The name that Audi use to classify the new A5 model is the ‘Sportback’. At first glance it may seem similar to the A4 saloon but that is where the similarities stop. The car is actually a hatchback which gives it that extra bit of practicality over a coupe. This also means that there is more space for passengers in the back.

Driving

The sportback comes with an impressive range of engines. The cheapest is the 2.0 TFSI that boasts an impressive 180bhp. This take the car from 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds whilst keeping economy at a useful 44mpg. The same engine is also available in a 211bhp guise, this bring the 0-62mph time down to 6.6 seconds. The top of the line petrol engine is the 3.2 FSI that has 265bhp. The only improvement with this engine is the sound, it is no faster than the 211bhp TFSI engine and actually boasts worse performance figures.

All of these engines are available with Audi’s S-tronic automatic gearbox. This 7 speed dual-clutch box is punchy and responsive. It is a fine example of what modern automatic gearboxes are capable of. The diesel engines are proving to be more popular, the 2.0 TDI that offers 170bhp is currently the best seller with buyers being drawn towards its 54mpg economy figure. The 3.0 TDI is the top of the line diesel offering and it produces 240bhp which pulls it to 62mph in an impressive 6.1 seconds.

Handling

The ride is a little on the firm side but this means that the cornering is impressive. It is designed with a coupe in mind after all. On the whole the car drives very much like the standard A5, it has excellent control and the steering is responsive, it just lacks in feel a bit. There is an optional system available called Audi drive select, this allows the driver to alter the suspension, steering and throttle response. There are 2 different versions of this available and I suggest you test drive a car fitted with each to see if you can notice any difference.

Comfort

The A5 has a longer wheelbase than the A4 and also some extra width, this means that there is ample room in the back even for those taller passengers. The low slung coupe shape means that wind noise is at a minimum even when travelling at high speed. The standard seats are excellent and the S line versions come as sports seats as standard which offer extra support for those eager to test out the cornering abilities the car has to offer.

Practicality

This is what sets the A5 apart from others in this class. Instead of being a coupe it is actually a hatchback which means it can offer a generous 480 litres of boot space. The biggest advantage of this though is the large hatch opening meaning you can place larger objects into the boot.

Equipment

The Sportback boasts an impressive range of standard equipment. 17 inch alloy wheels, climate control, electronic stability control, halogen daytime lights, intelligent key, electronic parking brake, CD player and heated door mirrors all come as standard. Upgrade to the SE model and you get leather seats, driver information system, three-zone climate control and rear parking sensors. The top of the range S-line receives 18 inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights with LED’s stiffer sports suspension, paddle shift gearbox (on the automatic versions), the S-line styling pack and sports seats.

Safety

The A5 is yet to be independently crash tested by NCAP as it so heavily based on the A4 which received the top rating of 5 stars. The car comes with six airbags as standard as well as electronic stability control and cleverly designed anti-whiplash head restraints. There is also a lane departure warning system that alerts the driver if they should drift out of their driving lane.

Overview

The A5 is impressive overall, its sleek coupe looks and hatchback functionality make it a good choice for a wide variety of motorists. Obviously, those with a large family will have to look elsewhere but you could easily cope with the 2.4 children and the school run. Long commutes would be a pleasure and the fuel economy is impressive for such purposes. It’s hats off to Audi yet again.