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2017 Audi S5 Coupe and S4 Sedan Subjected to Acceleration Test

We really didn't expect to see acceleration tests with the all-new Audi S5 coupe. After all, it's only been a few weeks since its debut. But we found one and luck would have it another S4 sedan launch video was right next to it in our Youtube subscription feed.
2017 Audi S5 Coupe and S4 Sedan Subjected to Acceleration Test 1 photo
Photo: screenshot from Youtube
For the Audi fans, the most interesting thing going on is that the S4 and S5 have a weird sort of launch control. You see, both models are equipped with the same 8-speed conventional automatic gearbox from ZF.

Instead of a crazy clutch dump at 4k, like you get in the RS3, the S4 and S5 take a more gentle jog in 1st gear. After that, they quickly pick up the pace and barely require the third cog to go beyond 100 km/h.

Of course, the big story here is the all-new engine. Instead of a supercharged V6, Audi used a turbocharged 3-liter one with slightly more power. Compared to the all-new Mercedes-AMG C43, this unit is more flexible yet less enjoyable to listen to.

The quiet way in which the new S models launch is sure to be a problem for some people. Looking at the videos, we'd say they don't sound very good either, but folks assure us they are much better in person. Which is not to say that they are slow. The S4 sedan does 0 to 62 in 4.7 seconds, which is as fast as the old RS4.

If you wanted an upmarket interior, space, and pace, an Audi S4 is a good place to look. However, Jaguar's brand new XE does all of the same stuff with a similar gearbox and a supercharged V6. BMW's 340i and 340d models are fast, but we consider the C43 to be the current king of the fast-ish executive car market.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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