By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(October 3, 2018) Most fans of Audi already know they make a terrific A5 model as a two-door coupe or convertible. But for 2018, they’ve expanded the A5 moniker to include the all-new S5 Sportback and the A5 Sportback tested here, by concocting a four-door hatchback that mimics the look of its larger upmarket A7 hatchback.

That’s an audacious move for Audi, given most intellectuals believe they are watching a certain death scene acting out for the family sedan, in favor of anything SUV, CUV or truck. Further, it’s also worth noting that Americans have never had a predilection for the hatchback, yet Audi has decided to combine those two vehicles into one called the Sportback.

The A5 Sportback is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s good for 252 horsepower. Audi puts that engine in just about everything but their coffee. It’s connected to a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission. The S5 Sportback derives 354 horsepower from a 3.0-liter V-6, for those who need more speed. While we didn’t drive the S5, we had no complaints with the amount of power and performance delivered by the 2.0 turbo that delivered 24-mpg fuel economy in a mix of urban, suburban and interstate driving. Both models come standard with all-wheel drive.

Drivers of the A5 Sportback are provided with a choice of three distinct driving modes: Comfort, Dynamic and Auto. Like Goldilocks, we found the “Comfort” setting, well… a bit too comfortable and soft for our liking. Dynamic, while the most enjoyable and not short on power, might prove to be too much for daily driving. That leaves the Auto setting that felt “just right,” with the exact response to our driving needs and conditions.



The new Sportback has seating for up to five passengers, although taller adults will want dibs on the front seat, given the compromised rear headroom due to the sloping roofline. 

While our Sportback’s interior is predominantly black, there’s plenty of aesthetic pleasure with nighttime driving. The optional illuminated LED plus package of lights accent the interior and looks spectacular. The three-dimensional decorative inlay trim with climate control integration spans from door panels across the entire instrument panel and adds breadth and lightness.

Our test Sportback included the optional ($7,600) Prestige Package with upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D sound that’s both the acoustical and visual highlight of the interior. The package also includes Audi’s MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, head-up display, heated power front seats, parking system plus with top view camera system, and Audi’s virtual cockpit that replaces traditional analog speedometer and gauges with an immersive digital display. Of all the digital instrument clusters that exist on the market today, Audi’s is unquestionably the best.

The newest MMI infotainment system is fairly easy to use, but you’ll have to first spend some time to learn it. The graphics are excellent and redundant buttons a welcome addition. The touch pad, located at the front of the center console just below the center stack, allows the user to write numbers and letters with a finger, instead of using the vehicle’s mouse knob or voice recognition feature.

For example, you can write the address of a destination for navigation and the system will recognize your writing. Make a mistake? Simply swipe your finger to the left and it will delete the error. The system will also auto fill, and everything you write will be on the navigation screen. A panoramic sun roof is standard.

While the A5 Sportback is the four-door version of the two-door Audi A5 Coupe (itself the two-door version of the regular four-door A4) it’s worth questioning whether it’s worth spending the extra $6,600 over the A4 Premium sedan. It comes with the same engine and transmission and doesn’t offer a more dynamic package than the regular A4. However if you prefer the looks of the Sportback over the sedan, that’s an individual choice. Just don’t expect a different experience behind the wheel.

Overall, the A5 Sportback is an excellent vehicle with few faults. With its athletic handling, standard all-wheel drive, supremely comfortable interior, and added cargo space, it delivers great performance and stylish good looks, designed for enjoyable driving every time you get behind the wheel. Still, it’s a bold move for Audi to add yet another sedan to the product mix.

Vital Stats
Base Price:  $43,575
Price as Tested: $56,450
Powerplant: 2.0-liter 252-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 7-speed S-Tronic automatic transmission
EPA Fuel Economy: 24-MPG City – 34-MPG Highway – 27-MPG Combined
Seating: 5

Crash Test Ratings: Overall highest possible five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Where Built: Ingolstadt, Germany

Competes With:
Alfa Romeo Giulia
BMW 4-Series
Jaguar XE

Fab Features:
Classy interior
Strong engine
Sportback roof design