BMW M340i vs Audi S5
In the premium sports sedan arena, few battles are as compelling as the showdown between German luxury powerhouses. The 2025 BMW M340i and the redesigned Audi S5 represent two distinct philosophies on how to blend daily usability with exhilarating performance. Both cars carry storied nameplates that have earned devoted followings, but they approach the task of delivering driving pleasure in markedly different ways. Whether you’re a spirited driving enthusiast or a luxury-minded commuter who appreciates occasional bursts of power, this comparison will help you determine which German thoroughbred deserves a spot in your garage.
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Understanding the Segment: Where Performance Meets Practicality
Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand what makes these vehicles special. These aren’t full-blown performance machines like the BMW M3 or Audi RS5—they’re the sweet spot models that deliver serious performance without the compromises inherent in track-focused cars. They’re designed for buyers who want something significantly more exciting than base luxury sedans but don’t need or want the stiff suspensions, harsh ride quality, and premium fuel economy penalties of hardcore sports cars.
Pricing: The Cost of German Engineering
Let’s start with the bottom line. At $61,375 to start for the rear-drive model, the M340i is a relative bargain, while the Premium trim starts at $62,700 for the Audi S5. The pricing gap is remarkably close, with just over $1,300 separating the base models.
However, the M340i offers both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive xDrive variants, giving buyers a choice between pure driving dynamics and all-weather capability. The S5, meanwhile, comes exclusively with Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system as standard equipment across all trim levels.
When you start adding options and packages, both vehicles can quickly climb into the $70,000-$75,000 range. Premium Plus and Prestige trims of the S5 add luxury features and advanced technology, while the M340i’s various packages like the M Sport package and Premium package can similarly elevate both price and equipment levels.
In India, the ex-showroom prices of the 2025 M340i start from ₹72.90 lakh for the xDrive variant, making these premium sports sedans a significant investment regardless of your choice.
Engine Power: Six-Cylinder Symphony
Both vehicles are powered by turbocharged inline-six engines, but their approaches differ significantly in output and character.
BMW M340i Powertrain:
The M340i comes with an intercooled turbo gas/electric I-6 with 3.0L displacement that produces 386 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 398 pound-feet of torque at 1900 rpm. A few years ago, BMW beefed it up with a mild hybrid system, which both improves fuel economy and helps take a load off the engine while the turbo spools up.
The M340i’s engine is a masterpiece of modern engineering. The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, BMW’s legendary B58 unit, delivers its substantial power with remarkable smoothness and linearity. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system isn’t just there for fuel economy—it actively fills in torque gaps during turbo spool-up, creating an incredibly responsive throttle response that feels almost naturally aspirated.
Entry-level 330i models offer a 255-horsepower turbo four-cylinder powertrain while the upgraded M340i swaps in a 386-hp turbocharged inline-six; both come with 48-volt hybrid systems. The power delivery is immediate and relentless, with peak torque arriving at just 1,900 rpm and holding strong through the rev range.
Audi S5 Powertrain:
The 2025 Audi S5 presents an interesting situation due to its midyear redesign. The S5 Sportback Premium Plus 3.0 TFSI quattro produces 349 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 369 pound-feet of torque at 3200 rpm. However, every S5 is equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that makes 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the newer specification.
The S5 is fortified with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that’s good for 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque—those S5 numbers represent an increase of 13 horses and 37 pound-feet over the previous generation.
The S5’s 3.0-liter TFSI V6 delivers power with Audi’s characteristic smoothness and refinement. While it produces slightly less horsepower than the BMW (depending on specification), its torque output is comparable, ensuring strong acceleration across the rev range. The engine note is sophisticated and purposeful without being overly aggressive—perfect for a car that needs to work in both boardroom parking lots and canyon carving sessions.
Transmission and Drivetrain: Power Distribution Philosophy
Both manufacturers employ sophisticated transmissions, but their approaches differ fundamentally.
BMW M340i:
The M340i features an 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. This ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic is renowned throughout the industry for its smoothness, intelligence, and lightning-quick shifts. It’s telepathic in its ability to predict your intentions, downshifting aggressively when you need power and upshifting smoothly during relaxed cruising.
The M340i offers both rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive configurations. The rear-drive M340i took 4.4 seconds to get to 60 mph, versus 3.8 for the car with all-wheel traction. This choice matters significantly—the rear-drive model provides a purer, more engaging driving experience with better balance and more playful handling, while the xDrive model delivers superior traction and acceleration in all conditions.
Audi S5:
All-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission are standard on the S5. For both engines, Audi is swapping out the existing eight-speed automatic for a seven-speed dual-clutch unit in the redesigned model.
The dual-clutch transmission provides instantaneous shifts with no torque interruption, creating a more immediate, sporty feel compared to traditional automatics. The dual-clutch automatic is crisp and responsive, as is typical of the genre, yet doesn’t suffer lurching engagement at low speeds.
Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system is legendary for good reason, providing exceptional traction and stability in all weather conditions. However, this comes with a slight weight penalty compared to the rear-drive M340i.
Acceleration Performance: Sprint to Sixty
When it comes to straight-line acceleration, both vehicles deliver impressive performance that puts them in legitimate sports car territory.
BMW M340i Performance:
At our test track, the all-wheel-drive M340i xDrive ripped to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Even the rear-wheel-drive version is impressively quick, with the rear-drive M340i taking 4.4 seconds to get to 60 mph and hitting the quarter mile in 12.8 seconds at 113.8 mph.
These numbers are remarkable for what is ostensibly a luxury sedan. The xDrive model’s 3.7-second sprint puts it in the same performance territory as many dedicated sports cars costing significantly more. The difference between RWD and AWD models comes down to launch traction—once rolling, they’re nearly identical in performance.
Audi S5 Performance:
The S5 can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds, according to Audi, and its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. At our test track, we recorded a launch-control-enabled 60-mph time of 3.9 seconds for the new-generation S5, with a quarter-mile time of 12.5 seconds at 110 mph.
The S5’s performance is impressively consistent due to its standard all-wheel-drive system. You don’t need to worry about wheelspin or launch technique—Quattro puts the power down confidently every time. The newer generation S5 is notably quicker than the outgoing model, closing the gap with the M340i xDrive significantly.
Fuel Efficiency: German Efficiency Standards
Given their performance capabilities, both vehicles deliver respectable fuel economy figures that make them viable for daily driving.
BMW M340i Fuel Economy:
The EPA estimates the more powerful six-cylinder M340i has ratings that top out at 23 mpg city and 31 highway. Impressively, we tested a rear-drive 330i on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route and saw an impressive 42 mpg, though the M340i would naturally achieve lower numbers due to its more powerful engine.
Power-wise, it’s now making a combined 386 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque, which is closing in on what a full-boat M3 made 10 years ago. Unlike that car, which was rated at 17/24 mpg city/highway way back when, this M-lite model nets an EPA-rated 27/33/29 mpg city/highway/combined. The mild-hybrid system significantly contributes to these efficiency gains.
The B58 happily zips across the country at over 80 mph while returning nearly 40 mpg on highway cruises, making it an excellent long-distance companion.
Audi S5 Fuel Economy:
The S5 gets decent fuel economy estimates for a small sport sedan, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. We averaged a solid 25 mpg overall in our U.S.-spec test car, which also returned 33 mpg on our 75-mph highway test, beating its EPA estimate by 5 mpg.
The S5’s slightly lower city fuel economy compared to the M340i can be attributed to its all-wheel-drive system and dual-clutch transmission characteristics. However, on the highway, both vehicles achieve similar efficiency, making either an excellent choice for road trips.
Driving Dynamics: Where Philosophy Meets Pavement
This is where personal preference becomes paramount, as both vehicles offer exceptional but distinctly different driving experiences.
BMW M340i Driving Character:
We applauded its ability to transition from relaxed-and-refined to sharp-and-playful. The 330i also secured its spot at the top of its class. The M340i amplifies this character with its more powerful engine and available performance packages.
Since its introduction 50 years ago, the BMW 3 Series has long been considered the leader in the sports sedan segment, and the M340i upholds this legacy brilliantly. The steering is communicative and precise, providing excellent feedback about what the front wheels are doing. The chassis balance is nearly perfect, especially in rear-wheel-drive configuration, allowing skilled drivers to adjust the car’s attitude with throttle inputs.
Body control is exceptional, with minimal roll during aggressive cornering. The suspension strikes an impressive balance between comfort and performance—firm enough to inspire confidence on twisty roads, yet compliant enough for daily driving. The M340i feels eager, responsive, and genuinely fun to drive hard.
Audi S5 Driving Character:
The S5 impressively balances driving enjoyment and comfort. Steering is light and direct but feels appropriately heavier when attacking curves at higher speeds. The S5 is a pleasure to drive, whether you’re commuting or taking a weekend joyride.
The S5 is capable around corners too. Our car came equipped with the optional S Sport package. It helps blend the best of all-wheel-drive traction with the nimble feeling of a rear-wheel-drive car.
The S5 prioritizes refinement and confidence over ultimate engagement. The Quattro system provides exceptional grip, allowing you to carry higher speeds through corners with minimal drama. Ride quality is impressive, and the suspension prevents most bumps and jolts from entering the cabin.
While some enthusiasts find the steering a bit numb, the overall package delivers a sophisticated, confidence-inspiring driving experience that’s more about effortless speed than raw engagement.
Interior Quality and Technology: Cabin Comparison
Both vehicles offer premium interiors with cutting-edge technology, though they express luxury differently.
BMW M340i Interior:
The M340i features BMW’s latest iDrive 8.5 system with a curved display housing both infotainment and digital instruments. BMW has filled the 3-series with impressive tech, including a wall of displays on the dash for infotainment and gauges, available augmented-reality navigation, and all the expected driver-assistance features.
