Audi A5 Review 2026

June 2016

Audi A5 Coupe launched

The new Audi A5 Coupé will launch in the UK with five engines: two TFSI and three TDI units. Their power output has increased considerably and is now between 190PS and 286PS.

With its newly developed 3.0 TFSI, the Audi S5 Coupe produces 354PS of power, which is 21PS more than the engine in the previous model.

The new Audi A5 Coupé comes with a drivetrain solution tailor-made for each engine variant. The manual six-speed gearbox and the seven-speed S tronic are used with the four-cylinder engines as well as the 218PS 3.0 TDI with front- or all-wheel drive. The eight-speed tiptronic is reserved for the top diesel with 286PS and the S5 engine. Both engines come standard with quattro all-wheel drive. Audi also offers the optional rear-axle sport differential for even more dynamic driving and precision.

The new quattro with ultra technology, which debuted on the new Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TFSI, is also available on the Audi A5 Coupé. At the moment it can be combined with the four-cylinder TFSI and TDI engines with manual transmission. Optimised for efficiency, the drive system does not exhibit any perceptible differences to permanent systems in terms of traction and driving dynamics.

A new electromechanical power steering setup adapts according to the vehicle’s current speed and provides highly precise road feedback. Optionally available is the dynamic steering, which varies its gear ratio depending on the speed and steering angle.

The interior benefits from the increased dimensions and longer wheelbase. Space for driver and passengers is more generous. The horizontal architecture of the instrument panel and the continuous air vent strip create a wide sense of space.

The luggage compartment offers a volume of 465 litres, 10 litres more than with the previous model. The rear seat has a 40:20:40 split and can be easily folded forward using levers in the luggage compartment. Audi also offers the two-door coupé with optional gesture control for opening the luggage compartment lid via a foot motion. The optional trailer hitch is electrically released at the press of a button.

The A5 Coupé is now available for the first time with the optional Audi virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch TFT display with a resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels. Together with the MMI navigation plus including 8.3-inch monitor on the centre console, it forms the central information unit. The focal point of the MMI terminal is the round rotary pushbutton.

For very discerning hi-fi fans, the Bang & Olufsen sound system with its innovative 3D sound is available as an option.

October 2016

Audi announced price and spec for A5 Coupe and Sportback

Heading up the highly intelligent new range, and available to order at the same time in both Coupé and Sportback form is an even faster, more powerful and more efficient S5 quattro, now featuring a turbocharged V6 TFSI. Power has ramped up to 354PS, propelling both three-door and five-door versions to 62mph in just 4.7 seconds.

A choice of three TDI and two TFSI power units are available in the new A5 Coupe. The four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TDI both produce 190PS and can be configured with either a six-speed manual or 7-speed S tronic transmission. An ultra version of the TDI in the Coupé offers the same power, torque (400Nm between 1,750 and 3,000rpm) and 0-62mph performance (7.7 seconds), but combines this with the potential for even greater economy returns of up to 70.6mpg combined and 105g/km compared to the already impressive peak of 67.3mpg combined and 111g/km for the 'standard' 2.0 TDI.

A 2.0 TFSI producing 252PS and 370Nm of torque is mated exclusively to quattro all-wheel drive. In the Coupé, 0-62mph takes a mere 5.8 seconds. The combined 47.9mpg potential and 136g/km is unchanged regardless of the silhoutte.

At the top end of the scale, a V6 TDI with 218PS is offered in conjunction with quattro drive and S tronic transmission in the Coupe. It boasts a 6.2-second 62mph sprint time and 155mph top speed despite CO 2 of as little as 119g/km and up to 58.9mpg combined.

In keeping with the rest of the Audi range, the hierarchy for A5 Coupé and Sportback consists of SE, Sport and S line specification levels. The lead-in SE option now features more equipment than ever, including a host of infotainment and driver assistance systems.

These range from the Audi Smartphone Interface connection hosting Apple Carplay and Android Auto, and the front and rear Audi Parking System Plus to the Audi pre-sense City which warns the driver of a imminent collision and can initiate emergency braking and the multi-collision brake assist, capable of reducing further impacts through full braking. Also new to the A5 range is the Audi connect Safety and Service package. Fitted as standard, an embedded SIM card enables occupants to dial an emergency or assistance call service with a one-touch button function inside the car.

All SE models are fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, and come equipped with xenon headlights aided by LED daytime running lights. Further highlights include Audi Drive Select, a deluxe three-zone electronic climate control system and a power-operated tailgate for Sportback models (coupé models come fitted with an electric boot lid release mechanism).

Sport models build on this further by incorporating an LED interior lighting pack, electrically adjustable sports seats with 4-way lumbar support upholstered in Twin leather, SD card-based MMI navigation and a three-month free trial of Audi connect.

Standout features on the sharper S line in addition to the customary visual enhancements are 18-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension, LED front and rear lights with dynamic rear indicators and front sports seats upholstered in leather/Alcantara.

