This A5’s an Audi, which means a top notch interior is expected, and in this case, it’s delivered. For starters, this A5 gets leather upholstery, excellent three-zone climate control and colour control screen as standard.
For Audi regulars, the cabin design is instantly familiar, yet also sufficiently unique. The design detail is another step-up from the now dated A4, and although more closely related to A6, is more indulgent in feel.
The A5 is the first Audi to mimic BMW’s blade key system, yet with a more glitzy design. Opt for the advanced key (£495) and you needn’t remove the fob from your pocket - simply press the start button. With the exception of the clutch pedal (set too far to the right), the controls are well-placed and driving position excellent.
Access to the rear is good, although egress more awkward. Legroom is sufficient for all but the longest of leg, but the sloping roofline does mean anyone approaching six feet will be squeezed against the headlining. No question, the A5 is capable of transporting four full height adults, but a cross-continent cruiser it isn’t.
The 445-litre boot is a fraction larger than that of the BMW, and boosted by folding rear seats, but the marginally narrow boot aperture could frustrate for more awkward loads.
At £33,430, the A5 is priced exactly as you’d expect, fractionally more than the equivalent BMW (330d SE) and less than the equivalent Mercedes (CLK320 Cdi). As with all these cars it’s easily possible to spend substantially more (our test car had almost £10,000 of toys), but of its direct rivals the Audi offers the most standard kit, including leather, xenon headlamps and rear parking sensors.
The Audi will cost less to run too, the revised 3.0-litre V6 TDi engine has improved economy and emissions despite the increased performance, and betters the BMW and Mercedes. With a realistic 32.4mpg average and 25% tax band still no bargain to run, but equally not ruinous.