Audi A5 Avant
Premium and stylish alternative to an SUV
In an age where the SUV rules there are few alternatives, but there are some thanks to manufacturers like Audi who still build proper estate cars. The A5 Avant range is one of those proper estates and offers practicality, style and a wide range of power options including petrol, diesel and hybrid.
Estates are much more practical than you may imagine, as despite their usually larger size SUVs don’t offer the same spatial package as a traditional estate car. For example, longer loads can generally be better accommodated in an estate car rather than an SUV.
The A5 Avant range starts at £45,285 for the sport model with a 150PS petrol powerplant under the bonnet and a generous slice of standard equipment. This includes heated front seats, heated, powered, dimming and folding door mirrors, LED lights, navigation, high beam assist and cruise control on the lead-in model.
Although as with all car makers costs have been cut Audi still manage to produce cars that not only feel premium but drive premium too. As ever there’s the usual touchscreen but at least the A5 still has some buttons. The dreaded driver annoyance, sorry assistance, features are easier to turn off than many cars but still require you to repeat the process every time you restart the car.
On the road my Edition 1 model proved quiet, efficient, economical and very comfortable. Priced at £58,425 it comes with niceties such as heated front and rear seats, power front seats, heated and electrically adjustable steering wheel, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system as standard.
All models come with the 7-speed automatic gearbox that provides some well-chosen ratios. The ride does feel on the firm side but not uncomfortably so and the A5 Avant manages to smooth out the roughest of roads. Although diesel is a dirty word amongst some the 204PS, 2.0-litre power plant under the Audi’s bonnet is a delight. With mild hybrid electric power the Audi returns an average of 53.3 mpg and emits 138 g/km with the benchmark 0 to 62mph in just 7.7 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph.
If you’re looking for a stylish automotive holdall with a difference then the Audi Avant line-up, especially the A5, should be on your shopping list. It offers a great mix of power options, impressive levels of standard equipment, a distinctly premium feel and performance to match.
Words by Mark Slack