A5 SE pricing

A5 Sport pricing

A5 S line pricing

S5 pricing

February 2019

Audi announces new Black Edition and Vorsprung models

Black Edition specification brings larger 19-inch or 20-inch (depending on model) alloy wheels in gloss black, a black styling pack adding a Matt Titanium Black or Gloss Titanium Black finish to components such as the Single Frame grille surround, air inlets, rear diffuser and door mirror housings, plus darkened rear privacy glass. Inside, decorative inlays receive the same darkening treatment and the addition of a flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel emphasises the more sporting slant. The Audi A5 Black Edition starts at £37,875.

Expanding on the Black Edition specification, highlights of the Vorsprung models include an upgrade to 20-inch, 21-inch or 22-inch alloy wheels in either matt grey or matt titanium (depending on model), and to advanced Matrix LED headlights which can divert their beams around oncoming and leading traffic. The Audi A5 Vorsprung start at £48,875.

April 2019

Diesel engine announced for Audi S5

Audi has replaced the petrol engine in the Audi S5 with a V6 diesel. The 3.0 TDI - set to be introduced in both the S5 Coupe and S5 Sportback later in 2019 - will produced 347PS and 700Nm of torque.

The 3.0 TDI in the S5 models is the most powerful version in the Audi V6 diesel engine line-up. Both the electric powered compressor (EPC) and mild hybrid (MHEV) systems are embedded in the standard 48-volt main electrical circuit. For the first time in the S5 TDI, a powerful 48–volt belt alternator starter is the heart of the mild hybrid system with maximum recuperation power of up to 8 kW. A DC/DC converter steps this voltage down for components in the 12–volt electrical system. A compact, air-cooled lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 0.5 kWh installed under the luggage compartment floor serves as the energy centre.

Acceleration to 62mph in the S5 Coupé takes 4.8 seconds and and 4.9 seconds in the S5 Sportback, with both reaching their peak at an electronically limited 155mph.

Quattro all-wheel-drive is standard, as is a self-locking centre differential. This distributes torque in a ratio of 40:60 betwen the front and rear axle. If a wheel loses traction, the differential will send the majority of the power to the axle with the most grip. An optional sport differential is also available.

Cosmetic upgrades include aluminium door mirrors, a spoiler integrated into the luggage compartment lid and LED rear lights with dynamic turn signals as standard. A flat honeycomb grille is integrated into the rear bumper, while a diffuser insert in titanium black matt frames the two dual chrome tailpipes of the exhaust system.

Inside, the seat coverings – optionally with contrast stitching – are available in either a leather/Alcantara combination or the top grade Fine Nappa leather. Buyers can choose from the colours black, rotor grey and magma red. Sport seats with an embossed S logo are standard.

September 2019

Audi A5 facelift revealed

The Audi A5 Coupe, Sportback and Cabriolet have been updated with new mild hybrid drivetrains and refreshed infotainment systems, along with new S5 diesel models for the Coupe and Sportback.

The exterior has been significantly revised, with the front end, in particular, delivering considerably more visual impact. The Singleframe with the honeycomb grille is wider and flatter, and above it ventilation slits reference the classic Audi Sport quattro from 1984. A bold blade forms the lower edge of the bumper, which features larger air inlets. A new sill provides for a slimmer appearance when viewed from the side, while at the rear a diffuser insert with trapezoidal tailpipes makes the car appear wider.

Customers will have a choice of 12 paint finishes for their A5, including the new shade district green, metallic, and all body and engine variants in the A5 product line will roll off the assembly line with LED headlights as standard equipment. Audi will also offer Matrix LED headlights and Matrix LED headlights with laser light and dynamic light sequencing, both combined with dynamic front and rear indicators, depending on version.

Inside, a large MMI touch display, the control centre of the new operating system, is the focal point of the instrument panel and angled slightly toward the driver. Based on the third-generation modular infotainment platform MIB 3, it offers a user experience similar to a contemporary smartphone via a 10.1-inch touch display with acoustic feedback which replaces the rotary pushbutton used in previous models.

The all-digital Audi virtual cockpit plus is another standard feature of the latest A5 models. The driver can operate the 12.3-inch display with full HD resolution using the multifunction steering wheel with a choice of three views. A head-up display that projects important information into the driver’s direct field of view is also optionally available.

The updated Audi A5 models will be available in Europe with a range of TFSI and TDI engines with outputs ranging from 163PS to 347PS. All engines satisfy the limits of the Euro 6d-temp emissions standard.

At market introduction, four A5 engine variants will be equipped with a mild hybrid system (MHEV). A belt alternator starter, which is connected to the crankshaft, recovers energy during deceleration and stores this in a compact lithium-ion battery. With the four-cylinder engines, the MHEV system is integrated into the 12-volt electrical system, while the S TDI models use a new 48-volt main electrical system.

All A5 models are equipped with an automatic transmission, either a seven-speed S tronic or an eight-speed tiptronic. The three most powerful engines in the range work with quattro drive as standard and the system is also available as an option for the mid-range units.

