2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI 6MT (150 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Four years after the introduction of the second generation of the Audi A5 Sportback, the German automaker unveiled the refreshed version of this moniker at the Frankfurt International Motor Show.

The German automaker had to improve all of its cars due to the stricter Euro 6d emission standards that were due to enter in January 2020. As a result, the four-ring brand had its hands full with almost all of its vehicles. Even though the second generation of the A5 has sold more than 100,000 units per year since its introduction in 2016, there were other models that sold better than this moniker. However, the automaker didn’t just update the vehicle’s exterior; it also performed significant upgrades inside, where it introduced a fresh infotainment system.

While it was difficult for common people to distinguish the facelifted from the non-facelifted version of the 2020 Audi A5 Sportback, there were a few significant differences. All versions were standard with LED headlights, while upper grades boasted Matrix LED or Laser headlamps. In addition, the main grille between them was black and lost most of the chromed details that adorned it. The apron was also reshaped and sported new side scoops decorated with a hexagonal pattern and housing the fog lamps. Those who opted for the S-Line package got the car with broader air intakes that flanked the lower side of the bumper.

The low-slung profile of the car remained largely unchanged. However, Audi considered adding new options for the wheels sized between 18 and 20 inches, depending on the grade and options, which made the car look even sportier. Thanks to the raked windshield, curved roofline, and sloped-down tailgate, that was easy to do. Furthermore, the frameless doors were the icing on the cake, completing the idea of a genuine four-door coupe. At the back, the automaker added new LED taillights with an option for one that featured dynamic turn signals, depending on the grade. Finally, the rear bumper was redesigned and had chromed trims mimicking large rectangular exhausts.

Inside, customers were greeted by a redesigned dashboard featuring a fresh 10.1-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Audi finally got rid of the rotary knob from the center console and used that area for storage. Fronting the driver was an instrument cluster fitted with analog dials that flanked an LCD. As an option, or standard depending on the engine version, the 2020 Audi A5 Sportback featured the Audi Virtual Cockpit display that could project the map for the navigation system and other information from the car’s onboard computer. In the back, headroom was still limited for taller persons, and the bench seat could split and fold to increase trunk space.

Despite stricter emission standards, Audi continued luring its customers with potent engines ranging between 150 and 286 PS (148 – 282 hp), sending their power to the front or all corners. Most versions were fitted with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox, but the entry-level model was still available with a six-speed manual transmission.