G70 vs Audi S5

[Bmi949]

Please take care of those G70s. I’ll probably buy it in 5 years when I can afford it. LOL

 

[Redwing]

I was on the fence vs an Audi (I owned one at the time, and was looking at the A4.) Maybe the biggest factor for me (Vs A4) was the fun to drive factor. Now that's hard to quantify, but for me it combines acceleration, ride and handling as well as a bit of features like radio quality, etc. Honestly the G70 really was the clear winner for me in this comparo. Narrowing it down a bit, I still think that overall, I prefer the G70's ride/handling and power over the A4. I might think the A5 is a touch slower and less responsive???

 

[carguy75]

So my buddy recently bought a brand new Audi S5 Sportback and he and I spent a couple days comparing our two vehicles, and in case anyone else is interested in the comparison, I thought I'd post some quick thoughts about how it went. For reference, I have a 2020 G70 3.3T AWD.

• For starters, we tested 0-60 acceleration, once with me driving my G70 and a second time switching cars. Both times his S5 pretty handily beat my G70 with his S5 pulling out to around a couple car lengths lead. I have to admit his S5 pulls insanely strong right off the line. My G70 is no slouch by any means but the S5 is definitely quicker.
• In Sport mode (I think Audi calls it Dynamic), the S5's exhaust sounds better from the outside as well.
• Interestingly, I found the S5's Comfort mode to be worse than the G70's Eco mode. In Comfort mode, the S5 seemed almost gutless. But one nice thing was that if you put the Audi in Sport mode, it stays in Sport the next time you start the car. It bugs me how if I have the car in Sport mode, the next time I start the car it defaults to Comfort.
• Both my buddy and I agreed that the G70 was noticeably better in steering response and handling. The Audi's steering is at best numb and at worst actually awful. His S5 does have the dynamic steering option so maybe that's why it felt so terrible compared to the G70, but we both agreed the G70 was lot better in this regard.
• Exterior - this is purely subjective, but I do prefer the S5 exterior styling over the G70. I think the Audi designers really knocked it out of the park with the S5 exterior design, especially the Sportback. It's a beautiful car in my opinion. Plus, I think the quad tips, 20" wheels and the black trim really put it a couple notches above the G70 in terms of looks. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of the dark chrome on the G70 and all the little spots that seem to accumulate on it. On a side note, my buddy chose the Green metallic color, which I thought I would hate but it's actually not bad, and it could even grow on me and eventually become pretty cool. It's definitely distinctive and eye catching.
• Interior:
  • Seats - the S5's seats are way more comfortable, but I think it's because of the ventilated seats on the G70, which tend to be harder. Although my buddy really liked the side bolsters that kick in when you put it in Sport.
  • Both interiors are nice, with maybe a slight edge to the S5. The G70 seems to have more leather in the interior, and we both liked the contrast stitching, but I think Audi's interiors are the best in the business so the fact that the G70 can even be compared is a big plus in my opinion. Though personally, I would not have gone with the red interior that my buddy chose, especially with the green exterior.
  • Tech- this goes to the Audi. The virtual cockpit in the S5 is pretty cool, plus the touch display screen is befitting a car of this class (though personally, this isn't a huge deal to me). The Audi also has a parking assist function which I meant to test, but then forgot to.
  • Practicality - again this goes to the S5. A lot more room in the S5, but it is a sportback after all. Not a huge deal to me since I don't use my G70 for hauling stuff, but thought I'd mention it.

Overall, the S5 seems to win most of this comparison but then again, it is about $15K to almost $20K more expensive than the G70. I still think the G70 represents the best value in this class and I'm not sure the Audi is $15K "better" than the G70. That said I wouldn't mind trading cars with my buddy for a bit

Well, I have been a big VW/Audi fan for years so I still drool over the latest S models. The S5 is very nice car without a doubt. The G70 is not in the same class in terms of overall performance and appointments. However, the S5 is a very expensive vehicle with a very low reliability history. So after warranty the S5 will be a nightmare to maintain compared to the G70.

Genesis is a nice brand for "affordable" luxury, but Audi still is a "nicer" brand if you have the money to afford one. I still prefer Genesis because I ride in style and still save some money in the bank. But, I will not compare my Genesis to upscale luxury models with an S,M,AMG,F,etc. Genesis do not hold a candle to those cars in similar classes.

