Audi S5

For 2017, the Audi A5 and S5 receive a number of minor upgrades. Automatic-equipped A5 Sport models receive a flat-bottom steering wheel, while front and rear acoustic parking sensors are made standard. A new Convenience package adds heated seats with driver’s memory, Audi advance key and auto-dimming exterior mirrors.

The powerful Audi RS 5 disappears this year to make way for the new A4 sedan on the production line. Other changes include a standard S line exterior treatment on all A5 models, a new Misano Red pearl paint, and Premium Plus models get a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The 2015 Audi A5 and S5 get numerous small changes throughout, including new wheels, new colors and rearranged option packages. Among the changes, Premium Plus models get the S Line exterior upgrades standard, and the High Gloss Black package is now the Sport Plus.

The biggest change for the 2014 A5 is an upgrade in the output of the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine to 220 horsepower. Other changes are in the areas of enhancements to packages and standard-equipment lists and the inclusions of some items that were previously optional being made standard.

For 2013, the A5 and S5 receive a revised grille, bumper and headlight treatment as well as the addition of Audi Connect on models equipped with MMI and navigation. The S5 get a new supercharged 3.0-liter V6, while last year's 4.2-liter V8 migrates to the all-new RS 5.

Audi has differentiated the 2012 A5 Cabriolet from its Coupe sibling with a new 18-inch, 15-spoke wheel design. There's an 18-inch, 10-spoke V-design wheel on the Coupe, while new S line trim options add a sportier appearance and nicer interior details.

For 2011, there are new wheel designs, tweaks in interior trim, and a new Titanium Sport Package available with Premium Plus and Prestige models.

Two new option packages are added for 2010: The Drive Select package , which comes with the new Sports Rear Differential, and the Prestige package.

Most of the S5's changes for 2009 reside within the optional equipment list. The S5 can now be equipped with Audi side assist, voice control for the navigation, Adaptive Cruise Control and the Drive Select Package, which adds Adaptive Suspension and Dynamic Steering.

For years, German rivals BMW and Mercedes-Benz have competed for dominance in this category, while Audi sat on the sidelines watching. The 2008 Audi S5 shows that being a late bloomer isn't necessarily a bad thing. The S5 will offer a unique alternative to the German competition, being the only car in the class to offer all-wheel drive combined with a six-speed manual transmission.