Best Car Reviews - 2018 Audi A5 Sportback quattro

Introduction

The 2018 Audi A5 Sportback quattro is a stunning example of Audi’s commitment to blending elegance with performance. Released in the autumn of 2017, this vehicle was swiftly embraced by enthusiasts and outperformers, drawing in customers with an eye for luxury and style. The A5 Sportback appeals to those who seek a midsize luxury car that delivers a powerful driving experience coupled with advanced technology and connectivity. Its distinctive combination of versatility and refinement makes it stand out in a crowded market, offering both aesthetic appeal and dynamic capability.

Design and Exterior Features

The A5 Sportback boasts a captivating design that embodies both elegance and sportiness. Its sleek, coupe-inspired shape is paired with a practical four-door layout, enhancing accessibility without compromising on style. With soft curves combined with aggressive lines, it offers a commanding presence on any street.

Striking LED headlights and a bold grille emphasize its sporty aesthetic.
Aerodynamic silhouette complements its performance-oriented nature.
19-inch alloy wheels provide a subtle yet significant upgrade over earlier models.
Power tailgate and panoramic sunroof increase its practicality.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the A5 Sportback offers a cabin that's as luxurious as it is functional, emphasizing Audi's unwavering attention to detail. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials and finishes, delivering a plush yet modern ambiance.

Leather-clad seats offer superb comfort and support.
Three-zone climate control ensures a tailored environment for all passengers.
10-way power-adjustable front seats with memory function enhance driving comfort.
High-resolution digital display and minimalist dashboard design for optimal driver ergonomics.

Performance and Handling

Driven by a turbocharged SIDi 4-cylinder engine, the A5 Sportback quattro delivers a robust and smooth performance. This engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission that ensures seamless power delivery to the all-wheel-drive system.

The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, making it one of the quicker options in this category.
Fuel consumption is rated at approximately 11.0 l/100 km, reflecting its balance of power and efficiency.
Exceptional handling characteristics with precise steering and a flexible suspension for comfortable city and highway drives.
Quattro all-wheel drive ensures stable traction, providing confidence-inspiring handling in various weather conditions.

Technology and Connectivity

Audi's MMI system highlights the technological prowess of the A5 Sportback. Integrated with the latest technology, it ensures that drivers and passengers remain entertained and informed.

8.3-inch central display with rotary controller and handwriting recognition.
Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system for immersive audio experiences.
Bluetooth connectivity and multiple USB ports for seamless device integration.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility to access apps and media.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority with the Audi A5 Sportback quattro, equipped with a variety of advanced safety technologies designed to protect all occupants.

Pre-sense basic and city systems detect potential collisions and prepare the vehicle for impact.
Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert offer additional layers of protection.
Lane-keeping assist provides gentle steering interventions to help keep the car within lane markings.
2025 Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating, underscoring its comprehensive safety package.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2018 Audi A5 Sportback quattro starts at around $49,000, with higher trims offering even more luxurious features. Its pricing is competitive when compared to other midsize luxury cars that provide similar performance and amenities.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Elegant yet sporty exterior design.
Sophisticated interior with high-quality materials.
Responsive engine and dynamic driving experience.
Advanced technology and connectivity features.
Comprehensive suite of safety features.

Cons

Higher fuel consumption in city driving.
Limited color options for exterior and interior.
Slightly higher base price compared to non-premium rivals.
Limited rear-seat headroom for taller passengers.
Technology may overwhelm less tech-savvy users.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owners can expect a yearly maintenance cost of approximately $1,500, which is typical for luxury vehicles in this category.

Some reported electronic malfunctions in display and infotainment systems.
Occasional engine noise issues, usually resolved under warranty.
Premature brake wear, potentially due to aggressive driving style.
Inflated tire wear in all-wheel-drive configurations.
Software updates required for certain connectivity features.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.5/10
- Design: 9/10
- Comfort: 9/10
- Performance: 8/10
- Technology: 8/10
- Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The driving experience is unparalleled—smooth and powerful."
"Impressed by the interior quality, feels extremely premium."
"The MMI system could be more intuitive—took me a while to get used to."
"I've had excellent dealings with Audi service and maintenance."
"The fuel efficiency isn't the best in city conditions, but it's a trade-off for the strong performance."

Best Cars in This Category

2018 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
2018 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2018 Jaguar XE
2018 Lexus IS
2018 Infiniti Q50

Summary

The 2018 Audi A5 Sportback quattro is best suited for individuals who value luxury and performance in equal measure. It's an ideal vehicle for those who enjoy a dynamic driving experience without compromising on comfort or technology. Although it may not be the most affordable option in its class, its styling, performance, and features offer considerable value for those seeking a versatile yet premium midsize car.