X

Photos: 2008 Audi S5

With its refined cabin tech, very nice performance, and a beautiful design, the 2008 Audi S5 excels in most areas, only being dragged down by poor mileage.

CNET Reviews staff
32657392-2-440-0.jpg
1 of 20 CNET Networks
Audi launched its A5 and S5 earlier this year in Europe. But in the U.S., it's bringing the S5 in ahead of its more mundane counterpart.
32657392-2-440-FRONT.jpg
2 of 20 CNET Networks
The S5 is the sport-tuned version of the A5, featuring a bigger engine and sport suspension.
32657392-2-440-SS01.jpg
3 of 20 CNET Networks
The S5 uses Audi's new trick, first seen in the R8, of putting a strip of LEDs around the headlight casing to serve as a parking light.
32657392-2-440-DT5.jpg
4 of 20 CNET Networks
The S5 gets pushed along by this 354 horsepower 4.2-liter V-8. It's powerful, but not at all economical.
32657392-2-440-SIDE.jpg
5 of 20 CNET Networks
The exterior design is one of the best we've ever seen. The S5 has the perfect refined coupe look, with its gentle belt-line running the length of the car.
32657392-2-440-SS02.jpg
6 of 20 CNET Networks
The S5 is a 2+2 seater with a trunk instead of a hatchback. Four big exhaust pipes are another performance cue.
32657392-2-440-INTERIOR.jpg
7 of 20 CNET Networks
The switchgear seems of high quality, but we didn't like some of the plastic panels in the center stack and console.
32657392-2-440-DT6.jpg
8 of 20 CNET Networks
With its standard Quattro all-wheel-drive, the S5 sticks to the corners. We experienced no sliding with it, but the body did lean in the corners.
32657392-2-440-SS03.jpg
9 of 20 CNET Networks
A six speed manual is the only transmission choice. The shifter has a longer throw than we would like, but it has a nice, precise feel going into gear. Because of the V-8, Audi's DSG is not an option in this car.
32657392-2-440-SS04.jpg
10 of 20 CNET Networks
The console-mounted MMI controls are just behind the shifter, making them easy to reach while driving.
32657392-2-440-SS05.jpg
11 of 20 CNET Networks
The resolution of the navigation system's maps is very good, as is most of the navigation system.
32657392-2-440-SS06.jpg
12 of 20 CNET Networks
While we found the navigation system very useful, it doesn't break any new ground for Audi. For example, it still has all the standard POI categories, without going to retail shops.
32657392-2-440-SS07.jpg
13 of 20 CNET Networks
This rotary controller can be accessed for satellite radio, CDs, and iPod music, but we found it more of a novelty than of any particular use.
32657392-2-440-SS08.jpg
14 of 20 CNET Networks
The in-dash six disc changer plays MP3 CDs, and song information is shown on the car's LCD.
32657392-2-440-SS09.jpg
15 of 20 CNET Networks
The optional iPod integration includes a cable mounted in the glovebox, with a convenient shelf for an iPod.
32657392-2-440-DT3.jpg
16 of 20 CNET Networks
With an iPod connected, you can access music by artist, album, genre, playlist, or track.
32657392-2-440-SS10.jpg
17 of 20 CNET Networks
The Bang & Olufsen audio system includes a surround setting. GALA controls automatic volume compensation.
32657392-2-440-SS11.jpg
18 of 20 CNET Networks
The audio system uses 14 speakers and a 500 watt amplifier.
32657392-2-440-DT4.jpg
19 of 20 CNET Networks
Audi and BMW offer the best Bluetooth cell phone integration we've seen, with access to cell phone books.
32657392-2-440-SS12.jpg
20 of 20 CNET Networks
Audi's rear view camera is excellent, with lines that curve when you turn the wheel, showing where the car will end up when you reverse.

More Galleries

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
A houseplant

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera

20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
magic-v2-2024-foldable-1383

Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra

10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
Samsung Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum

23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
The Galaxy S24 Ultra in multiple colors

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design

23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
img-0368.jpg

I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites

34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
Invitation for the Apple September iPhone 15 event

17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About

18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?
img-1599-2.jpg

AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?

17 Photos