Audi's previous-generation A5 experienced huge popularity which bodes well for the all-new version, say Jack Evans.
What is it?
The Audi A5 has been hugely popular since 2007. Ideal for those looking for a smart, but economical, coupe, it dominated the market segment. Now it's been completely redesigned.
Sleeker and lighter, it's even more economical and features some of Audi's most up-to-date technology.
Looks and image
The original A5 was sleek and the latest edition has an even lower roofline which gives a purposeful look. SE and Sport models standard 17in and S line's 18in alloy wheels fill the arches nicely.
Audi has a reputation for creating premium cars and the A5 is beautifully built with a cabin design that's up to date without being over laden with technology.
Space and practicality
As a coupe, the A5 is never going to be the most practical four-seater. Up front there's plenty of space for passengers with decent storage. In the back, legroom is adequate for children and small adults but that sloping roofline hampers headroom for taller passengers.
Boot space is respectable at 465 litres with the 40/20/40 split rear seats backs up. It's quite deep so swallows larger items with ease. For the most part, the A5 copes easily with day-to-day demands.
Behind the wheel
The original A5 offered a relatively involving drive, regardless of engine. The 190PS 2.0-litre turbo diesel will be most popular, offering good throttle response and pulling well in any gear. The seven-speed automatic gearbox shifts nicely and is even more responsive in sport mode.
The steering is pleasant with the flat-bottomed steering wheel, complete with manual shift paddles for the automatic gearbox, a nice design.
The A5 is a very good car for covering long distances in comfort but the ride can be a little harsh on bumpy roads although it's better with smaller wheels.
Value for money
The Audi A5 is a premium car but the 190PS 2.0 TFSI turbo petrol SE base spec cars start at £30,700, rising to £41,375 for the 218PS 3.0-litre V6 TDI S line quattro while the high-performance 354PS 3.0 V6 TFSI quattro S5 is £47,000.
Sport models have more than enough standard equipment to keep most people happy, including 17in alloy wheels, Xenon headlights, three-zone climate control, cruise control, satellite navigation and a three-spoke leather trimmed multifunction steering wheel.
Go easy on the long options list and the Audi A5 can be good value.
Who would buy one?
The Audi A5 is ideal for someone looking for a car with a premium image, good residuals and low running costs. With some fuel-efficient engines on offer, it won't cost the earth to run but will still be exciting when the roads get twisty.
It's not the most spacious but with a decent boot it isn't as impractical as you might think a coupe would be.
SPEC AND TECH
Model: Audi A5 2.0 TDI ultra Coupe Sport £36,480 (range from £30,700)
Engine: 1,968cc, 190PS, four-cylinder turbo diesel producing 400Nm of torque
Transmission: Seven-speed automatic
Performance: 0-62mph 7.7 seconds, top speed 130mph
MPG: 70.6 combined
CO2 emissions: 105g/km
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