Audi A5 Sportback review

We said at the start that an Audi A5 Sportback is cheaper than a Mercedes-Benz CLS – that’s certainly true. But style still costs; the A5 is unquestionably pricier than the A4 on which it is based. But no doubt you’ve sussed that already. So the important thing here is context: how does it rate among its peers? Well, it’s similar money to an equivalent BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé, but you’ll be able to spend less on an equivalent Volkswagen Arteon or Kia Stinger.

But the Stinger isn’t very efficient, and that’s an area where the A5 really delivers. The most efficient diesel, for example, pumps out just 106g/km of CO2; that’s less than any of its rivals. But perhaps most remarkable of all is that even the V6 3.0 TDI 218 emits just 119g/km – considerably less than the 139g/km of the BMW 430d.

The 3.0 TDI 218’s claimed combined fuel economy of up to 61.4mpg is also very impressive, while the 2.0 TDI 190 Ultra is claimed to get close to 70mpg – although, in the real world, our tests have found that drops to nearer 50mpg. If you fancy a petrol, Audi claims the 1.4 and 2.0 TFSI units should nudge over 50mpg but, again, keep in mind that all the evidence indicates that you’ll struggle to get near that in everyday driving.

Entry-level SE models come with xenon headlights, a powered tailgate, three-zone climate control and a 7.0in colour screen. We think the Sport trim is worth the extra, though, because it adds sat-nav, leather seats and powered front seats with four-way lumbar adjustment to that tally.

A worthwhile option to consider is the Technology Pack. This adds an upgraded infotainment system with more features and a bigger 8.3in screen, as well as wireless phone-charging and Audi’s excellent Virtual Cockpit digital dials. It is quite pricey, though.

Safety systems are good, with six airbags and an effective automatic emergency braking system as standard. It’s a shame that blindspot warning and lane assist are expensive additions but, even so, the A5 Sportback attained five stars in its Euro NCAP test, with excellent scores in each category tested.

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