By the Rims & Tires Team
Compiled & reviewed by our West Georgia tire & wheel research team · Updated 2026-07-17
The Audi A5 family covers a wide spread of driving personalities — from the A5 40 TFSI Sportback that serves as a refined daily driver to the S5 3.0 TFSI quattro that positions itself as a genuine sport coupe. The tire brief shifts accordingly: touring compounds for the standard A5, performance UHP for the S5, and something in between for the A5 sportline trims. This guide covers the options across the range.
A5 vs S5 Tire Priorities
The standard A5 (through 2024) ranges from 201 hp (40 TFSI) to 261 hp (45 TFSI mild-hybrid) across the Coupe, Sportback, and Convertible — comfortable body styles where tire comfort, wet grip, and reasonable wear life matter more than maximum lateral grip. The S5 3.0 TFSI (349 hp) changes the calculus — with quattro and genuine sport intentions, the S5 rewards a UHP compound that matches its chassis capability.
Both use square (non-staggered) setups: the same size front and rear. This means full rotation is possible on both the A5 and S5, which is a meaningful longevity advantage over staggered M cars.
Standard A5 fitment is typically 245/40R18. The S5 steps up to 255/35R19, with 265/30R20 available on the largest wheel package. Verify your specific trim and build with the door jamb before ordering.
Best Tires for the Audi A5
For the standard A5, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5, Continental PremiumContact 7, and Bridgestone Turanza T005 are the strongest options. All three are Grand Touring performers that deliver confident wet grip, a quiet ride, and 25,000 to 35,000 miles of tread life when rotated regularly.
The A5 Cabriolet (convertible) benefits from a slightly softer-sidewall tire for ride quality — without the rigidity of a fixed roof, the Cabriolet body flexes slightly more and a stiffer tire can transmit more road harshness. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Pirelli Cinturato P7 both offer the right balance here.
For all-season usability, the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 4 and Continental ExtremeContact DWS06+ in A5 sizes are the top choices, providing meaningful cold-weather performance without sacrificing summer-driving capability.
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Best Tires for the Audi S5
The S5 platform calls for a true UHP summer compound when driven with intent. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S and Continental SportContact 7 are the strongest options and are available in 255/35R19, the common S5 sport package fitment. Both deliver excellent dry and wet grip with reasonable tread life for a performance compound.
The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 with Audi A0 approval is available in S5 fitments and is a factory-approved option that was specifically co-developed with Audi. For track-day use, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 is the premier upgrade — available in S5 sizes for drivers who want maximum on-circuit capability.
With the square setup, S5 owners should rotate every 5,000 miles. At UHP price points ($200-plus per tire), disciplined rotation pays back more than it costs.
Frequently asked
What tires does the Audi A5 come with?
Standard A5 variants ship with touring or sport all-season fitments in 245/40R18 — the OE brand varies by build and production run. The S5 ships with higher-performance options including Pirelli P Zero or Michelin Pilot Sport 4S in 255/35R19 or 265/30R20. Always check the door jamb sticker and current tire sidewall for the exact fitment on your vehicle.
What size tires does the Audi A5 use?
The A5 standard variants typically use 245/40R18. S5 sport configurations run 255/35R19 or 265/30R20. The A5 Cabriolet fitment may differ from the Coupe and Sportback. Verify your door jamb before ordering replacements.
What is the best tire for the Audi S5?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S and Continental SportContact 7 are the strongest everyday performance choices for the S5. For track use, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 provides meaningfully more dry grip at the cost of wet-weather performance. All are available in common S5 fitments.
Can I rotate Audi A5 tires?
Yes. The A5 and S5 use square setups (same size front and rear), which allows full front-to-rear rotation. Rotate every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to even out wear. This is especially valuable with expensive UHP compounds on the S5. Rotation makes a noticeable difference in total tire life.
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Last updated 2026-07-17. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.