2021 Audi A5

Pros: Satisfying acceleration; ride and handling balance; interior fit and finish

Cons: Cramped back seat; pricey options and packages drive up bottom line

CG Says: The 2021 Audi A5 adds a mild hybrid system to its 4-cylinder engine that gives a 13-horsepower boost for a total of 261 horsepower. There is also revised styling for the high-performance RS 5. The Audi A5 and S5 is a premium sporty/performance car offered in coupe, convertible, and 4-door hatchback sedan bodystyles. Audi dubs the hatchback sedan “Sportback” (reviewed separately). The A5’s base engine is a 261-hp turbo 2.0-liter with a mild hybrid system that is paired with a 7-speed automated-manual transmission. The sporty S5 is powered by a 354-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and the hot RS 5 has a 444-hp twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6. An 8-speed automatic is the sole transmission for the S5 and RS 5. All models have standard all-wheel drive. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, vehicle-exit assist (a feature that warns of approaching cyclists or vehicles when occupants exit the vehicle), and turn assist (a feature that can detect approaching oncoming traffic when making a left-hand turn). Other available features include a surround-view camera system, head-up instrument display, heated/ventilated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate controls, and Audi’s “Virtual Cockpit” digital gauge cluster. Audi’s excellent 2018 redesign of these coupes and convertibles helps keep them at the head of their class. The A5/S5/RS 5 range is sophisticated, stylish, and capable, and the ferocious RS 5 has performance to compete with the BMW M4 and the Mercedes AMG C63. If you’re shopping for a premium sporty/performance coupe or convertible, be sure to check out these Audis.