2017 Audi A5
A Fond Farewell
Nine years is practically a lifetime in the automotive industry, but that's how long the current generation A5 has been around. More than anything else, it's a testament to how well the model was designed in the first place. With the next-generation A5 due to arrive next year, Audi is sending off the compelling coupe in style by offering the 2017 A5 model in one fully appointed trim, which means now could be the best time to get a great deal on one of the most popular and enduring Audi models ever created.
Performance
You know you’re experiencing something completely different the moment you step inside the 2017 Audi A5, engage the ignition, and listen to the sound of its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
On fixed-roof A5 coupe models, the engine is mated to a standard six-speed manual. An eight-speed automatic is also available on coupe models and comes standard with the Cabriolet (convertible).
Regardless of body style, the engine delivers a powerful and prodigious 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The standard 2.0-liter engine is brisk, fun, and delivers when called upon.
Whether navigating highway lanes or tackling back-country roads, the 2017 A5 instills confidence wherever it goes. The nicely calibrated suspension delivers a rewarding balance of athletic cornering and comfortable ride. The A5 also benefits from Audi’s patented quattro® all-wheel drive, which enhances dry pavement performance and adds an extra layer of confidence when road conditions turn slick.
You’d think a car like the A5, one that delivers an impressive degree of power and performance, would offer mediocre gas mileage, but you’d be wrong. Coupe models earn an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined (22 city/32 highway) with the manual transmission,* and 25 mpg combined 21 city/30 highway) for the automatic.* The A5 convertible earns slightly less, 24 combined (21 city/29 highway).*
Features
The 2017 Audi A5 starts at $41,200 for coupe models and $48,600 for the A5 Cabriolet.**
For the 2017 model year, the sole A5 Sport trim comes well-equipped. Highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, headlight washers, LED running lights, rain-sensing wipers, heated mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, a sunroof, and rear spoiler.
Inside, the A5 is equally attractive. Standard interior features include tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, 10-way power adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar, split-folding rear seats, a universal garage door opener, Bluetooth® and a 10-speaker stereo with satellite radio and iPhone input. The cabriolet adds a power-folding cloth top and a wind blocker.
Additional options are available and come in the form of bundled packages. These include a Convenience package (keyless entry/ignition, auto-dimming mirrors, heated front seats); a Sport package (a sport-tuned suspension, selectable drive modes, a black headliner, front sport seats); a Black Optic package (19-inch gloss black wheels with summer tires and black exterior trim); and a Technology package (adaptive headlights, a blind-spot monitor, a color trip computer screen, a navigation system, a rearview camera, Audi's MMI infotainment system with a controller mounted on the center console, Google maps and services, a Wi-Fi hotspot and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen® stereo with CD/DVD player).
Design
If Apple were to design cars we think they’d look a lot like Audis. The Cupertino tech giant has gained popularity for designing devices that are simple, elegant, and unapologetically high-end. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?
The 2017 A5’s design is no different. You won’t find superfluous lines spanning its profile or heavy-handed use of chrome, instead, the beauty of Audi models derives from their understated elegance and simplicity. Think of the A5 as a tailored suit designed to serve you wherever you go.
Inside, the A5 continues to impress. Rather than compromise form over function, Audi designers blended the two design philosophies. Not only is the interior sharply dressed, it was designed with easy day-to-day usability in mind.
Safety
Sporty and safety don’t always walk hand-in-hand but that’s not the case with the 2017 A5. Sprinkled throughout the vehicle is a robust list of standard safety features that includes antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side and knee airbags (coupe models), and full-length side curtain airbags.
Drivers can also supplement the A5’s safety with a list of available technologies that includes a blind-spot monitoring system, a rearview camera, and front and rear parking sensors.
Verdict
It’s no secret we're thoroughly impressed with the 2017 Audi A5. Its unique blend of style, performance, and luxury make it a winner. But we’re not here to convince, we’re here to inform. And you won’t truly understand the A5’s potential until you contact or visit us at Audi Silver Spring for a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
** Prices listed are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options you chose. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs or other dealer charges.
Image Credit: Audi