The 2016 Audi S5 represents a significant moment in the brand’s performance coupe lineage, blending aggressive design with a refined yet engaging driving experience. Understanding the 2016 Audi S5 0-60 mph time requires looking at the specific powertrain, as this year marked a transition between generations. This model year sits at the end of the B8 platform’s life, offering a naturally aspirated version of the familiar 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that enthusiasts would later see replaced in the B9 generation.
2016 Audi S5 Powertrain Specifications
Under the hood, the 2016 Audi S5 is equipped with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, a departure from the turbocharged variants found in other models in the lineup. This naturally aspirated approach was designed to deliver a more linear power band and a distinct soundtrack that Audi aficionados appreciate. The engine produces 349 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels via an available 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. This specific configuration is key when analyzing the 2016 Audi S5 0-60 performance metrics, as the supercharger provides immediate boost rather than waiting for exhaust gases to spool.
Official Performance Data and 0-60 mph Testing
Audi’s official figures for the 2016 S5 coupe list a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. While this number might seem modest compared to modern performance cars, it was competitive within its segment during its production run. Independent testing outlets often corroborated this, with variations typically falling between 4.7 and 5.1 seconds depending on road conditions, tire temperature, and the specific sample tested. The relatively heavy curb weight of the S5, approaching 3,900 pounds, plays a significant role in these results, as the power-to-weight ratio is not as favorable as one might expect from a "S" model badge.
Factors Influencing the 0-60 Time
Drivetrain Loss: The Quattro all-wheel-drive system, while excellent in wet or slippery conditions, introduces parasitic loss that robs some of the engine's power before it reaches the wheels.
Transmission Calibration: The S tronic gearbox prioritizes efficiency and shifts that preserve the supercharged V6's character, which can slightly delay full-throttle acceleration compared to a manual setup.
Tire Compound: The standard all-season tires provide comfort and longevity but lack the high-grip compound needed for optimal launch performance in a 4.9-second sprint.
Driving Dynamics Beyond the Numbers
While the 2016 Audi S5 0-60 stat is a useful data point, it only tells a small part of the story. The true nature of this car is revealed on winding roads where the steering feels more connected than in the base Q5, and the exhaust note—a low mechanical whine from the supercharger combined with the V6 burble—creates an intoxicating cabin experience. The ride is firm but controlled, and the cabin remains a sanctuary of build quality, with leather, aluminum, and wood accents surrounding the driver.
