Audi A5 Review

2009 Audi A5 quattro Coupe

Audi has been making a concerted effort in recent years to expand its product line. One of its newest products is the A5 midsize coupe. Inspired by the company's stunning 2003 Nuvolari grand touring concept, the A5 is a slightly less practical but much sexier two-door alternative to mainstream luxury sedans. It boasts standard V6 power, all-wheel drive, a refined interior and plenty of standard or optional luxury features.

Those shopping for a sport-oriented luxury coupe would be wise to check out the Audi A5. Its combination of striking good looks, all-wheel drive and everyday practicality is hard to ignore.

Current Audi A5

The Audi A5 was introduced for the 2008 model year. Mechanically, it's related to the latest-generation A4 sedan. Motivation is provided by a 3.2-liter direct-injected V6 that puts out 265 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Power is directed through either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. (The S5 coupe is similar but comes with a robust V8.)

A key advantage for those who those are subject to slippery weather conditions is the A5's Quattro all-wheel drive, a feature not available from this Audi's peers. With a 40/60-percent front-to-rear power split, the Quattro system provides a rear-wheel-drive car's crisp handling dynamics along with the extra grip of all-wheel drive.

Those who value sophisticated design as much as performance will feel right at home in the Audi A5. This is arguably one of the best-looking coupes on the market. The sporty silhouette, distinctive Audi one-piece grille and shapely tail end team up to create an extraordinarily appealing look.

The same is true of the A5's handsome four-place cabin. The interior materials are first-rate, and the A5's multi-adjustable front seats offer daylong touring comfort along with an appropriate measure of support during spirited driving. Expanding upon the limited capacity of the company's TT roadster, the rear seat area offers room for two additional passengers, though taller individuals can expect a fairly tight fit. The generous trunk offers more than 16 cubic feet of space, and the rear seat flips down to accommodate even more cargo.

The midsize Audi A5 luxury sport coupe is offered in a single trim level equipped with standard features such as automatic tri-zone climate control, a 10-speaker audio system and finely tailored leather and wood trim. Popular options include bi-xenon headlights, park assist with a rearview camera, a navigation system, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system and an S line package featuring sport suspension with 19-inch alloy wheels, unique front and rear fascias, sport seats and aluminum interior accents.

As slick as it is, the Audi A5 faces some tough competition against rivals like BMW's 3 Series coupe, Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class and Infiniti G37. All are excellent choices, but shoppers desiring a coupe that provides a pleasing blend of style, performance and all-wheel-drive security would do well to check out the A5.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.