2018 Audi A5: Redefines entry level luxury coupe
The Audi A5 joined the German carmaker’s lineup in 1997 replacing the Audi 80. But for 2018, the Audi A5 is a new generation. And its design and features further designate the car’s position in the entry-level luxury coupe segment as an oxymoron.
The new Audi A5 is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 252 horsepower and advances with a seven-speed automatic transmission. It accelerates smoothly and quickly, albeit with a brief turbo lag.
The A5’s power is evidenced by its acceleration in the 0-60 miles per hour standard in 5.0 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system is impressive while cornering, particularly at higher speeds. The A5’s stability and braking are reassuring.
Manual transmissions are nearing dinosaur status, but the Audi A5 is available with a manual transmission for purists who still enjoy the pleasures of shifting gears. It’s the same price as the automatic transmission. Gas mileage averages are 24 miles per gallon in the city, 34 miles per gallon in freeway driving.
Audi is known for its extensive lists of standard and optional features. The three A5 trims all include leather seats, adjustable power front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, rearview camera and 18-inch wheels. The technology, safety and convenience areas are also chock-full of standard, high-quality features, including eight airbags. It’s a lot of car for the base price of $42,800.
My review vehicle, the coupe 2.0T, featured the Premium Plus ($3,000), Navigation ($2,600), S Line Sport ($1,250) and S Line Wheel ($800) optional packages. It also included a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 19 speakers ($950). With its $975 destination fee, the so-called entry-level luxury coupe costs just under $53,000.
That’s enough for the words entry level to be eliminated for further descriptions. But the optional packages are worthy, particularly the Premium Plus package. Its eight features include: LED headlights, heated 10-way power front seats and an alarm system. There’s also blind-spot monitoring, a
rear cross-traffic and car-exit warning system as well as heated front seats and a hands-free trunk release.
The virtual cockpit, a 12.3-inch customizable display, replaces the instrument panel. The speedometer and tachometer can be reduced to showcase Google Earth views or a map. For me, the futuristic feature was a distraction. For others, it’s likely technology at its finest.
The new Audi A5’s exterior is sleek with handsome, angular lines. It’s a coupe with a sports car personality, inside and outside. Complementing the smooth, confident and comfortable ride, Audi’s German engineering personality is also applied in small, important touches.
Dials throughout the dashboard turn with the precision of a safe tumbler. The car locks with a pleasant-sounding hum, not the overt noise of many car locks. The navigation system works with the same precision, with address spelling selections also “clicking” into place.
Unlike in other coupes, the rear seats aren’t an afterthought, but occupants don’t have the same spaciousness as front-seat users. Back seat entry and exit is cumbersome, a common coupe characteristic.
The A5 Coupe’s cargo space is unimpressive, only 11.6 cubic feet. It’s large enough for a half-dozen grocery bags, but its configuration bodes well for only smaller, soft-sided suitcases.
The 2018 Audi A5 isn’t the only worthy car in its segment. But drive it for five minutes and you’re at home on the road, advancing in luxury. Nothing about the A5 defines entry level.
James Raia, a syndicated automotive columnist based in Sacramento, has published the website theweeklydriver.com since 2004. He also produces the free Weekly Driver podcast, theweeklydriver.podbean.com. Contact the author via email: james@ jamesraia.com.