The 2018 Audi S5 represents the pinnacle of accessible luxury sports coupé driving, wrapping a meticulously crafted interior in a package that feels as special as its turbocharged inline-five engine suggests. From the moment you approach the door, the presence of the vehicle is confirmed by the subtle weight of the doors and the satisfying tactile response of the cabin controls. This specific year strikes an ideal balance between the classic S5 experience and the technological expectations of the modern driver, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and refinement that is difficult to ignore for enthusiasts and discerning buyers alike.
Design and Material Quality: A Sanctuary of Luxury
Step inside the 2018 Audi S5, and you are greeted by an interior that prioritizes both aesthetics and function. The cabin is a masterclass in premium material usage, moving beyond the soft-touch plastics of lesser vehicles. Surfaces are adorned with either the standard Piano Black trim or, depending on the specific package, the more dramatic Piano Black Satin or the elegant Open Pore Oak wood veneers. The contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel is not merely decorative; it adds a layer of visual depth and reinforces the meticulous attention to detail that Audi is known for throughout the cabin.
Seating Comfort and Ergonomics
Sitting in the S5’s supportive bucket seats is an experience defined by structure and comfort. The seats, bolstered on the sides, provide exceptional lateral support during spirited driving, holding you firmly in place through fast corners. For the 2018 model year, Audi enhanced the comfort factor with improved seat cushioning, ensuring that the S5 remains a viable daily driver without sacrificing its sporty character. The ergonomics are intuitive, with the driver’s seat offering extensive memory settings that perfectly position the steering wheel, seat, and mirrors for your ideal driving position, reducing fatigue on long journeys.
The Center Console and Driver Interface
The heart of the S5’s interior is the driver-focused center console, a harmonious arrangement of technology and classic design. The Audi MMI interface, housed within a beautifully finished aluminum panel, serves as the command center for the car’s infotainment, navigation, and climate controls. The highlight is the large, backlit rotary knob flanked by two function buttons, providing a precise and satisfying method of control that remains more tactile than many modern touchscreens. Flanking this is the driving mode selector, allowing you to instantly switch between Comfort, Dynamic, and Individual settings to tailor the car’s behavior to the road ahead.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Audi equips the 2018 S5 with its then-current MMI Navigation Plus system, which features a high-resolution 8-inch touchscreen display. This interface provides clear graphics and responsive menus for managing the satellite navigation, audio system, and vehicle settings. Apple CarPlay integration was becoming more prevalent around this model year, offering a seamless and familiar smartphone connection that keeps you connected to your apps and navigation using the familiar interface of your iPhone. The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System is an available upgrade that transforms the cabin into a concert hall, delivering an immersive and crystal-clear audio experience that complements the refined driving dynamics.
Materials, Lighting, and Attention to Detail
The quality of materials extends to every visible surface in the 2018 S5. The dashboard, doors, and center console are wrapped in soft-touch plastics that feel substantial and well-made, while the leather upholstery is supple and durable. The available ambient lighting is a standout feature, casting a gentle glow across the cabin in a choice of colors. This isn't just for show; it significantly enhances the atmosphere, creating a sophisticated and welcoming environment long before the engine is started. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in the stitching on the headliner, the finish on the paddle shifters, and even the way the door sills are engraved with the S5 branding.