The suspension in all A5 models has been tuned with an underlying emphasis on comfort but also an appropriately sporting bias. A tauter sport suspension and a suspension with controlled damping are also available depending on version. The latter is integrated into the Audi drive select dynamic handling system which is a standard feature of all UK A5 models, as are the steering, automatic transmission and engine management. Drivers can choose between five Audi drive select profiles to determine how these components work together.

700 Nm of torque and output of 347PS are the headline figures for the new V6 diesel engine at the heart of the updated Audi S5 Sportback and S5 Coupé. The 3.0 TDI offers brawny pulling power, impressive refinement and long range capability, thanks in part to its MHEV system and the electric powered compressor, which supports the turbocharger. Both S TDI models accelerate from 0 to 62mph in under 5 seconds and can touch an electronically limited top speed of 155mph where conditions allow.

An eight-speed tiptronic and permanent quattro all-wheel drive transfer the power in the S5 Sportback and S5 Coupé, and it is marshalled by taut S sport suspension which is also available with the option of damper control. Inside and out, a host of design details point to the unique position of the S TDI models – from the four round exhaust tailpipes to the S mode in the standard Audi virtual cockpit.

Like every open-top Audi, the A5 Cabriolet has a classic fabric top. It is an acoustic hood and opens fully automatically in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph. Targeted reinforcements provide for a highly rigid body. With the top up, the boot of the four-seater has a volume of 370 litres with the split rear seat backs in place.

September 2019

Audi A5 facelift revealed

The Audi A5 Coupe, Sportback and Cabriolet have been updated with new mild hybrid drivetrains and refreshed infotainment systems, along with new S5 diesel models for the Coupe and Sportback.

The exterior has been significantly revised, with the front end, in particular, delivering considerably more visual impact. The Singleframe with the honeycomb grille is wider and flatter, and above it ventilation slits reference the classic Audi Sport quattro from 1984. A bold blade forms the lower edge of the bumper, which features larger air inlets. A new sill provides for a slimmer appearance when viewed from the side, while at the rear a diffuser insert with trapezoidal tailpipes makes the car appear wider.

Customers will have a choice of 12 paint finishes for their A5, including the new shade district green, metallic, and all body and engine variants in the A5 product line will roll off the assembly line with LED headlights as standard equipment. Audi will also offer Matrix LED headlights and Matrix LED headlights with laser light and dynamic light sequencing, both combined with dynamic front and rear indicators, depending on version.

Inside, a large MMI touch display, the control centre of the new operating system, is the focal point of the instrument panel and angled slightly toward the driver. Based on the third-generation modular infotainment platform MIB 3, it offers a user experience similar to a contemporary smartphone via a 10.1-inch touch display with acoustic feedback which replaces the rotary pushbutton used in previous models.

The all-digital Audi virtual cockpit plus is another standard feature of the latest A5 models. The driver can operate the 12.3-inch display with full HD resolution using the multifunction steering wheel with a choice of three views. A head-up display that projects important information into the driver’s direct field of view is also optionally available.

The updated Audi A5 models will be available in Europe with a range of TFSI and TDI engines with outputs ranging from 163PS to 347PS. All engines satisfy the limits of the Euro 6d-temp emissions standard.

At market introduction, four A5 engine variants will be equipped with a mild hybrid system (MHEV). A belt alternator starter, which is connected to the crankshaft, recovers energy during deceleration and stores this in a compact lithium-ion battery. With the four-cylinder engines, the MHEV system is integrated into the 12-volt electrical system, while the S TDI models use a new 48-volt main electrical system.

All A5 models are equipped with an automatic transmission, either a seven-speed S tronic or an eight-speed tiptronic. The three most powerful engines in the range work with quattro drive as standard and the system is also available as an option for the mid-range units.

The suspension in all A5 models has been tuned with an underlying emphasis on comfort but also an appropriately sporting bias. A tauter sport suspension and a suspension with controlled damping are also available depending on version. The latter is integrated into the Audi drive select dynamic handling system which is a standard feature of all UK A5 models, as are the steering, automatic transmission and engine management. Drivers can choose between five Audi drive select profiles to determine how these components work together.

700 Nm of torque and output of 347PS are the headline figures for the new V6 diesel engine at the heart of the updated Audi S5 Sportback and S5 Coupé. The 3.0 TDI offers brawny pulling power, impressive refinement and long range capability, thanks in part to its MHEV system and the electric powered compressor, which supports the turbocharger. Both S TDI models accelerate from 0 to 62mph in under 5 seconds and can touch an electronically limited top speed of 155mph where conditions allow.

An eight-speed tiptronic and permanent quattro all-wheel drive transfer the power in the S5 Sportback and S5 Coupé, and it is marshalled by taut S sport suspension which is also available with the option of damper control. Inside and out, a host of design details point to the unique position of the S TDI models – from the four round exhaust tailpipes to the S mode in the standard Audi virtual cockpit.

Like every open-top Audi, the A5 Cabriolet has a classic fabric top. It is an acoustic hood and opens fully automatically in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph. Targeted reinforcements provide for a highly rigid body. With the top up, the boot of the four-seater has a volume of 370 litres with the split rear seat backs in place.