Considering 2019 S5 SB

[A4 Joe]

Going to drive one today. Been away from Audi for 4 years. Hoping I like it. 2019 starting to lease well.

[ensorgumbs]

How was it?

[Zed 2.0]

They're terrific all-rounder cars. Not as fast as the new M340 or as raw as the C43 but a much more complete overall package, and more "special" feeling. They seem to be pretty reliable so far as well--some random catastrophic failures in the early cars but there don't seem to be any common issues.

[A4 Joe]

Very impressed with the car. Very quick. Seems more nimble than the 2014 S4 I had. Super solid. Love the Quantum Gray. This is a daily driver for me. Most of my driving is in WLA with significant traffic so way more power than I need. The B9 S5 is more of a luxury car than the B8 S5 I had previously. My current car is a 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia TI which is fun to drive and I love the design. The S5 is a much more sophisticated automobile and feels much more solid feeling. I also like the hatch back as it seems to be more flexible. Still have 6 months on the Giulia but I have had too many issues recently and the lease deal on the S5 seems quite favorable.

[ensorgumbs]

I came from a B8.5 2014 S4 premium plus to a Quantum grey, Black optics prestige 2019 S5 and I do not regret the upgrade. I will say the transmission is a lot smoother in operation so it feels it somewhat less "sporty". Ride quality is vastly improved, so that even in Dynamic mode its muc more tolerable than my nonadjustable B8.5 S4. Like you said it handles well, and feels nimble even though its a bigger car. Overall great car and I hope to keep her for a while!

[B8 S FOR]

What catastrophic failures? Care to elaborate?

[Zed 2.0]

What catastrophic failures? Care to elaborate?

Misc. reports of blown engines and transmissions. Haven't seen anything on here for quite a while though.

[doady22]

The Audi S5 is a very refined. The Merc C43 has a little more rawness from the exhaust note, and the new BMW 3 series has the edge in power. For me the looks of the S5 won it over for me! I’m very happy with my decision, I can always add an exhaust, and now a proper tune to get the best of all worlds, at the end of the day you can’t add the refinement the S5 has, (at least for me)

[wwhan]

Misc. reports of blown engines and transmissions. Haven't seen anything on here for quite a while though.

2.9T engine failures, what build dates?

[Zed 2.0]

2.9T engine failures, what build dates?

Nobody in here talking about the RS5

[wwhan]

Nobody in here talking about the RS5

Failures on B9 3.0T ?

There were a few B8 S4 3.0T failures early on on at 1200 miles or less.

[A4 Joe]

I came from a B8.5 2014 S4 premium plus to a Quantum grey, Black optics prestige 2019 S5 and I do not regret the upgrade. I will say the transmission is a lot smoother in operation so it feels l somewhat less "sporty". Ride quality is vastly improved so that even in Dynamic mode its more tolerable thanmy nonadjustable B8.5 S4. Like you said its handles well, feels nimble even though its a bugger car. Overall great car and I hope to keep her for a while!

Had the same car in 2014 as you. You are right about the upgrades. Tranny is really smooth. I have only had the car for a few days and now I am traveling for a few days. Trying to take it slow for now and get the feel for the car. Overall it is a great car.

[B8 S FOR]

Wow! Well glad to hear nothing happening lately.

[TD Pcar]

We have twins! Great car, constantly get “nice car” compliments. It is my first car with Alcantara seats and I absolutely love them.

[RacrX]

I've been test driving a new SB for a few days, I can't decide. I have a 2013 Stage 2 S4 and it's a lot of fun to drive, the B9 SB seems a little more dumb. It is a heck of a lot more refined though, there's a lot to like about it.

[AudiS4SD]

I love the SB, but is there a huge advantage getting the RS5 over the S5? The cost difference is fairly large, but I do love the appearances that the RS5 provides. Otherwise, what else differentiates these two vehicles, exactly?

[RacrX]

I love the SB, but is there a huge advantage getting the RS5 over the S5? The cost difference is fairly large, but I do love the appearances that the RS5 provides. Otherwise, what else differentiates these two vehicles, exactly?

Performance. Twin turbo vs single turbo, more aggressive suspension, some cosmetic upgrades like grill and exhaust tips.

For the price difference, I think the S is a much better buy. Get a tune and an RS grill and the gap closes significantly, IMO.

[wwhan]

I love the SB, but is there a huge advantage getting the RS5 over the S5? The cost difference is fairly large, but I do love the appearances that the RS5 provides. Otherwise, what else differentiates these two vehicles, exactly?

I could have bought an S4 or S5 Sportback, but instead I bought the RS5 specifically for the twin turbo 2.9T engine. I wanted a vehicle that would reasonable stock power.

[Desert Dead]

Performance. Twin turbo vs single turbo, more aggressive suspension, some cosmetic upgrades like grill and exhaust tips.

