2016 Audi A5

New for 2016

The Audi A5 welcomes a number of changes for the 2016 model year, chief of among them is the now standard S Line package, and the availability of Audi Connect on the base Premium trim. Meanwhile, a Bang & Olufsen sound system is now standard on Premium Plus models, and Audi has dropped the Prestige trim level as well as its formerly optional collision mitigation system.

Governed by Desire 

Have you reached a point in your life where your decision to buy a car is governed not by what is sensible but by what you desire? Do you seek a vehicle that will elicit an emotional response every time you hear the roar of its engine; something so powerful so elegant and luxury-filled that others simply can’t help but look on in awe?  If so, we strongly recommend exploring the 2016 Audi A5.

Powertrains and Performance

You know you’re experience something completely different the moment you step inside the 2016 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 2016 A5 instills confidence wherever it goes. The nicely calibrated suspension delivers a rewarding balance of athletic cornering and livable 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 and Trims

The 2016 Audi A5 starts at $40,500 for coupe models and $47,900 for the A5 Cabriolet.** There are two trim levels: Premium and Premium Plus.

Standard exterior features for Premium models include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, LED running lights and taillights, and heated mirrors. For 2016, all Premium models now get the contents of the S Line package, which includes unique bumpers, side sills, fender badges, and door sill inserts.

In addition to those standard features, the A5 Premium also gets 10-way power front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and Bluetooth® phone connectivity.

Tech lovers will also appreciate the A5’s robust list of standard technologies, including Audi’s MMI infotainment system, 6.5-inch display, and 10-speaker sound system—complete with CD player, satellite radio, and Audi’s own digital music interface.

The Premium Plus adds additional amenities like auto-dimming mirrors, heated front seats, and keyless ignition/entry. The Premium Plus also upgrades the already stellar 10-speaker sound system to a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen system (12 speaker for the A5 Cabriolet).

Naturally the goods don’t stop there. Should you be so inclined, A5 Premium models can be furthered enhanced with an optional MMI Navigation Plus package. Meanwhile, Premium Plus models can add a Technology package that features all the contents of the MMI Navigation Plus package plus a blind-spot monitor, front and rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera.

Other packages include a Sport Package, a Sports Plus package, S Line Competition Plus package, and Comfort package.

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 2016 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.

The standard leather-clad seats provide excellent support, but if you plan on really exploring the A5’s performance potential, we recommend upgrading to the available sport seat with bigger side bolsters. Other high points include the driver-focused gauges and center stack, which are sporty and functional. Even Audi’s MMI infotainment system is straightforward to use, which can’t be said for many of the A5’s competitors.

Overall, it’s the attention to detail that separates the A5’s interior from the pack.

Safety

Sporty and safety don’t always walk hand-in-hand but that’s not the case with the 2016 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.

Bottom Line

It’s no secret we're thoroughly impressed with the 2016 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: Audi