Today, the Audi S5 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with mild-hybrid assist, not a V8. In its first generation, however, the S5 used a 4.2-liter V8.
Current Audi S5 powertrain
The following points describe the engine and drivetrain that define the modern S5 lineup.
- Engine: 3.0-liter TFSI V6 with 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) support
- Power output: roughly 349 horsepower (varies by market/year) and about 369 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic (Tiptronic)
- Drivetrain: quattro all-wheel drive is standard
- Performance cues: strong mid-range torque and smooth, instantaneous acceleration in everyday driving
In practice, this combination emphasizes a balance of performance and efficiency, with the turbocharged V6 delivering ample power for everyday driving and confident highway overtakes, while the 48-volt system helps with efficiency and smoothness in various driving conditions.
Engine history by generation
Over the S5’s lifetime, Audi shifted from a V8 backbone to a V6-based platform, reflecting broader corporate engine strategies. The following outlines the two main eras.
B8 generation (2007–2012): V8 legacy
- Engine: 4.2-liter FSI V8
- Power output: typically in the low 340s to mid-350s horsepower range, depending on market
- Drivetrain: quattro all-wheel drive with a choice of manual or automatic transmission
The B8 S5 established the model as a high-revving V8 performance coupe and sedan, delivering a distinct V8 character that remained a hallmark of the early S5 lineup in many markets.
B8.5/C8 generation (2013–present in many markets): V6 reimagined
- Engine: 3.0-liter TFSI V6 with turbocharging (and, in later years, mild-hybrid enhancements)
- Power output: typically in the mid-to-high 300s horsepower range, with improvements over model years
- Drivetrain: quattro all-wheel drive with modern automatic transmissions
From the mid-2010s onward, Audi standardized the S5 on a refined V6 platform, prioritizing efficiency and smooth turbocharged performance while retaining strong real-world speed and quattro capability.
Bottom line
In the current era, the Audi S5 is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with mild-hybrid technology, not a V8. The V8 configuration existed only in the S5’s earlier B8 generation, while later versions shifted to the V6 layout with ongoing updates to boost efficiency and performance. Across body styles—Coupe, Sportback, and Cabriolet—the engine choice reflects Audi’s move toward modern turbocharged V6 powerplants with electrified support.
Summary
The Audi S5 has evolved from a V8-powered performance model in its early years to a modern V6 turbocharged platform today. If you’re shopping for a new S5, expect the 3.0-liter V6 with 48-volt mild-hybrid tech as the standard configuration, while older, pre-2012 S5s used the 4.2-liter V8. The current S5 remains a capable, balanced performer with quattro all-wheel drive and contemporary efficiency-focused technology.
Is a V6 just as good as a V8?
V6 engines typically have better fuel economy than a V8, while V8 engines generally have more power than V6 engines. If you're in the market for a vehicle, knowing the differences and advantages of the V6 versus V8 engine can be helpful when you are trying to make a purchase decision.
Ask about result
Is the Audi S5 engine a V6 or V8?
The Audi S5 features a powerful V6 turbocharged engine that delivers stronger acceleration and torque compared to the A5.
Ask about result
Is there an Audi S5 with a V8?
Under the hood, the S5 was equipped with a potent 4.2-liter V8 engine, paired with either a 6-speed manual or six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive system and balanced 50:50 weight distribution underscored Audi's commitment to delivering a dynamic driving experience.
Ask about result
Which is faster, RS5 or S5?
RS5. Gets a twinturbo 2.9 L unit going over the numbers the S5 puts out 349 horsepower and 369 lb feet of torque whereas the RS5. Gets 444 horsepower and 442 lb feet of torque.