Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Audi S5
The 2016 Audi S5 is a coupe that earns a Carivo score of 7.5/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 8.7/10, while Value at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 6.5/10 for reliability, this coupe trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 8.0/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.7/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining coupes to actually drive. On technology it rates 8.4/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $42,864–$56,355, 16 MPG, seating 4, the Audi S5 sits in the mid-market bracket of the coupe segment. The value score of 6.5/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2016 Audi S5 will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on reliability and value if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good coupe should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Coupes
The 2016 Audi S5 ranks #60 of 110 coupes in the Carivo database — better than 46% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $42,864 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $47,314 by about 9%.
Across the S5 model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Fuel economy at 16 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2016 Audi S5
Is the 2016 Audi S5 reliable?
We rate the 2016 Audi S5's reliability 6.5/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2016 Audi S5 worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #60 of 110 coupes in our database (better than 46% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2016 Audi S5 cost?
The 2016 Audi S5 starts at $42,864 and ranges up to $56,355 across trims (MSRP when new). At 16 MPG, expect roughly $3,281/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Audi S5
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More Audi Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Audi models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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