Audi A5 Sportback | Video Review | CarsIreland.ie

Published on 26 May, 2017

Luxury coupés don't get much better-looking than the Audi A5

Overview

Overview

With its perfect dimensions and sporty roofline, the A5 could be described as an even more stylish take on the A4.

While the two door Coupé model may fall down slightly on practicality - this five-door Sportback option makes it a viable choice for families too. The performance range and cabriolet model extend that choice even further.

The latest version might not be a massive departure in design from the previous one, but the underpinnings are entirely new, and as the old saying goes 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'.

It’s slightly longer than the Coupé model which means more legroom in the back, but the sloping roofline does impact the headroom slightly.

The middle seat is also quite narrow and because of the large transmission tunnel isn't that useful for adults. There is a third seatbelt there so it can be used if you’re in a pinch, but the space is better used to accommodate the fold down centre armrest and maximise the comfort  for two instead.

The extra doors open nice and wide making it easier to fit childseats, and it comes with two sets of Isofix anchors to allow you to fit them securely to the chassis of the vehicle.

It offers the same amount of bootspace as the A4 at 480 litres, but its hatchback design makes it much more practical to load. It’s got a low load lip and can also be extended into the rear for any more heavy duty shopping trips.

Practical and pretty is a good way to describe the interior. Audi cabins are among the most refined on the market and the A5 is no exception with its clean lines and high quality materials. There’s lots of neat storage compartments around to keep it looking as neat and elegant as it should.

It’s pretty much the same interior as the A4 which is certainly not a bad thing. The MMI infotainment system takes centre stage and comes fully loaded with all the latest in-car technology including Audi’s new smartphone interface, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

That’s a standard feature on the SE model; as are Xenon headlamps, LED running lights, and front and rear parking sensors. The top-spec S-Line model adds the sportier S-Line styling which includes upgraded 18 inch alloy wheels, a flat-bottom S-Line steering wheel and a stiffer Sports suspension.

The A5 shares the A4’s full 5 star NCAP safety score, with autonomous emergency braking as standard, and a raft of additional driver assisting features available as options.

Speaking of options, there’s a list as long as your arm to choose from but if you only opt for one thing, make it the Virtual Cockpit. It transfers information from the MMI to a 12 inch display behind the steering wheel, and at just over €350 we think is well worth it for the wow factor.

One option that did make us flinch a bit was the metallic paint, and unless you want your A5 in black or white – you’ll have to spend an extra €1,250 to add a splash of colour.

Most A5s sold are still diesel. We had the 2.0l TDI with 190 hp, which is also available in a 150 brake version, and both are available in manual or with a seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission.

Ours was the S-line model so it did have that stiffened sports suspension which definitely gives it a fun and sporty feel, but can at times tip into overly harsh on some of Ireland’s not so great road surfaces. The good news is it can be deleted as an option at no extra cost.

Everything else is spot on - there's great feedback from the steering, a nearly silent cabin, and a great lowered driving position. The S-tronic gearbox offers a sublimely smooth experience with a quick, linear power uptake that ensures you feel every one of those 190 horses on take off. Claimed fuel economy is 6.3l/100km and CO2 emissions of 109g/km give it annual tax bill of €190.

For the petrol heads then there’s a 1.4l TFSI or a 2.0 190hp model, as well the two range topping Quattro models for those who want all-wheel drive.

You do pay for the premium build quality but the upshot is that it will hold on to its value well on the used market, and timeless Audi design means they tend to age well and not go out of fashion. When kept well, the number plate is often the only indicator of age. The engines and components are well tested across the Volkswagen Group range and there's a three year manufacturers warranty as standard.

Facts & Figures

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives