Audi A5 Sportback

With more curves and cuts than your average Audi sedan, the A5 Sportbacks look distinctive. Of course, the highlight of the design is their ‘sportback’ tail while frameless doors also add to the sense of occasion. The style does come with its compromises. Rear seat headroom is limited and passengers at the back can’t sprawl out as they can in an A4. Up front, it’s very A4. Quality is really good but the cabin is a bit lacking in flair.
The Audi A5’s 190hp, 2.0-litre, diesel engine is really refined and the ready access to power makes the car feel light on its feet too. However, the engine won’t get your pulse racing and the numb steering is a dampener too. The Audi S5 Sportback is a whole different story. Its 354hp 3.0 V6 is not only strong but also sounds really good. The S5 is also grippy and predictable in its handling if not quite as engaging as rivals. Good ride quality is a highlight on both A5 Sportbacks.

Given that there is no overlap between A5 35 TDI and S5 prices, they are not direct alternatives to each other. Money no object, however, we’d pick the S5. It’s got the go to match the show and blends sportscar performance with everyday usability.