 

[Beefer]

Well, I have been a big VW/Audi fan for years so I still drool over the latest S models. The S5 is very nice car without a doubt. The G70 is not in the same class in terms of overall performance and appointments. However, the S5 is a very expensive vehicle with a very low reliability history. So after warranty the S5 will be a nightmare to maintain compared to the G70.

Genesis is a nice brand for "affordable" luxury, but Audi still is a "nicer" brand if you have the money to afford one. I still prefer Genesis because I ride in style and still save some money in the bank. But, I will not compare my Genesis to upscale luxury models with an S,M,AMG,F,etc. Genesis do not hold a candle to those cars in similar classes.

Seriously? Bizarre post.

 

[Slip_Angle]

Well, I have been a big VW/Audi fan for years so I still drool over the latest S models. The S5 is very nice car without a doubt. The G70 is not in the same class in terms or performance and appointments. However, the S5 is a very expensive vehicle with a very low reliability history. So after warranty the S5 will be a nightmare to maintain compared to the G70.

Genesis is a nice brand for "affordable" luxury, but Audi still is a "nicer" brand if you have the money to afford one. I still prefer Genesis because I ride in style and still save some money in the bank. But, I will not compare my Genesis to upscale luxury models with an S,M,AMG,F,etc. Genesis do not hold a candle to those cars.

Did you read through the thread? Other than off the line, the G70 outperforms the S4/S5 5-60, 30-50 and 50-70.. It superior, not inferior.

In terms of Audi being a nicer brand. That's subjective. Yes, Audi's in general are very nice cars inside and out. The virtual dash is outstanding for sure. Personally, I like the G70 interior more. Not just because I own one. I test drove the A5 and it was great but I never thought it was nicer other than the virtual dash.

Oh and have you seen the new G80 and GV80. Not sure Audi is keeping up with that level of luxury and interior quality.

 

[carguy75]

Seriously? Bizarre post.

I did not mean to make the post weird. My point is that the OP is comparing the G70 to a very nice Audi S5 while seemingly pointing out how the Audi is superior in many aspects, therefore I am only stating my opinion that Genesis makes are not on the same level as the halo cars from the big names. Hence the massive price difference.

Yes, the Genesis brand is nice but a G70 really is not going to be better overall than a similar class halo car that cost 50% more if not more. However, if handling and acceleration performance is the only metric than yes the G70 is comparable to the S5. But in overall comparison for the total package the S5 wins out in my opinion.

Therefore, i misspoke when I stated the G70 did not compare performance wise, I was looking at braking and 0-60 performance which is much stronger in the S5 but not the other times like you mention.

To me Audi is like a $1000 suit versus a $500 suit, similar looking on the outside but feels different when you wear it.

 

[carguy75]

Did you read through the thread? Other than off the line, the G70 outperforms the S4/S5 5-60, 30-50 and 50-70.. It superior, not inferior.

In terms of Audi being a nicer brand. That's subjective. Yes, Audi's in general are very nice cars inside and out. The virtual dash is outstanding for sure. Personally, I like the G70 interior more. Not just because I own one. I test drove the A5 and it was great but I never thought it was nicer other than the virtual dash.

Oh and have you seen the new G80 and GV80. Not sure Audi is keeping up with that level of luxury and interior quality.

Hey, I am not bashing Genesis. I like both makes. I am just stating that the S5 is overall better in my opinion like the OP noted. Different class of car than the G70. I know about some older modded out Chevys that can beat most newer cars on the road in terms of acceleration, however I will not make any claims that they are better because of that one advantage.

My Genesis 5.0 is nice, but it does not hold a candle to many of the similar classed halo cars that cost nearly twice as much.

However, this is all subjective I suppose to what a person feels is better. I did not mean to offend.

 

[Beefer]

I did not mean to make the post weird. My point is that the OP is comparing the G70 to a very nice Audi S5 while seemingly pointing out how the Audi is superior in most aspects, therefore I am only stating my opinion that Genesis makes are not on the same level as the halo cars from the big names. Hence the massive price difference.

Yes, the Genesis brand is nice but a G70 really is not going to be better overall than a similar class halo car that cost 50% more if not more. However, if handling and aceleration performance is the only metric than yes the G70 is comparable to the S5. But in overall comparison for the total package the S5 wins out in my opinion.

Let’s go this route. Tell me specifically what the S4/S5 has over the top trim G70.

Definitely not performance. Perhaps some cabin tech.

Let’s hear it.

Thanks

 

[carguy75]

Let’s go this route. Tell me specifically what the S4/S5 has over the top trim G70.

Definitely not performance. Perhaps some cabin tech.

