Audi S5 vs BMW M340i: Performance & Tech Deep Dive

Does the New Audi S5 Finally Challenge the BMW M340i?

After hundreds of miles across Welsh backroads and accidental track encounters, the 2024 Audi S5 reveals a surprising identity crisis. Audi loyalists lament lost physical controls and questionable styling, while performance purists cheer its unexpected oversteer capabilities. Having pushed this 4,300lb luxury sports sedan to its limits, we dissect whether its new platform and tech-heavy approach dethrones the reigning BMW M340i.

Under the Hood: Technical Evolution or Gimmick Overload?

Audi’s radical overhaul starts with a new MLB Evo platform, replacing the S4 badge with the unified "S5" nomenclature. The turbocharged 3.0L V6 now produces 367 horsepower—a marginal increase—paired with a responsive 7-speed dual-clutch transmission that outperforms its predecessor’s laggy behavior. Crucially, engineers implemented a redesigned rear differential, stiffer control arms, and optimized camber angles.

During aggressive cornering in Wales, these modifications enabled unexpected throttle-induced oversteer—a first for the S lineage. As one tester noted: "This isn’t torque-rear wizardry like the RS3, but Audi’s mechanical tweaks create playful rear-end behavior previously unimaginable in a 4,300lb sedan." However, the steering remains disappointingly numb despite Audi’s claimed "focus on feel," failing to match the BMW’s communicative rack.

The Tech & Interior Dilemma: Innovation vs Intuition

Audi’s minimalist cabin prioritizes screens over tactility, sparking polarizing reactions:

• Haptic Controls: Flat steering wheel buttons and door panel sliders lack the satisfying click of previous physical units. As a former B8.5 S5 owner observed: "They feel like a downgrade in functionality despite looking sleeker."
• Digital Overload: The secondary passenger screen (for maps/media) proves useful for co-navigation but adds complexity. The configurable ambient lighting that signals turns is a genuine innovation, though.
• Compromised Ergonomics: The loss of physical climate controls and the cheap-feeling sun visors contrast sharply with premium materials elsewhere.

Notably, the electrochromatic panoramic roof and 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio deliver standout luxury experiences. Front seats retain exceptional comfort, though the illuminated "S" logo in headrests divides opinion.

BMW M340i vs S5: The Ultimate Verdict

After back-to-back evaluation, three critical distinctions emerge:

1. Driving Engagement: The BMW’s steering feedback and chassis balance remain superior for spirited driving, though the S5’s newfound oversteer narrows the gap.
2. Tech Execution: Audi’s dual screens and ambient lighting feel more futuristic, but BMW’s iDrive 8 offers superior menu logic and physical iDrive controller.
3. Practicality: The S5’s hatchback design (now standard) provides vastly superior cargo access versus the BMW’s trunk.

The verdict? The M340i retains its dynamic crown, but the S5 counters with tech innovation and surprising agility. For buyers prioritizing cutting-edge interfaces and hatch versatility, the Audi now presents a compelling alternative.

Key Takeaways & Actionable Insights

Pre-Purchase Checklist:

1. Test haptic controls extensively—ensure they don’t frustrate daily use.
2. Demand the Black Package (black grille/mirrors) to elevate the controversial exterior.
3. Find winding roads to experience the rear differential’s behavior firsthand.
4. Compare cargo scenarios: The S5’s hatch may justify its weight penalty.
5. Verify trim availability—North America misses the wagon and coupe variants.

Recommended Resources:

• Automotive Press Steering Feel Index for objective handling comparisons
• Audi Q8 forums to troubleshoot MMI infotainment quirks
• BMW B58 engine communities for long-term reliability data

Final Thoughts

The 2024 S5 succeeds not by defeating the M340i, but by becoming a legitimate alternative. Its flaws—numb steering and questionable controls—are balanced by shockingly playful handling and segment-leading tech. For those valuing innovation over tradition, the choice is no longer automatic.

Which matters more to you: tactile buttons or configurable oversteer? Share your dealbreaker below.