Thinking of getting an Audi A5?
The style of the car
Audi has a way of making its cars look discreetly stylish and this is a balance the A5 strikes very well. S Line models have a sportier look. The fast S5 model looks more purposeful, while the very high performance RS5 is muscular and aggressive. A new version of the A5 was launched in 2017, featuring different front-end styling. Two-door coupe and convertible body types are available, as well as a five-door hatchback called the A5 Sportback.
How it drives
The A5 feels great to drive and is quiet and comfortable on a long journey. Standard parking sensors mean manoeuvring isn’t an issue, and some models have cameras as well. There’s a wide range of efficient petrol and diesel engines available. The entry-level models give perfectly adequate acceleration, while the most powerful models are seriously rapid. Automatic gearboxes and four-wheel drive are available on most models.
The interior
The A5 is about the same size as the BMW 4 Series or Mercedes C-Class Coupe. The two-door coupe and convertible, and five-door Sportback can all seat four adults in comfort, though access to the back seats is less easy in the two-door cars. A fifth passenger can squeeze into the middle back seat of the Sportback, which is a good alternative to saloons and estates if you want a stylish yet practical family car.
Every A5 model gives you enough boot space for a week’s worth of holiday luggage, while the Sportback’s back seat folds down to create more room.The A5’s interior is user-friendly and has a luxurious feel, too. All models have air con, smartphone connectivity and cruise control. High-spec models can be lavishly equipped.
Running costs and reliability
The A5 is available with a wide choice of petrol and diesel engines, all of which give good fuel economy for this kind of car. Road tax and insurance costs are generally reasonable, but can be pricey for the high-performance models.
How it compares with similar cars
The A5’s rivals include the BMW 4 Series, Mercedes C-Class Coupe and Convertible, and the Lexus RC. The A5 doesn’t feel as sporty to drive as some of its rivals but its style, comfort and user-friendliness hold a lot of appeal.