For the price difference, I think the S is a much better buy. Get a tune and an RS grill and the gap closes significantly, IMO.

Not that I have any illusions about it being the same car, but this was my logic for getting an A5/sport package/prestige/s line vs. an S5. Going to connect the JB1, get a new grill, and drop it a bit and I’ll be on my way.

If money was not a factor, I would drive an RS5, too.


***Did you get the S5, Joe?***

[davewg]

For the price difference, I think the S is a much better buy. Get a tune and an RS grill and the gap closes significantly, IMO.

I think a lot of the reviews agree with this. The S5 seems to be the sweet spot in the lineup, but.....

Not that I have any illusions about it being the same car, but this was my logic for getting an A5/sport package/prestige/s line vs. an S5. Going to connect the JB1, get a new grill, and drop it a bit and I’ll be on my way.

This is the route I went. Planning a JB4, a rear sway bar, some spacers, a few cosmetic mods, and done.

[EuroB6]

The S5 is a perfect daily car. It's not too aggressive, and not boring ,just right. If you want some more edge, just get the RS5.

[A4 Joe]

Not that I have any illusions about it being the same car, but this was my logic for getting an A5/sport package/prestige/s line vs. an S5. Going to connect the JB1, get a new grill, and drop it a bit and I’ll be on my way.

If money was not a factor, I would drive an RS5, too.


***Did you get the S5, Joe?***

Yes. Love the car. Very happy I made the move.

[RacrX]

I test drove one again yesterday, for some reason the cockpit seems very tight up front between the slope of the windshield and the proximity to the passenger- at least compared to my B8 S4. Anyone else notice this?

[A4 Joe]

Have not been conscience of this. Car interior feels more generous than the S4’s I had previously. Coming from Alfa Giulia the S5 SB feels large.

[Lord XL]

One other thing to note regarding the S5 vs RS5 is that the former auto upshifts for you even in manual mode. Coming from a manual car previously it's a sore spot for me as I can't push it to it's limits until top gear. In every other way I love my S5 except for that and will look at an RS5 next if I stay with Audi. Someone more educated than me can tell you if that behavior can be modded or programmed.

[AudiS4SD]

Bump.

So, I found a gorgeous RS5 in the area. However, I'm not sure what packages are worth getting or not.

This particular one has the Black Optic, Fine Nappa, and Bang/Olufsen packages. Nothing else.

Is there any other package I should be considering?

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[wwhan]

Bump.

So, I found a gorgeous RS5 in the area. However, I'm not sure what packages are worth getting or not.

This particular one has the Black Optic, Fine Nappa, and Bang/Olufsen packages. Nothing else.

Is there any other package I should be considering? ....

Driver Assistance package

I also have the sport package, but maybe that is not needed

[AudiS4SD]

Driver Assistance package

I also have the sport package, but maybe that is not needed

Thanks. What about the Dynamic package and/or sport diff ? Is that standard now?

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[wwhan]

Thanks. What about the Dynamic package and/or sport diff ? Is that standard now?
....

The Sport Differential is std on 2019 RS5

Dynamic package is a $3350 option.

Red brake calipers
RS sport exhaust system with black tips
RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)

See page 44: https://www.audiworld.com/forums/att...-10.15.18-.pdf

[AudiS4SD]

The Sport Differential is std on 2019 RS5

Dynamic package is a $3350 option.

Red brake calipers
RS sport exhaust system with black tips
RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC)

See page 44: https://www.audiworld.com/forums/att...-10.15.18-.pdf

Great thanks! The car I found doesn't have this or the Driver Assistsnce, but I actually prefer a "normal" cruise control. Though a HUD would be nice.

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[303 Spartan]

Great thanks! The car I found doesn't have this or the Driver Assistsnce, but I actually prefer a "normal" cruise control. Though a HUD would be nice.

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I have an RS5 with the specs of the one you are looking at. (Black Optic / Fine Nappa / Bang & Olufsen).

As wwhan mentioned, Sport Diff is a must have and is standard in the RS5. The Dynamic Package is a 'necessity' for some, 'nice to have' for others, and a 'must avoid' for few (like myself). I hated the dynamic suspension on my B8.5 S4 and said I'd never do that again. It's a shame that they bucket HUD and black exhaust tips in that package, though.

I will say that I do wish I held out for one with the "RS Driver Assistance Package". HUD would be nice and the top view 360 camera would have been fantastic. My wife's CX-5 Signature has the 360 camera and I use it all the time. It makes parallel parking 10x easier and more consistent.

Post a link to the car you're looking at. I'm curious to take a look. If you're worried about bringing more attention to it, before you pull the trigger, feel free to PM it to me instead.

[AudiS4SD]

I have an RS5 with the specs of the one you are looking at. (Black Optic / Fine Nappa / Bang & Olufsen).

As wwhan mentioned, Sport Diff is a must have and is standard in the RS5. The Dynamic Package is a 'necessity' for some, 'nice to have' for others, and a 'must avoid' for few (like myself). I hated the dynamic suspension on my B8.5 S4 and said I'd never do that again. It's a shame that they bucket HUD and black exhaust tips in that package, though.

I will say that I do wish I held out for one with the "RS Driver Assistance Package". HUD would be nice and the top view 360 camera would have been fantastic. My wife's CX-5 Signature has the 360 camera and I use it all the time. It makes parallel parking 10x easier and more consistent.

Post a link to the car you're looking at. I'm curious to take a look. If you're worried about bringing more attention to it, before you pull the trigger, feel free to PM it to me instead.

PM sent.

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[AudiS4SD]

What are everyone's thoughts on lease vs. finance? Or, lease then purchase?

Looking at an RS5 now (current MSRP $72k). Financing is over $1000/month, but a 36-month lease @ 15k miles/year is only $630/year. (This includes my S4 trade-in + money down to equate ~ $20k).

1. I know generally leases are frowned upon, but how many of you bought at the end of a lease (or is that even worth it)? Maybe the current national/worldwide situation will yield better rates?
2. Can you negotiate the sale price more/less easily if you want a lease vs. purchase/finance?
3. If you start with a lease and then, 1 year later, you just want to buy the car -- is that possible or do you have to complete the lease contract first?
4. Are leases just a waste of money?

[Zed 2.0]

Don't put $20k down on a lease...

[AudiS4SD]

Don't put $20k down on a lease...

Noted, but wouldn't that help if you wanted to finance the remaining balance at the end of lease terms (if you wanted to buy after)?

(Just asking to get all the pros/cons).

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[DCB1951]

What are everyone's thoughts on lease vs. finance? Or, lease then purchase?

Looking at an RS5 now (current MSRP $72k). Financing is over $1000/month, but a 36-month lease @ 15k miles/year is only $630/year. (This includes my S4 trade-in + money down to equate ~ $20k).

1. I know generally leases are frowned upon, but how many of you bought at the end of a lease (or is that even worth it)? Maybe the current national/worldwide situation will yield better rates?
2. Can you negotiate the sale price more/less easily if you want a lease vs. purchase/finance?
3. If you start with a lease and then, 1 year later, you just want to buy the car -- is that possible or do you have to complete the lease contract first?
4. Are leases just a waste of money?

I have never been afraid to lease. I am currently leasing my RS5-SB since Feb 2019 on a 3-year lease. I traded in a 1999 Porsche Carrera Cabriolet (got a fair price from the dealer) plus some cash and got a lease with an excessive annual mileage allowance (I'm currently driving a lot less than I expected, thought that may change post-quarantine). My car had every single option I wanted (and I wanted a lot) plus a few extras that I didn't want (but have grown to appreciate), so my MSRP was much higher than yours. Because I got it early in the model cycle, I didn't get much of a discount (5%). That being said, over five years I had squirreled away a lot of money in a separate account to pay for an exotic car, so my tolerance for big lease payments was unusually high.

The primary reason I leased instead of bought is with the rapid emergence of EVs and Audi's focus on transferring from internal combustion to EV, I wanted to be able to walk away at the end of three years into an Audi performance EV if they existed at the time. It looks like they might. If in Feb 2022 I don't like what the EV options are, I'm sure I can extend/renegotiate the lease or even buy the car at a steep discount, seeing how fast the MSRPs are already dropping.

In short, the rule of thumb is if you plan to keep the car for three years or less, lease; otherwise buy.

P.S. I highly recommend the Android app Car Finance BOSS and LeaseGuide.com for very useful explanations and assistance in getting the best possible lease from a dealer.

[Ycore]

Putting *any* money down on a lease is dumb because if you total the car it's considered a wash. Insurance company writes a check to your dealer and you walk away empty handed. Put 5K down on a lease, total the car in a year, and you just lost that 5k and the car. Down payments on lease are not a down payment towards equity in the vehicle, it just reduces your payments.

[Kirkz24]

I test drove the S5 Coupe a few weeks ago.... just 1 day before this whole pandemic started! So i have put that project on ice until we all come out of this!

I however am looking at purchasing a CPO... Its hard to find a CPO with all the specific options I want. As of now there are 2 for sale locally, one with the Red interior and the other with the Black.
I was leaning more towards wanting the red but it has 39,000 KM more on the clock (24,00 Miles) than the one with black interior and that's bothersome for me!

How ever...... I totally fell in love with the S5 the first test drive!

[wwhan]

If buy a used car, consider reviewing this video: "How to Properly Clean & Disinfect Germs Bacteria from Car Interior":

[Davnymt28]

Going to drive one today. Been away from Audi for 4 years. Hoping I like it. 2019 starting to lease well.

I picked up mine last week and so far I am loving it. The only minor complain i have is the steering in dynamic mode, it's not as "tight"(lack of better word)" as BMW