The short answer is no. The 2018 Audi S5 is not a supercharged vehicle, nor is it a supercar. It is a luxury sport coupe powered by a turbocharged V6 engine. Misconceptions often linger because previous generations of Audi's S4 and S5 models relied heavily on a supercharged 3.0-liter V6. When Audi completely redesigned the platform for the 2018 model year, they swapped that mechanical supercharger for a twin-scroll turbocharger. Despite sprinting from zero to 60 miles per hour in roughly 4.4 to 4.7 seconds, it sits squarely in the executive commuter and high-performance grand touring segment rather than the exotic supercar tier.
Clearing up the mechanical identity of this car requires looking closely at what changed underneath the aluminum hood, how it drives on real roads, and why the "supercar" label doesn't quite fit a refined daily driver.
Engine Evolution: Turbo vs. Supercharged
To understand the confusion, look backward. From 2010 through 2017, Audi used a 3.0-liter V6 engine bolted to an Eaton roots-type supercharger in cars like the B8/B8.5 S4 and S5. That setup delivered instant, linear throttle response because the blower spun directly off the crankshaft. Enthusiasts loved it for its tuning headroom and mechanical whine.
For the 2018 model year, Audi introduced the B9 generation with an entirely new EA839 3.0-liter turbocharged V6.
- Forced Induction Shift: Audi moved away from belt-driven boost in favor of a hot-V layout, tucking a twin-scroll turbocharger directly inside the "V" of the cylinder blocks.
- Power Output: This engine pumps out 354 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.
- Delivery: Torque peaks at an ultra-low 1,370 rpm and holds flat all the way up to 4,500 rpm, masking any traditional turbo lag.
Because the previous generation was famously supercharged, many buyers shopping on the used market assume the 2018 model shares that same powertrain. It doesn't. It is turbocharged, cleaner-burning, and paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission instead of the older dual-clutch setup.
Why the S5 Is Not a Supercar
Calling the 2018 Audi S5 a supercar stretches the definition of automotive categories past its breaking point. Supercars are low-slung, ultra-high-performance machines built primarily for extreme track capability, exotic styling, and uncompromising speed. Think mid-engine layouts, carbon-fiber tubs, and six-figure maintenance bills.
The S5 shares its architecture with a sensible executive platform. It's built for commuting, highway cruising, and carrying golf clubs in the trunk of the Sportback variant.
- Weight and Balance: Tip the scales and you will find a curb weight hovering around 3,850 pounds. Supercars prioritize shedding every unnecessary ounce; the S5 prioritizes sound-deadening acoustic glass, power massaging seats, and a quiet cabin.
- Layout: The engine sits longitudinally up front, driving all four wheels via Audi's legendary Quattro system. While Quattro provides unmatched all-weather grip, it introduces front-end weight bias that prevents the razor-edge rotation typical of rear-biased mid-engine supercars.
- Top Speed: Electronically governed at 155 miles per hour, the S5 runs out of breath where true supercars are just shifting into fifth gear.
It is undeniably fast. It out-accelerates many older sports cars from a stoplight, but straight-line pace alone does not turn a luxury coupe into a supercar.
Real-World Performance and Driving Dynamics
On a twisty backroad, the 2018 Audi S5 behaves less like an exotic toy and more like an elite weaponized commuter. The steering is light and direct, though critics often note a lack of raw mechanical feedback through the steering wheel rim.
The adaptive dampers soak up broken pavement with composure. Switch the drive select mode into Dynamic, and the suspension firms up, the transmission holds gears longer, and the exhaust lets out a sharp DSG-style pop on upshifts. It inspires immense confidence. You can drive it aggressively through a mountain pass in a downpour, and the Quattro system will pull you through cleanly without demanding professional racing credentials.
Fuel economy is another hint at its practical nature. On long highway stretches, it easily clears 25 miles per gallon, a metric foreign to true supercars.
Common Mistakes Used Car Buyers Make
Shoppers transitioning into a pre-owned 2018 model often stumble over a few recurring pitfalls:
- Confusing Trim Bodystyles: The S5 comes in three distinct flavors: Coupe, Cabriolet, and the four-door Sportback. The Sportback commands higher resale values due to its daily usability.
- Ignoring Maintenance Intervals: The EA839 turbo engine is robust, but it demands precise oil change intervals. Neglecting routine services can lead to premature timing chain wear or turbo actuator issues.
- Expecting Manual Shifting: Audi dropped the manual transmission for this generation. If you want a stick-shift S5, you have to look at 2017 and older models.
For deeper technical specifications, you can review the official documentation on the Audi Media Center. To evaluate how it stacks up against period rivals, check out automotive analyses on Car and Driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Audi S5 reliable?
Generally, yes. The engine and transmission are robust when properly maintained. However, electronic gremlins related to the MMI infotainment screen and minor coolant control valve leaks are known items to check during a pre-purchase inspection.
Does the 2018 Audi S5 have launch control?
Yes. Engaging dynamic mode, turning off traction control, holding the brake firmly, and flooring the throttle activates launch control, allowing the car to execute repeatable, hard-launching sprints.
Can the turbocharged engine be easily tuned?
Because it is turbocharged rather than supercharged, squeezing extra power out of the engine is straightforward. Simple software ECU flashes (Stage 1 tunes) can push horsepower well past the 400 mark without changing physical hardware.
Is the Sportback practical for daily use?
Extremely. The hatchback design provides a massive opening and deep cargo space, making it vastly more versatile than a traditional two-door coupe while maintaining a sleek, aggressive roofline.
