2017 Audi A5 Sportback and S5 Sportback shown at Paris show

Engines and gearbox

Like the coupé, the Sportback gets 2.0-litre TFSI petrol and 2.0-litre TDI diesel turbocharged four-cylinder units in various states of tune and the range is topped by a 282bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder TDI diesel.

The A5 Sportback is offered with the choice of a six-speed manual or eight-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

As with the coupé, a performance-focused S5 model is available with a 3.0-litre TFSI petrol unit that produces 349bhp. A g-tron model that can run on natural gas is offered on the European continent, but not in the UK due to a lack of refuelling infrastructure.

Chassis

The model has front-wheel drive as standard, but quattro four-wheel drive is offered as an option and comes as standard on the 282bhp 3.0-litre and S5 variants. Those two models also get optional sport differentials to further boost traction.

The entry-level car sits on 17in wheels, with 18in wheels available for higher-spec models. Top-of-the-range A5s and the S5 get 19in wheels.

As standard, the A5 Sportback features variable suspension that uses continuous damping control technology. The system works in tandem with the car’s four driving modes: Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Efficiency.

Technology

As with the coupé, the A5 Sportback gives buyers the choice of an optional Virtual Cockpit system, which includes a 12.3in high-definition digital instrument panel, as well as the latest evolution of Audi’s MMI (Multi Media Interface) Plus infotainment system. This uses an 8.3in monitor, touch-sensitive rotary controller and LTE connectivity for up to three years free of charge via a SIM card permanently installed in the car.

There’s also optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless smartphone charging pad and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.