We headed to Ratoath Motor Centre in Meath to have a look at a 2016 Audi A5. Ratoath Motor Centre is an AA Approved Garage, so this Audi A5 comes with 12 months free AA Breakdown Rescue and a 101-point check.
What is the Audi A5?
The Audi A5 is an executive sized fastback. It’s low, sleek, and sporty looking. Yet it has enough space to get a few adults in the back and a decent sized boot. It brings typically reassuring Audi handling with a high level of build quality. They’re not cheap, but they are very good.
How much does it cost to run an Audi A5?
Fuel economy
Fuel economy varies wildly if you’re considering an Audi A5. You can have a rather efficient, motorway-munching 2.0l Diesel or the ridiculously powerful and thirsty 3.0l Petrol S5.
We had the 2.0l Diesel variant on test, which will return pretty good efficiency stats on longer motorway runs. It is low to the ground, sleek and quite aerodynamic. In city runs, it won’t fare as well of course.
Official stats suggest you could get up to 72mpg off the 2.0l Diesel, but this is extremely optimistic. You can expect to knock a good third off that. But then again, your fuel consumption really depends on your driving speed and style.
Don’t forget that if you want to reduce your fuel costs, you can download the AA App here. You don’t even have to be a member. Just use the App at the counter in a participating Circle K garages and you will get a 3c per litre discount!
Tax & Insurance
Tax will also be quite decent at €270 for the 2.0l version we tested, which is reasonable considering that this is a good-sized car with plenty of power, and a surprising level of space inside. If you opt for the high-powered versions such as the S5 then you could expect to pay a multiple of that however.
Audi is more of a high-value luxury brand and as a result will incur a higher premium typically. Some of the versions are also extremely fast which also affects your insurance quote. If you are interested in finding out how much it would cost to insure yourself on an A5, or any other car, then you can get a quote from us here!
Is the Audi A5 spacious?
The A5 isn’t built to haul around young families. Having said that, it has really good space inside for what is a fastback driver’s car. You will fit 5 adults, although those in the back may be close to the roof if they’re 6ft and above.
The boot will fit seven carry on cases, and thanks to the hatchback boot lid, the opening is huge. So you’ll get bigger items and buggies in easily. Fold down the seats in a 40/20/40 split for even more room when needed.
Spec and finish inside
Audi are rightly renowned for a high level of build quality. The A5 proudly carries that torch onwards. However, you do have to pay to get the high level of spec you want from their cars. The options list can get quite expensive. So if you’re buying a used Audi, it’s a good chance to hunt out a well-spaced example for a reasonable price.
We were testing the S-line, which is presented really well. The seats had the cloth inserts on leather, and were really comfortable. It all adds up to a very pleasant and well-appointed cabin. The previous owner obviously kept the interior well, with all buttons, knobs and fabrics in good condition.
What is the Audi A5 like to drive?
Much of the motivation to buy an Audi is in the driving. The A5 is no exception. It feels solid, planted and well-built. The steering is sharp and pointed so you can stick it into a corner with ease. The suspension is nicely weighted, and will feel very stable in cornering.
Even the least powerful engine in the A5 range has plenty of oomph for everyday driving. The 2.0l Diesel we had on test has an output of 150bhp, and you could feel it. It pulled through the gears very well and will not struggle to get you up to speed.
The cruise control allows for an easier time on the motorway when you have a long trip ahead of you.
Why buy an AA Approved Car?
AA Approved garages such as Ratoath Motor Centre where we tested this Audi are inspected before being allowed onto our programme. They have to meet a certain quality to be accepted. If they don’t continue to meet our standards, they will be removed from the AA Approved programme.
Each AA Approved car that is sold comes with a 101-point check. For added peace of mind, you get 12 months free Breakdown Rescue when you buy an AA Approved car. You can learn more about the programme here.
If you’re looking for an AA Approved car that has a bit more space in the back, then check out our review of the 2018 Volkswagen Passat.
