Whilst the Audi A5 is an elegant Coupé and strong rival for the long-established BMW 3 Series Coupé, its Sportback sibling puts a strong case forward, offering a helpful dose of practicality. For 2012 the A5 Sportback has had some slight cosmetic changes, mainly the addition of new led daytime running lights and a redesigned front grille which give the car a slightly more stylish look.
The A5 Sportback is available across three trim specifications, the standard level has been increased with a host of equipment including 17” alloys, front centre armrest, cruise control and iPod/MP3 connectivity all incorporated. Customers can choose to upgrade to SE trim which includes 18” alloys, Bluetooth connectivity, Xenon lights, leather upholstery and a colour driver information system. If you’re more into the sporty look, for an additional €2,500 over the SE trim you can have the S Line model. It’s instantly recognisable with its 18” twin spoke alloys and sculpted bumpers, the interior features leather Alcantara sports seats and a leather multifunction steering wheel.
The 2.0-litre TDI engine in the model I drove will no doubt be a key seller in the A5 Sportback. It provides decent power with 177hp available, more importantly it produces 380Nm of torque. With all this torque on offer I didn’t have to shift up and down the six-speed manual gearbox frequently. It’s an efficient engine with an average fuel consumption of just 4.7l/100km and with emissions of 120g/km it’s seated in tax band A with €160 annual road tax. It might lack the outright pace and agility of the larger 3.0-litre unit, but you can’t ignore the low running costs associated with it. Prices for the A5 Sportback commence from €39,170. The gentle revisions it has received add to the A5 Sportback’s appeal.
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