Audi A5 3.0 TDI quattro Sport

Nov 6 2008 Malcolm Robertshaw

THE A5, a recent addition to the hugely successful Audi stable, has been created to fill a gap in the German car maker's line-up, slotting in between the A4 and larger A6 models.

This latest Audi offering has certainly got the look of a top class coupe with curves in all the right places and an overall elegant, yet aggressive, styling designed to catch the eye of interested bystanders.

In fact, viewed in the metal from a distance, the combination of the low swoop of the roofline and a decidedly distinctive rear view creates a hugely agreeable sight on the horizon.

Five engines are on offer - three petrol in the 1.8-litre 168bhp TFSI, 3.2-litre 262bhp FSI V6 and the 352bhp 4.2-litre V8 which is reserved for the range-topping S5. Diesel power comes courtesy of a 2.7-litre 188bhp TDI and, driven here, the 3.0-litre 238bhp TDI V6.

Standard kit level is generous, the likes of climate control, 10-speaker sound system with CD and MP3 compatibility, electric front windows, powered and heated door mirrors, electro mechanical parking brake, front and rear foglights, driver information system and leather upholstery while the Sport model adds 18-inch 10-spoke alloys and sports suspension.

Despite occupants having to dip low to gain entry through quite shortish doors, inside the A5 is a full four-seater. However, comfort in the rear seats will not suit everyone, long-legged adults may find the facility a little claustrophobic while headroom may prove a little on the tight side for some taller passengers.

However, the boot has benefited in the space stakes, boasting a hugely accommodating 455-litres of luggage area with all four seats taken which increases to a pretty massive 829-litres up to the roof with the rear bench folded down.

For some years, the German car maker has enjoyed a reputation for thoughtful interior design, materials highly agreeable to the touch and user-friendly illumination shining on some very high class fit and finish.

This quality look and feel extends to the dials and instrumentation in an all-new interior with a well laid out dashboard clearly focusing primarily on the driver. Seated in comfortably supportive sports seats, the driving environment to be found on board the A5 is truly excellent.

Paired with a slick-switching six-speed manual gear change the 3.0-litre TDI is a fine example of diesel power at work, economically spreading high levels of torque over a wide range of revs.

With the ability to sprint from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds, the A5 Coupe is sufficiently swift, while being capable of returning above the 40mpg mark.

A well balanced car with speed related power steering to hand, the A5 also excels with some fine precision when turning in and out of corners while stacks of grip helped by the quattro permanent 4x4 delivers some great traction.

Feeling reassuringly planted on the tarmac, the A5 also has body roll well under control and while the lowered Sport suspension delivers a ride which is a little on the firm side, it is certainly not inhibiting, feeling decidedly comfortable.

The Audi A5 also makes light work of motorway progress over the long haul, making the car an asset as a grand tourer in addition to its coupe capabilities.

FAST FACTS

Audi A5 3.0 TDI quattro Sport

Price : £34,685

Mechanical : 238bhp, 2,967cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 6spd manual gearbox

Max speed : 155mph

0-62mph : 5.9 secs

Combined mpg : 42.8

Insurance group : 17

CO2 emissions : 172g/km

BiK rating : 24%

Warranty : 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust