• Virtual Cockpit nice to use and looks great
• Interior quality is first rate, despite advancing years
• Infotainment easy to use, slick and responsive

How is the quality and layout?

The A5 is a real masterclass when it comes to interior quality and design. Yes, it’s getting on a bit, but the controls are simple to use, the design looks classy and understated, while all of the switches operate with a precision that cars from other firms can only dream of. We think Audi still makes some of the best interiors around.

The use of materials, combined with a slick design and a user-friendly media system make the A5 Sportback a superb place to while away an endless motorway trip. All the materials feel solid and the design – closely related to that of the A4 – seems somehow more upmarket in this low-slung four-door coupe with its sleek roofline.

Infotainment and tech

There’s a choice between large, clear analogue dials and a fully digital ‘virtual cockpit’ in its place. RThe latter lets you customise the display, for instance, with a large sat-nav map and small speedometer and rev counter. Whether you pay extra for the latter or not, the main instruments are easy to read on the move, with simple steering wheel controls that make it easy to navigate between trip computer, phone, radio and navigation displays among others.

We find the central media system is similarly accessible, thanks to a rotary control at the base of the gearlever and logically arranged menus. The row of horizontal switches for the climate control system is a bit trickier to use, however, as it’s hard to get the right button by feel, but this is rarely problematic in our experience and is still infinitely preferable to stabbing a badly-designed screen-based set-up that’s sadly becoming the norm.

We found the voice control set-up works very well indeed, as does the wireless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They work flawlessly unlike some rivals.

Comfort

• Excellent sports seats with lots of adjustment
• Front of cabin is spacious but lacks headroom
• Rear seats generous but saloon rivals are roomier

With welcoming seats, compliant suspension and very little wind, road or engine noise making itself heard inside – in both petrol and diesel form – the A5 Sportback is a very comfortable car indeed.

But in terms of static qualities for the driver and passengers, the Audi A5 really does come up trumps. Despite the sleek styling, there’s just enough headroom for anyone under about 6’2″. However, you won’t exactly be revelling in lounging room. Also, we wouldn’t choose a dark trim as it can make the interior to feel claustrophobic, especially in the rear.

We also found the optional sports seats very comfortable indeed, with good back and side support. They’re firm and take a little time to get used to but once you do, they’re perfect for ache-free long-distance trips. Throw in the S Tronic automatic gearbox and the A5 is a very relaxing car to drive, capable of absorbing the bumpiest of country roads without fuss.