Currently reading: Audi S5 switches to 345bhp mild-hybrid diesel

New engine, shared with recently launched S6 and S7 models, offers more torque and better fuel economy

The Audi S5 will switch from a turbocharged V6 petrol engine to a 345bhp mild-hybrid V6 diesel.

The powertrain, which will be used in both the coupe and Sportback versions of the S5, is the same as that introduced on the latest S6 and S7 models. It combines a 3.0-litre TDI diesel with a 48V mild-hybrid system and electrically-powered compressor, and produces 516lb ft of torque between 2500 and 3100rpm.

The diesel engine allows the S5 coupe to achieve 0-62mph in 4.8secs, the five-door Sportback version being 0.1secs slower. Both models are electronically limited to 155mph.

The 3.0-litre petrol V6 previously used in the S5 had a slightly greater output with 349bhp, although, at 369lb ft, it produced significantly less torque. Audi also claims the new unit consumes 19 per cent less fuel than the previous petrol version, at a claimed 45.56 mpg. That figure was calculated on the NEDC test cycle, derived from WLTP values.

The S5 retains an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox, along with permanent all-wheel-drive and a self-locking centre differential.

The TDI-powered S5 will go on sale in Europe in May, with a starting price in Germany of €65,300 (£56,590). UK pricing has not yet been set.

The 3.0-litre TFSI petrol engine will continue to be offered in the S5 in some markets outside of Europe.

Read more

Audi S6 and S7 gain new mild-hybrid diesel powertrain

Audi S5 review

Used buying guide: Audi RS5

Advertisement

Read our review

Car review

Audi’s second-fiddle sports coupé moves to a turbo V6, but faces an increased challenge from more dynamic rivals like the BMW M4

James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

Join the debate

Comments
7
Add a comment…
Gfos 17 April 2019

Emmissions???

I'm not automatically against diesel, but surely there is only a future for it if the emmisions of particulates and NOx are very low - equivalent to petrol at least. Any article on a new diesel form VAG group should surely have this at the top of the agenda?

hatchet 17 April 2019

Gfos wrote:

Gfos wrote:

I'm not automatically against diesel, but surely there is only a future for it if the emmisions of particulates and NOx are very low - equivalent to petrol at least. Any article on a new diesel form VAG group should surely have this at the top of the agenda?

The most recent diesels coming from Germany have been just as clean (and in some cases cleaner) than current petrols.
Mercedes recently had one of their diesels independently tested (I think it was the 3ltr) and it was producing zero Nox.
I for one think this is a smart move from Audi. They'll finally have a direct competitor for the 435d 540d 640d etc. And they seem to sell well. And anyone that wants a fast petrol Audi, well they'll still have the RS models.

Gfos 18 April 2019

hatchet wrote:

hatchet wrote:
Gfos wrote:

I'm not automatically against diesel, but surely there is only a future for it if the emmisions of particulates and NOx are very low - equivalent to petrol at least. Any article on a new diesel form VAG group should surely have this at the top of the agenda?

The most recent diesels coming from Germany have been just as clean (and in some cases cleaner) than current petrols.
Mercedes recently had one of their diesels independently tested (I think it was the 3ltr) and it was producing zero Nox.
I for one think this is a smart move from Audi. They'll finally have a direct competitor for the 435d 540d 640d etc. And they seem to sell well. And anyone that wants a fast petrol Audi, well they'll still have the RS models.

I suspect it may be technically achievable, but from the brand that brought us dieselgate, reassurances about emissions are highly conspicuous by their absence! The car will drive nice I'm sure, potent diesel + auto + AWD is a nice way to get around - I have a 335d! But I wouldn't get another or similar unless I was 100% happy with emissions. Maybe a volvo v60 t8 instead.....

madmac 17 April 2019

The new S6/7 in Canada has

The new S6/7 in Canada has the 2.9 V6 from the RS4/5 which is MUCH better than a stinky diesel! No matter what torque and mpg it has! I agree this is a F****** Stupid move by Audi.

Merlot 17 April 2019

Strange

I was hoping that rumours of the S series Audi’s going diesel was a joke but clearly not. Amazingly bad timing. Had five of them over the years, will not make it to six.