Audi A5 Coupe 2.0 TDi 190 Ultra Sport

What is it?

We try the two-door Audi A5 Coupe 2.0 TDi 190 Ultra Sport version of the all-new Audi A5, replacing the outgoing first-generation model which lasted nine years.

It might look similar to the Walter Da Silva-styled original, but this is an all-new car, that’s lighter, is supposed to offer a sharper drive, together with lower emissions.

Well, the second-generation A5 coupe has finally hit UK shores and we’ve got the expected best-seller to drive – the 187bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel, which with its ‘Ultra’ Audi fuel-saving technology has 106g/km emissions and is capable of an impressive 70.6mpg on the combined cycle.

We’ve tried this new A5 in Sport trim, but SE and S-Line trims are also available.

What’s hot

•  The 187bhp 2.0-litre diesel, which accelerates to 60mph in just 7.7 secs and has a top speed of 130mph. Yet, despite the performance, like the A4 it’s 60kg lighter, meaning it is still capable of 70.6mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 106g/km. It is well-matched to the slick-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission and brings a 21% tax band.
• Composed and competent probably best describe the way this A5 drives – despite the ‘Sport’ The new electro-mechanical steering is precise, this A5 also has pleasingly sharp body control meaning tidy handling in corners.

• In terms of its looks, Audi admit they’ve deliberately not moved far away from a top-selling formula – as the basic coupe shape looks unchanged from the original, although there’s some neat 3D definition to the shoulder line that’s all new. Other changes start at the front, with the larger, lower and wider front family grille. Then, there’s the curvier look to the standard xenon headlight and the bonnet. The back is probably the most ordinary part of this design, although with the 3D design of the rear lights, it’s still neat.
•  Inside, the A5 has received an A4-inspired makeover and the result is definite step upwards in terms of quality. We like the horizontal look to the dash, plus the premium feels to the trim and switchgear. The driving position is comfy and multi-adjustable and the front seats supportive. There’s even a practical 465-litre boot!
• This Audi feels impressively premium when you look at the standard safety kit too, with Adaptive brake assist, Forward collision & stop and a Lane Departure Warning, all fitted as standard.

What’s not 

• On top of this A5 not feeling particularly sporty, our test car was fitted with optional 18-inch alloys which don’t help the stiff ride and kick up plenty of road noise too.
• The Audi Drive Select adaptive damping system is fitted as standard, but it’s difficult to tell the difference between the drive settings.
• The new A5 is longer than the old one, but access, space and headroom are all tight in the back.

Verdict

The new A5 Coupe in 2.0TDI 190 Ultra Sport form will do deservedly well with business buyers, as it’s fine to drive, looks sharp and has an enviable performance/consumption balance.

So how does it compare to its key rival – the BMW 4-Series? Closest model to the A5 2.0 TDi 190 Ultra Sport is the 420d Sport. The BMW is looking good from the start as it’s cheaper by £805.

The BMW is also the sportier drive, although for an SME the emissions and tax band are going to be key and this is where the Audi looks stronger, with 106g/km and a 21% charge versus this BMW’s higher 23% charge with 119g/km emissions.

 The lowdown on: Audi A5 Coupe 2.0TDI 190 Ultra Sport

What it Costs: