2025 Audi A5 First Drive: A Damn Fine Daily Driver
The 2025 Audi A5 enters the market with a full redesign, attempting to entice drivers away from choosing yet another crossover. While it may lack fun personality, this luxurious hatchback doesn’t provide much to complain about.
The A5 has evolved significantly since its introduction in 2008 as a two-door counterpart to the A4. Now, the Sportback body is the standard offering, featuring a hatchback cargo area that provides ample space. The new vehicle architecture, called Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), brings changes including a longer wheelbase and slightly larger dimensions.
Outside and Inside
The 2025 A5’s exterior styling is somewhat generic, although it doesn’t look bad. In contrast, the interior has been made more appealing with new visual interest in shapes, textures, and trim details. The cabin features soft-touch surfaces and excellent material quality.
Big screens are prominent inside, with an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display paired with a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. The high-end Prestige trim gains a 10.9-inch touchscreen for the front passenger. The A5 provides superb practicality with 22.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats, expandable to 36.6 cubic feet when folded.
Performance
The A5 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, producing 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The dual-clutch transmission can show slight hesitation from a stop, but shifts are generally imperceptible. The car provides enough power for everyday driving, though it’s not thrilling.
The adaptive steering rack is lightly weighted, and while it doesn’t provide much engagement, it turns where needed. The chassis revisions within the PPC structure provide a stable handling experience. Ride quality is comfortable, though the suspension can feel taut over larger impacts.
Conclusion
The 2025 Audi A5 is a competent, versatile, and upscale vehicle. While it may lack notable personality, its uncomplicated nature makes it a pleasant daily driver. With its huge hatchback cargo area and refined interior, it’s well-suited for city streets or open roads.
Specifications
- Base Price: $50,995
- Layout: Front-engine, AWD, 4-pass, 4-door hatchback
- Engine: 2.0L/268-hp/295-lb-ft turbocharged DOHC 16-valve I-4
- Transmission: 7-speed twin-clutch automatic
- Curb Weight: 4,100 lb (mfr)
- Wheelbase: 113.8 in
- L x W x H: 190.1 x 73.2 x 57.0 in
- 0-60 MPH: 5.8 sec (mfr est)
- EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON: 22/31/26 mpg (est)
- On Sale: Now
