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New car reviews » 2008 Audi A5 Coupe 3.2 quattro

Better than: BMW M5
But not as good as: BMW 335i
GRM Bang For The Buck Index: 56.97  

Audi’s new coupe has dead-sexy good looks to spare, so it’s bound to draw a lot of attention. We tested an example featuring the S Line Sport Package, which compliments the model’s already snazzy appearance by adding special bumpers and 19-inch wheels.

The package also includes a sport-tuned suspension and higher-performance summer-rated tires, but calling this Audi a sports car would be a stretch. It’s a perfectly capable cruiser, but if you’re looking for exhilaration behind the wheel there are probably better options, including the big-brother S5 V8 from Audi.

At $50,000, this Audi represents anything but a bargain, and the fuel economy isn’t impressive enough to soften the blow. However, the interior is very comfortable and feels suitably expensive. The A5 might be the perfect status vehicle for the young executive in your life, as it could impress everyone but a true motorsports enthusiast.

Did we mention it’s beautiful?

Other staff views:

Tom Heath Marketing / Club Coordinator:

I can’t argue that this Audi isn’t pretty, but that’s where my praise stops. Puny back seats, sub-WRX performance, and spotty reliability make this $50,000 showpiece a bad deal in my book.

Reader comments:

  1. thatsnowinnebago: — Aug 9, 2008 2:17 p.m.

    I think this car is so very choice. Audi did a very good thing with this car’s styling and I love it.

  2. nderwater: — Aug 13, 2008 9:48 p.m.

    Please explain how this AWD sports sedan which runs 14’s in the quarter scores equally in the Stock Performance and lower in the Performance Potential categories than the Honda Element you guys just reviewed.

  3. Tom Heath: — Aug 21, 2008 3:55 p.m.

    Mid 14-second quarter miles and “plush” handling for 50,000 dollars don’t earn many points from this tester. The car was a tepid performer, at best, so 3 stars is appropriate for this sports coupe.
    Want more performance? You’re far further ahead trading it in on an S-series car, which is why we knocked it for potential.

2008 Audi A5 Coupe 3.2 quattro Specs:

Drivetrain Layout:
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Engine:
3.2 liter V-6
Horsepower:
265 bhp at 6500 rpm
Torque:
243 lb.-ft at 3250 rpm
Transmission:
manumatic
Suspension:
five-link independent
Wheels:
19x8.5-in
Tires:
245/40/19
Brakes:
disc (front)
disc (rear)
¼ Mile Time:
14.5 seconds @98.0 mph
Weight:
3791 pounds
Price:
Base: $41200
As tested: $51665
MPG:
EPA City: 18
EPA Highway: 27
Observed: 20.0

Staff Ratings:

Stock Performance:
***
Performance Potential:
**
Daily Driver Manners:
****
Fit and Finish:
****1/2
Overall:
**1/2

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