Let’s hear it.

Thanks

Well, from what caught my eye. The Audi S5 top model seats have a massage function for one. Audi grade of seat leather feels better than what Genesis uses. The Audi seats seems to have more padding as well. The tech is superior with a very nice display in the instrument cluster. The 20in wheel choice looks better to me personally as do the overall styling of the S5.

The price would be the only reason why I would not buy a fully optioned out S5 over a fully optioned out G70 sport. I sat in both the G70 and S5 when I was just "window" shopping in my local dealerships, but never drove neither. So I do not how one drives over the other. I also checked out some newer Mercedes and even a Dodge Hellcat. Overall, I like how the Audi and Mercedes cars feel in the driver seat, but not the price tags.

Remember, this is only my personal opinion.

Admit it, if the fully optioned S5 cost the same as the fully optioned out G70 you will be tempted as well to rock the Audi badge.

 

[Aquineas]

I have nothing against Audis, but honestly if the prices and options were the same, I'd still go Genesis, for the following admittedly subjective reasons:

1. Nobody bats an eye when they see an Audi, unless it's an uncommon model or is a particularly pristine example of an S5 (I have to admit, when those things are clean and are wearing nice shoes, they are gorgeous). Otherwise Audis are a dime a dozen in Austin. The G70 is rare, for now anyway.
2. The cost of my buddy's extended warranty on his Audi was like $4500. Thankfully (and to my surprise), he hasn't needed it thus far.
3. I do not buy based on other people's brand perception. "Rocking an Audi badge" doesn't float my boat, per se. If I wanted an Audi, I would have bought one.
4. I appreciate Korean culture. What they've been able to do industrially and economically in an extremely short amount of time has been absolutely astounding. I love the fact that they're basically holding up their middle finger(s) to the snobby German brands they're going after. I do acknowledge that there's no way the G70 would be as good as it is without some much-appreciated German engineering talent.
5. I like the underdog.
6. Reliability.

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[Beefer]

Well, from what caught my eye. The Audi S5 top model seats have a massage function for one. Audi grade of seat leather feels better than what Genesis uses. The Audi seats seems to have more padding as well. The tech is superior with a very nice display in the instrument cluster. The 20in wheel choice looks better to me personally as do the overall styling of the S5.

The price would be the only reason why I would not buy a fully optioned out S5 over a fully optioned out G70 sport. I sat in both the G70 and S5 when I was just "window" shopping in my local dealerships, but never drove neither. So I do not how one drives over the other. I also checked out some newer Mercedes and even a Dodge Hellcat. Overall, I like how the Audi and Mercedes cars feel in the driver seat, but not the price tags.

Remember, this is only my personal opinion.

Admit it, if the fully optioned S5 cost the same as the fully optioned out G70 you will be tempted as well to rock the Audi badge.

The seats are massaging...but if you get the cooled seats...you lose that.

The Nappa seats are no worse than the G70 Nappa. I actually think the G70 Nappa seats are softer feeling. As for padding...not sure on that...I find my seats amazing. Audi doesn't have auto-bolsters either (going to Sport mode).

I would not say the tech is superior. Better...yes. More confusing and harder to use...yes.

20" wheels...subjective. I would never go with a wheel that big...but you can always upgrade I suppose. Probably cheaper aftermarket.

So you really have nothing there...sorry.

And no...I would not get the S5 if it had identical options and same price. The Sportback or S4...perhaps. Not a fan of the overhanging front.

 

[carguy75]

Fair enough everyone. I personally like the Audi S5 I must admit, however I should not have stated that the Audi S5 is better than the G70. Both are very fine cars that are well appointed for their classes and targeted price points.

Plus, like someone else mention; reliability is better with the Asian brands including Korean. The massaging seats in the Audi will probably fail just outside of the warranty period and be a pain in the ass to repair.

Hence why I drive a Genesis myself; reliable and a reasonably price top end product. However, I still have that soft place in my heart for Audi though.

 

[Husky]

I agree on the seats. I find the German seats (BMW, Audi), as well as Volvo, to be far more comfortable than my G70, while still being very supportive. This is my biggest complaint with my G70. Maybe it's my skinny build, but the seat discomfort after an hour drive is what may drive me to another brand.

 

[Julius88]

I agree on the seats. I find the German seats (BMW, Audi), as well as Volvo, to be far more comfortable than my G70, while still being very supportive. This is my biggest complaint with my G70. Maybe it's my skinny build, but the seat discomfort after an hour drive is what may drive me to another brand.

To be honest, and after having driven my friend's S5, this is my only real "complaint" with my G70. I find the seats to be a bit too firm, whereas the S5 felt very comfortable. But I think it's because my G70 has ventilated seats, whereas my buddy's S5 did not, and as I understand it, ventilated seats have an additional membrane that tends to make seats firmer. Given the price difference between the two cars, if this is the only thing that I am complaining about, then that's a big win for the Genesis in my book. Still don't understand how people can say Genesis and Audi (or BMW or MB) aren't in the same class when Genesis is clearly targeting this market. I guess Genesis needs to step up their marketing...

 

[Beefer]

To be honest, and after having driven my friend's S5, this is my only real "complaint" with my G70. I find the seats to be a bit too firm, whereas the S5 felt very comfortable. But I think it's because my G70 has ventilated seats, whereas my buddy's S5 did not, and as I understand it, ventilated seats have an additional membrane that tends to make seats firmer. Given the price difference between the two cars, if this is the only thing that I am complaining about, then that's a big win for the Genesis in my book. Still don't understand how people can say Genesis and Audi (or BMW or MB) aren't in the same class when Genesis is clearly targeting this market. I guess Genesis needs to step up their marketing...

...and their dealerships !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Redwing]

Well, I have been a big VW/Audi fan for years so I still drool over the latest S models. The S5 is very nice car without a doubt. The G70 is not in the same class in terms of overall performance and appointments. However, the S5 is a very expensive vehicle with a very low reliability history. So after warranty the S5 will be a nightmare to maintain compared to the G70.

Genesis is a nice brand for "affordable" luxury, but Audi still is a "nicer" brand if you have the money to afford one. I still prefer Genesis because I ride in style and still save some money in the bank. But, I will not compare my Genesis to upscale luxury models with an S,M,AMG,F,etc. Genesis do not hold a candle to those cars in similar classes.

I guess I just have a different opinion. True, cost came into play a bit, but for me, the A4/vs G70 was close and G70 won. A few features and more fun to drive. So, A4 is in the same class. A5, may be a notch bigger, so I'll defer judgement on that comparo.

 

[Slip_Angle]

If I was to get a different car in the same class, I'm pretty sure it would be a C43. Lots of character with that engine, exhaust and transmission combo...though I'm not a big fan of the back end of the C43 but the front and interior are really nice!

 

[sethsquire]

If I was to get a different car in the same class, I'm pretty sure it would be a C43. Lots of character with that engine, exhaust and transmission combo...though I'm not a big fan of the back end of the C43 but the front and interior are really nice!

I like the C43 a lot, especially the interior styling and the exhaust note. However, I've heard that it also has a very harsh ride and those nice-looking interiors are plagued with a lot of interior rattles. I'll probably test drive one at some point closer to lease end, but I did test drive a c300 sport with the same wheels at one point and I didn't find the ride to be bad at all.

I will also say that due to Mercedes' a la carte option offerings, it's basically impossible to find the options you want on a dealer lot.

 

[Julius88]

I haven't spent a lot of time in the C43 but I did test drive it a bit when I was car shopping. I LOVED the exhaust note, especially with the performance exhaust option. I didn't find the ride to be overly harsh, and the adaptive air suspension seems to work well. I think it can be super sporty or nice and soft depending on how you like it. I remembering at the time wishing it came with 20 inch wheels, but then again that could make the ride harsher. I don't have enough experience to comment on interior squeaks or rattles, but my brother has an E-class and both of us being car guys, we talk quite a bit about car stuff, and he's never complained about it (and he's kind of OCD about this stuff so if it was an issue, I'm pretty sure he'd mention it).

 

[Redwing]

I haven't spent a lot of time in the C43 but I did test drive it a bit when I was car shopping. I LOVED the exhaust note, especially with the performance exhaust option. I didn't find the ride to be overly harsh, and the adaptive air suspension seems to work well. I think it can be super sporty or nice and soft depending on how you like it. I remembering at the time wishing it came with 20 inch wheels, but then again that could make the ride harsher. I don't have enough experience to comment on interior squeaks or rattles, but my brother has an E-class and both of us being car guys, we talk quite a bit about car stuff, and he's never complained about it (and he's kind of OCD about this stuff so if it was an issue, I'm pretty sure he'd mention it).

I've got a GLC and it's been quiet. Curious though, any idea on sticker price for that C43. I admit I didn't looks at Benz since we have a GLC and wanted some variety.