Audi A5 (2007-2016) review – prices, specs and rivals

Obvious rivals include the BMW 4 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class/E-Class Coupés, but the A5 is just as likely to draw customers out of smaller coupés and even compact executive saloons. Prices start at £29,190 for the 1.8 TFSI in SE specification, but there’s no such thing as a sub-£30,000 A5 given the extensive (and often expensive) temptation of the options list.

The big-selling 2.0 TDI Ultra starts at £31,590 in its single SE trim level. SE includes cruise control, three-zone climate control, heated seats, DAB audio, Bluetooth, auto headlights and windscreen wipers and a driver monitoring system that notifies the driver if they need a rest.

S line costs £2720 over SE, that increasing the alloy wheel size from 17- to 18 inches, adding Sport Suspension, an MMI navigation system with a 40Gb hard drive, Nappa leather upholstery, Xenon Plus headlights with LED running lights and LED taillights, as well as the sharper interior and exterior S line styling. It’s little wonder S line models are such big sellers, as the relatively insignificant outlay adds a host of desirable kit.

Paying £1515 more for the Black Edition Plus adds 19-inch alloys in gloss black, black trim highlights inside and out and improved Bang & Olufsen audio and communication equipment. If the standard equipment doesn’t suit, Audi offers bespoke trimming via its exclusive department.