Audi A5 3.0 TDI 2009 review

...the A5 retains the elegance of a traditional grand tourer while continuing Audi’s general shift toward sportier, more dynamic vehicles.

This new diesel version, with its quality engine, improved fuel economy and CO2 output has entered the market at just the right time to take advantage of the growing interest in keeping things lean and green.

Drivetrain

The A5 is powered by a 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine that produces 176kW between 4000-4400rpm and a substantial 500Nm of torque between 1500-3000rpm. It gets power to all four wheels via a six-speed tiptronic transmission with DSP.

Shooting from 0-100 in a rapid 5.9 seconds, it burns 6.9 litres of fuel every 100km and expels 182gm of CO2 per 100km.

Exterior

Like the A4, the A5 is underscored by Audi’s intent to position their vehicles as athletic as well as elegant. To this end, they have included a focus on road presence, muscle and poise, and its shows with a longer, wider, lower chassis, shaped by graceful, sweeping lines and short front overhangs.

The long v-shaped bonnet coupled with sleek right-angled headlights and large air inlets create an impression of breadth in the nose that highlights the distinguishing single-framed waterfall grill.

The short, sporty rear is emphasised by long smooth lines starting from the C-pillar.

Interior

Inside the A5 you are surrounded by quality materials and workmanship. The dash is angled slightly towards the driver creating a snug cockpit feel and the ergonomic seats hold you firm at the wheel.

A 10-speaker sound system, leather upholstery, cruise control, electric front seats, Bluetooth compatibility, leather multi-function steering wheel and auto-dimming rear-view mirror are all standard, as is the drive information system – with trip computer, auto-check control and ambient temperature.

Split fold rear seats and a decent 455-litre boot allow comfortable trips away.

Running Gear

The long wheelbase and shorter overhangs, along with a newly designed five-link suspension arrangement at the front wheels means the A5 is firm but not stiff, with precise steering and superb agility.

The ride is comfortable, smooth and stable thanks to the trapezoidal-link rear suspension with new kinematics.

Safety

A comprehensive airbag package together with ESP, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Differential Lock, traction control and Brake Assist, pushes the A5 into the superior safety category.

Pricing

The Audi A5 3.0 litre diesel quattro starts at $93,894.

Driving

The A5 is a great looking driver’s car and this new diesel variant is very impressive.

After having just stepped out of a Japanese luxury hybrid, it felt a little stiff but just a few minutes in and we realised what we’d been missing – and that the Japanese car was just like driving a couch.

Audi’s ever improving interior design makes for an agreeable place to spend extended periods and this one with its angled dash gave us that cosy cockpit feel. The instrumentation was easy to read and intuitive.

With a 5.9 second 0-100 sprint, it’s no secret this diesel addition to the A5 range is a real performer. Acceleration is immediate and smooth and with a bit of room it will pin your scone into the headrest no trouble.

The ride is firm enough to give you good feel but easygoing enough for longer journeys. The steering is light and true, allowing for great feedback.

All wheel drive plus the firm suspension pack keeps the car stuck to the road surface and there is little body roll.

The diesel is a great addition to an already impressive line-up.

Verdict: 8.2