Audi A5 Sportback review - does it add to the coupe's appeal? - Interior and tech
The new A5 Sportback takes all the good from the coupe and puts it into a more practical package
Interior and tech
Interiors have always been Audi’s forte and the A5 is no different. Sharing its basic layout with the A4 saloon, the A5 is a masterstroke in minimalist design and exceptional detailing. The first thing that strikes you is how simple it looks. The horizontally-biased design hides most of the cars functions within the MMI system, while the often-used controls that you always want close to hand generally are via sets of well-placed physical switches.
If there is one thing to criticise about the interior, it's that like a high spec German kitchen, it’s very impressive, but can feel a bit sterile at the same time. Richer finishes on the seat and dash trim can help combat this feeling, but can be a bit too minimalist and doesn’t feel as luxurious as rivals like a well-specced Mercedes C-class. If you are able to get into the minimalist aesthetic though, the A5 is definitely the best built, most erginomic and 'premium' feeling of all its main rivals.
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As usual with Audi, the interior design is then backed up by superb build quality, the whole interior constructed with the best soft touch materials and genuine metal or wooden trim. Technology wise, the Audi is also ahead of the competition, with the MMI system matching the best i-Drive systems, but beating it on screen resolution, the optional Virtual Cockpit and faster processor.
As standard Audi will give you a 7-inch system, but on the options list is Audi’s Technology package, upgrading the screen to 8 inches and includes Google Earth sat nav mapping, wireless phone charging and an inbuilt Wifi hotspot. Apple car play and Android auto are also included; meanwhile a Bang & Olufsen speaker upgrade and all forms active safety are all further options.