The interior design is driver-focused, with controls angled toward the pilot. Materials quality is excellent, with available Vernasca leather, real metal accents, and premium plastics throughout. The sport seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for long journeys.
For example, you’ll need to pay extra to get the surround-view camera system, parking sensors and even adaptive cruise control. Rival sedans, such as the Acura TLX and Lexus IS, give you more features for less money. BMW’s approach to options can be frustrating, as many desirable features require expensive packages.
Audi S5 Interior:
The redesigned S5 showcases Audi’s latest Digital Stage cockpit philosophy. The interior feels modern and sophisticated, with exceptional build quality and material selection. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster is highly configurable, and the MMI infotainment system is intuitive and responsive.
Available infotainment features include a 10.9-inch front-passenger touch screen, wireless device charging and a 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The attention to detail is impressive, with ambient LED lighting, premium materials throughout, and thoughtful storage solutions.
The S5’s interior feels slightly more luxurious and sophisticated than the BMW’s, with a more horizontal design aesthetic that creates a sense of spaciousness. The new S5 is bigger in every dimension than the outgoing Sportback, especially so in both length and wheelbase at around three inches, translating to more interior room.
Practicality and Daily Usability
Both vehicles excel as daily drivers, but with different strengths.
BMW M340i Practicality:
As a traditional sedan, the M340i offers a conventional trunk with good cargo capacity. The rear seats provide adequate space for adults, though taller passengers might find headroom slightly limited. The sedan body style is more conservative and professional, making it appropriate for any setting.
It’s fun on a backroad. It’s practical on a daily basis. I can hop in and drive cross-country without hesitation. This versatility is the M340i’s greatest strength—it genuinely excels at everything.
Audi S5 Practicality:
The S5’s Sportback hatchback design provides significantly more cargo versatility than the BMW’s traditional sedan trunk. The liftback opening allows you to load larger items, making it more practical for weekend trips, sports equipment, or shopping runs.
For 2025, Audi has dropped both the coupe and convertible S5 from the lineup, leaving the four-door S5 Sportback as the only version. This decision focuses the lineup but limits body style choice. The Sportback design offers excellent rear-seat space and a more versatile cargo area while maintaining a sleek, coupe-like appearance.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both manufacturers offer comprehensive safety features, though availability varies by trim level.
The M340i includes standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. However, advanced features like adaptive cruise control and parking assistance often require optional packages.
The S5 comes better equipped as standard, with front automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control included. Higher trims add even more advanced systems, though both vehicles can be equipped with virtually identical safety technology when fully optioned.
The Verdict: Different Paths to Driving Excellence
Choosing between these two exceptional German sports sedans comes down to personal priorities and driving philosophy.
Choose the BMW M340i if:
- You prioritize ultimate driving engagement and feedback
- The option of rear-wheel drive appeals to your enthusiast sensibilities
- You prefer a more aggressive, sporting character
- Traditional sedan styling suits your needs
- You want a car that feels more playful and adjustable
- Slightly better acceleration (xDrive model) matters
- The legendary BMW inline-six experience is important to you
- You appreciate a driver-focused cockpit layout
Choose the Audi S5 if:
- You value sophisticated refinement over raw engagement
- All-wheel-drive security is essential (standard on all models)
- The Sportback hatchback’s cargo versatility appeals to you
- You prefer a more understated, elegant design aesthetic
- Interior luxury and material quality are top priorities
- Better standard equipment matters (fewer options required)
- Dual-clutch transmission’s immediate shifts appeal to you
- You want confident, all-weather capability without compromise
Final Thoughts: Excellence in Different Flavors
Both the 2025 BMW M340i and Audi S5 represent outstanding achievements in automotive engineering. At $61,375 to start for the rear-drive model, the M340i is a relative bargain for anyone looking at purchasing a sedan with some muscle that you can easily drive every day.
The M340i is the choice for driving purists who want maximum engagement and the option of rear-wheel-drive dynamics. It’s sharper, more communicative, and delivers a more visceral driving experience that rewards skilled inputs. It’s truly one of the most well-rounded, enthusiast-focused, daily-drivable cars on the market in 2025.
The S5 represents a more sophisticated approach—refined, confident, and effortlessly capable. It prioritizes smooth power delivery, all-weather security, and luxurious comfort while still delivering engaging performance when desired. The Sportback design adds practical versatility that the BMW sedan can’t match.
Neither car is objectively better—they’re simply optimized for different priorities. Test drive both vehicles back-to-back on roads you know well. Pay attention to how each car communicates, how the steering feels, how the power delivers, and which interior environment makes you happier. The right choice is the one that resonates with your driving style and makes every journey, whether to the office or through canyon roads, something to anticipate rather than endure.
In a world increasingly dominated by SUVs and electric vehicles, both the M340i and S5 represent something increasingly rare: beautifully engineered, gasoline-powered sports sedans that remind us why driving can be such a joy. Whichever you choose, you’re getting one of the finest expressions of German automotive excellence available today.
