The DeSoto S5 was a series of full-size cars introduced for the 1938 model year. The S5 replaced the previous DeSoto S3 and was available in a range of body styles that included two and four door saloon. This line of rear wheel drive cars was powered by a 3.7L inline six engine that produced 172hp. Production of the S5 was limited to the 1938 model year as in 1939 DeSoto split the model into the higher tier DeSoto Custom and lower tier DeSoto Deluxe.