2011 Audi A5

When people talk about the quintessential upscale midsized car, then the first word that would come to their mind may undoubtedly be Audi. This German company has established itself as one of the finest and most popular manufacturers of luxury cars, with the vision of fuel efficiency, comfortable handling, and attractive interior and exterior designs. One of the usual choices of the people is the 2011 Audi A5.

The A5 is available in several trims. The most basic trim is the 2.0T Premium. This trim features power front seats that have lumbar support for ergonomic comfort, 18-inch wheels fitted with tires suitable for all seasons, automatic climate control, tilting glass panorama sunroof, three-spoke, multi-function steering wheel wrapped in leather, and seats covered with leather.

The next tier in line is the 2.0T Premium Plus, which has all the features of the 2.0T Premium along with other features like Bluetooth connectivity for cellular phones, LED taillights, three-zone automatic climate control, xenon plus headlights that have LED daytime lights, and heated front seats. The last trim available is the Prestige, which takes in all the features of the 2.0T Premium Plus and other new features like the Bang and Olufsen Sound System, the MMI Navigation Plus, a parking system, an advanced key, and a set of auto-dimming exterior mirrors.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Audi A5 performs well in line with current car standards, but it still lacks some features to make it perfect. As the 3.2-L V6 engine production has been halted, the 2.0T engine of the A5 does not give a surprising output thanks to the weight of the whole car. It would not seem like it, but the car is actually heavier compared to other similar cars. This may be a problem, but the best attribute of the car is its excellent design.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior detail and design is absolutely stunning and gorgeous, and is often regarded as one of the most recognizable faces of Audi. The Prestige and Premium Plus trims even get a greater fashion advantage with the addition of the optional Titanium Sport Package. The interior, although it could not match the stunning design of the exterior, looks neat nonetheless with its high-quality materials.

Safety

In terms of safety, the A5 has not been subjected to official crash tests yet, but it features all the standard car safety measures like side, side curtain and front airbags and the Quattro all-wheel drive system that increases stability. It also has a new crash sensor, which operates by unlocking the doors, powering the interior lights and hazards, and shuts the engine and pump in case an accident occurs.

Based on three-year tests of dependability and initial quality, the A5 is a reliable purchase with its 50000-mile or four-year warranty, free 24-hour roadside assistance for four years, and the 12-year limited corrosion perforation warranty.

Competition

People may still search for other alternatives. If that is the case, then a good choice might be the Lexus IS convertible (MSRP $41,190; 19 city/ 27 hwy), which starts with a 2.5-L V6 with 204 horsepower followed by a 3.5-L V6 with 306 horsepower trim. They both have a folding, metal head-top; unfortunately, when the top is down, it would reduce the trunk space. It also only comes in rear-wheel drive. Another good choice is the BMW-328i series (MSRP $37,650; 18 city/28 hwy) with its better sports functions. It has outstanding handling and suspensions, but it could prove too much during casual rides.

Pros & Cons

The 2011 Audi A5 has some notable setbacks like its lackluster performance and tight back seating, but its stable handling with the Quattro system, top-class exterior, quickly-retractable soft top, and comfortable interior make it a worthwhile purchase.

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“The Audi A5 Coupe and Cabriolet bear one of the most elegant bodies in autodom, and drive with a light, easy touch.”Car Connection

“More sporty than luxurious, but materials are of high quality throughout the cabin.”Consumer Guide

“Space around the driver is rather limited, with a narrow foot well and tight knee space. At least the tilt-and-telescope steering wheel has generous adjustments and the center armrest moves fore and aft, which helps make the confined space more livable.”Consumer Report

“Quirky steering feel; unintuitive control layout; acceleration not as quick as many rivals.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $36,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 31 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 182.5 in. (462.5 cm) Width: 78 in. (198.1 cm)
Height: 54 in. (137 cm) Curb Weight: 3583 lbs (1625 kg)
Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 12.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4
Performance
Engine: Audi 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC inline 4 Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 211 hp Max RPM: 6000 rpm
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds 1/4 Mile: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:2.0T Premium Plus MSRP: $40,600; MPG: 19 city / 21 hwy
Option:2.0T Prestige MSRP: $45,600; MPG: 19 city / 21 hwy
Option:2.0T Premium Cabriolet MSRP: $42,000; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:2.0T Premium Plus Cabriolet MSRP: $45,700; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:2.0T Prestige Cabriolet MSRP: $50,700; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:S5 4.2 FSI® Premium Plus Coupe MSRP: $53,650; MPG: 14 city / 22 hwy
Option:S5 4.2 FSI® Prestige Coupe MSRP: $45,600; MPG: 14 city / 22 hwy
Option:S5 Cabriolet 3.0 TFSI® Premium Plus MSRP: $59,050; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy
Option:S5 Cabriolet 3.0 TFSI® Prestige MSRP: $64,950; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy

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