2010 Audi A5: Road Test
2010 Audi A5 ▼
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- MSRP: $36,000 - $58,250
- Invoice: $33,480 - $54,174
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Our road test for the 2010 Audi A5 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Audi A5 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Audi A5, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Audi A5 help you decide if a 2010 Audi A5 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
The A5 3.2 coupe has strong, linear power at any speed. The automatic transmission is prompt but doesn't upshift as smoothly as we would expect. S5 coupe feels as fast as Audi's claim of 4.9-seconds 0-60 mph. Its manual transmission disappoints with long throws and less precise shifting and clutch engagement than we've come to expect from Audi. S5 Cabriolet is a step slower off the line than S5 coupe, but acceleration is invigorating once underway. The 7-speed automatic shifts smoothly and quickly. No 4-cylinder A5s have been made available for testing so far.
FUEL ECONOMY
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 6 | 3.9 |
In Consumer Guide testing, A5 3.2 models with automatic transmission averaged 21.3-25.7 mpg. S5 coupes with the manual transmission averaged 14.6 mpg in mostly city driving and 19.0-19.5 with more highway use. All A5s and S5s require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 3.7 |
All models tested are expectantly firm, and sharp bumps can register with a jolt. Overall, A5s and S5s are compliant enough and are not tiresome on long highway trips. Very slight cowl shake is noticeable in S5 Cabriolet.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
Confidence-inspiring, with little body lean in fast turns and great grip. Steering feel is responsive at higher speeds, but some testers complain that it's too light at low speeds. Braking is powerful and stable.
QUIETNESS
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 3.8 |
V6 and V8 engines make great mechanical noises while accelerating and recede quietly into the background at cruise. A5 has slightly less tire noise than the S5. One test S5 suffered from excessive wind rush from around the exterior mirrors at highway speeds. S5 Cabriolet's soft top makes for slightly more ambient noise at all times.
CONTROLS
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Audi's MultiMedia Interface (MMI) uses a central control knob with flanking buttons to govern most audio, climate, and navigation system functions. While many of said functions are clearly labeled on a dashboard screen, performing simple tasks require multiple button presses.
DETAILS
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.4 |
More sporty than luxurious, but materials are of high quality throughout the cabin. One test model suffered from an intermittent rattle in the rear-seat area.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
The front seats are supportive, though some of our testers find it difficult to achieve a comfortable driving position. The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel does not offer power operation, which is a pretty glaring omission in this class. Visibility is surprisingly good in all directions, even in Cabriolets. The Cabriolets' retractable soft top includes built-in dome lights, a nice touch. Long doors impede entry and exit on all A5s/S5s.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | .6 |
Though the front passenger seat offers power-sliding operation to ease rear-seat entry and exit, no one but small children will be comfortable back there. The front seat's sliding action is very slow as well.
CARGO ROOM
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 2.3 |
The trunk has a good amount of space, but it's narrow and not very tall, which precludes hauling even moderately bulky items. Split-folding rear seatbacks are a nice, unexpected convenience; they're standard on all models, including Cabriolets. Interior storage includes large door pockets, a modest size glovebox, and a small center console.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
A5 and S5 are premium-sporty 2 doors that do many things well. They have strong acceleration, capable handling, and offer the security of all-wheel drive. They're not as outright sporty as the two-seat Porsche Boxster and Cayman, but they are more practical and undercut them on price, making A5 and S5 strong choices in this segment.
Total Score
| A5 3.2 coupe | S5 coupe, manual | S5 Cabriolet | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 66 | 62 | 63 | 51 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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