Should you buy one?

The Audi A5 is a handsome two-door that turns heads on the road without being overwrought or garishly detailed. Inside it’s blessed with excellent build quality and trim choices without losing core ergonomic requirements. The substance behind the style makes the A5 an accomplished long-distance companion regardless of engine choice.

Whichever version of the A5 you choose, there’s room for four (just), a large boot and a wide selection of engines and trim levels to choose from. It doesn’t have the driver appeal of the BMW 4 Series, but its less showy looks and significant kerb appeal will matter to potential buyers.

Although there are some very fact models in the range, the sweet spots lie with the relatively modest 40 TDI diesel and 40 TFSI petrol. The 40 TDI Quattro is hard to ignore as an all rounder, with its diesel economy when cruising, all-wheel drive traction and impressive mid-range torque. Despite falling rapidly out of fashion, we’d still recommend the diesel if you spend more than half your time on the motorway.

What we like

Classy looks inside and out, and an interior that oozes quality. The infotainment isn’t Audi’s latest, but that’s no bad thing, as it’s a great set-up that’s easy to use. The engines are also brilliant, offering excellent fuel consumption and performance.

What we don’t like

We’d like to see a company car driver-friendly plug-in hybrid version, although suspec that won’t now happen until the model is replaced. Although the A5 is capable, the BMW 4 Series shows it a clean pair of heels dynamically.