The Audi S5 Sportback (F5, facelift) equipped with the 3.0 TDI V6 engine producing 347 horsepower and paired with a tiptronic automatic transmission, represents a compelling blend of performance and efficiency within the Audi Sportback lineup. Introduced in December 2019 and produced through June 2020, this variant occupied a premium position, offering a significant step up in power and refinement compared to the lower-trim S5 models. It’s built on the F5 platform, a derivative of the MLB Evo architecture shared with other Audi and Volkswagen group vehicles, and aimed at buyers seeking a sporty, practical, and technologically advanced grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | S5 |
| Generation | S5 Sportback (F5, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (347 Hp) Mild Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | December, 2019 |
| End of production | June, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5-5.6 l/100 km (42.8 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-6.2 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 160-162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm |
| Net battery capacity | 0.5 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 10 kg (22.05 lbs) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 8 kW |
| Power | 347 Hp @ 3850 rpm |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 2500-3100 rpm (516.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA897evo2 / DEWB |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger and Electric Powered Compressor, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2380 kg (5247 lbs) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load (brakes 12%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load (no brakes) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs) |
| Length | 4757 mm (187.28 in.) |
| Width | 1843 mm (72.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm (111.22 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft) |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the S5 Sportback 3.0 TDI lies the EA897evo2 engine, a 3.0-liter V6 diesel. This engine benefits from a sophisticated turbocharging system, incorporating both a conventional turbocharger and an electric powered compressor (EPC). The EPC helps to eliminate turbo lag, providing near-instantaneous boost at low engine speeds, enhancing responsiveness. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The 48V mild-hybrid system adds a belt-driven starter-generator, enabling features like extended start-stop operation, coasting with engine off, and a small amount of regenerative braking. This system contributes to improved fuel efficiency. The tiptronic eight-speed automatic transmission is specifically tuned for this engine, offering smooth and quick shifts. It features adaptive shift programs that adjust to the driver’s style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 347 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.0 TDI engine, combined with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, result in impressive performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 4.7 seconds. The mild-hybrid system and eight-speed transmission work in harmony to provide a broad torque curve, making the S5 Sportback feel effortless in everyday driving situations. Compared to the base S5 models with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, this variant offers a significantly more refined and powerful driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-performance RS 5, the 3.0 TDI strikes a good balance between performance and comfort. The tiptronic transmission, while smooth, doesn’t offer the same level of engagement as a dual-clutch transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The S5 Sportback 3.0 TDI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, and a premium sound system. Exterior features included S-specific styling cues, such as a unique grille, bumpers, and exhaust outlets. Optional extras included adaptive suspension, a head-up display, and various driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior trim options allowed for personalization, with choices in wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber accents.
Chassis & Braking
The S5 Sportback features a sophisticated chassis designed to deliver a comfortable yet engaging driving experience. It utilizes an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling precision. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system is integrated with the quattro all-wheel drive system to enhance stability and traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi S5 Sportback 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined ride, and practical fastback body style. Compared to the gasoline-powered S5 variants, the TDI offered superior fuel economy and torque. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine lacked the aural excitement of the gasoline engines. Against competitors like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the S5 Sportback offered a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and technology.
Legacy
The EA897evo2 engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant. The 3.0 TDI variant, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. The mild-hybrid system, while relatively simple, has also demonstrated good reliability. On the used car market, the S5 Sportback 3.0 TDI remains a desirable option for buyers seeking a sporty and efficient grand tourer. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and AdBlue refills, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of this powertrain.
