generational shift as Audi rebrands its lineup, with the S5 now serving as the sportier successor to the former S4 sedan; it features a completely redesigned exterior with an integrated rear liftback, a new 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV plus) powertrain for improved efficiency, and a revolutionary "Digital Stage" interior with a panoramic curved OLED display.

Equipped with the updated 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine and a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, the 2026 Audi S5 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.3 to 4.5 seconds, depending on the body style and testing conditions, assisted by the standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Starting with the 2026 model year, Audi has streamlined the lineup to focus on practicality and market demand, meaning the two-door Coupe and Cabriolet (Convertible) variants have been discontinued, leaving the four-door Sedan and Avant (wagon) as the primary body styles available.

For older generations (B8 and B9), owners frequently report issues such as carbon buildup on the intake valves due to the direct-injection system, water pump and thermostat housing leaks, and occasional PCV valve failures, though the latest 2026 "PPC" platform models aim to address these through updated engine architecture and thermal management.

Maintenance costs for an Audi S5 are typically higher than standard sedans, with an average annual cost between $900 and $1,200, as it requires specialized synthetic oil, high-performance brake components, and specific Quattro system fluid changes; however, the 2026 model often includes "Audi Signature Care" covering scheduled maintenance for the first three years.

The 2026 Audi S5 is EPA-estimated to achieve approximately 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined, though the new 48V mild-hybrid system allows for brief periods of electric-only coasting and smoother stop-start transitions to optimize real-world fuel consumption.

The Audi S5 has not been offered with a manual transmission in the North American market since the 2012 model year, and the current 2026 generation exclusively utilizes a lightning-fast 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission to handle its high torque output.

While the A5 focuses on luxury and efficiency with a 268-hp four-cylinder engine, the S5 is a performance-oriented model that upgrades to a 362-hp V6 turbo engine, larger performance brakes, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, and unique "S" styling elements like quad exhaust outlets.

The "MHEV plus" system in the 2026 S5 uses a powerful electric motor and a small battery pack to assist the engine, allowing the car to perform low-speed maneuvers (like parking) on electric power alone and providing an extra burst of torque while reducing CO2 emissions.

In terms of interior design, the three-screen setup is the most striking feature, comprising an 11.9-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, and an optional 10.9-inch passenger display. All screens run a new operating system based on Android Automotive, with support for wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional 4K integrated instrument cluster.