Audi A5 Sportback review

Mercedes may have been the first brand to combine coupé style with executive car practicality when it launched the original CLS, but that car came with a hefty price tag. That left the door open for Audi to come along and democratise the formula with its first-generation Audi A5 Sportback; suddenly, style and practicality was within the reach of many more executive car buyers.

Offering an extra pair of doors and a more practical hatchback-style tailgate over the A5 Coupé and Convertible models, the A5 Sportback was, and still is, essentially an A4 saloon in a well-tailored suit. This version has the potential to be the best yet. Why? Well, the current A4 saloon is so much better than any that went before it — it is a former overall What Car? Car of the Year — so the A5 is built from fine foundations.

How good is it? Read on over the next few pages for everything you need to know if you're considering an A5 Sportback. That includes whether to buy a petrol or diesel engine, a manual or automatic gearbox, and which trim gives you the most value for money. We'll also compare it with its key rivals, which includes the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and Kia Stinger. Once you've made a decision and you're ready to make a purchase, be sure to look at our hassle-free new car deals page.

If you're hoping to read about the Audi RS5, you can head to our dedicated review, here.