2011 Audi S5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2011 Audi S5 is a light-update year. The main change is a standard auto-dimming interior mirror with compass on Premium Plus models; the coupe and Cabriolet otherwise carry over.
About the 2011 Audi S5
First-generation S5 (B8/8T), pre-refresh; fourth U.S. model year for the coupe and second for the Cabriolet.
Audi positioned the S5 as a four-seat luxury grand tourer combining dramatic two-door styling, strong acceleration, a driver-focused leather cabin, and permanent quattro AWD. Its key distinction was balance: more comfort and everyday usability than a narrowly focused sports car, but more power and handling emphasis than the A5. The coupe emphasized V8 character, while the Cabriolet delivered similar performance through a supercharged V6 and dual-clutch transmission.
The S5 coupe is a V8-powered luxury grand tourer with permanent AWD, heated leather sport seats, and a sport suspension. The Cabriolet pairs a 333-hp supercharged V6 with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, while the coupe uses a 354-hp 4.2-liter V8 with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
What changed, by category
2011 Audi S5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.2 Liter | V6, Supercharged, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd Tiptronic | Auto, 7-Spd S tronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 354 hp | 333 hp |
| Torque | 325 lb-ft | 325 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10.2 cu-ft | 12.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.7 in | 31.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Hill Start Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Audi S5 redesigned?
No. The 2011 S5 remains part of the first generation before its later refresh, with no major styling, structural, powertrain, or safety-system overhaul.
What is the main change to the 2011 Audi S5?
The main change is a standard auto-dimming interior mirror with compass on Premium Plus models. The rest of the coupe and Cabriolet largely carries over from 2010.
Were the 2011 Audi S5 trim names changed?
Yes. The 2010 3.0T Quattro and Quattro trims continued for 2011 under the 3.0T Quattro Premium Plus and Quattro Premium Plus names, respectively.
Does the 2011 Audi S5 coupe still have a V8?
Yes. The 2011 S5 coupe retains its 354-hp 4.2-liter V8 and was built with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Do the 2011 S5 coupe and Cabriolet use the same engine?
No. The coupe uses a 354-hp 4.2-liter V8, while the Cabriolet uses a 333-hp supercharged 3.0-liter V6 paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Both have permanent AWD.