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2009 Audi A5 Features Review

December 20, 2008

FEATURES | 9 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

the A5 will draw envy from every surrounding motorist
Car and Driver

Most of the desirable Audi A5 options are bundled into packages
MyRide.com

To put it mildly, the A5 is an exceptionally well-appointed vehicle
Kelley Blue Book

The 2009 Audi A5 is for the most part well equipped, with an array of standard features, and Audi offers many options, but only in pricey packages.

Standard features of the Audi A5 include three-zone automatic climate control, an intelligent key system, and a 180-watt/ten-speaker sound system with six-disc CD changer, MP3 capability, and Sirius Satellite Radio. One "glaring omission" from this list, ConsumerGuide feels, is that the adjust for the tilting/telescoping steering wheel isn’t motorized. "The company's MMI (Multi Media Interface) multifunction controller works the audio, climate and (if equipped) navigation systems," Edmunds says. "Unlike its German rivals, however, Audi's controller is mostly intuitive and easy to use once you clear the still-steep learning curve." Cars.com finds it remains a hurdle for new owners: "Thanks to more than a dozen shortcut buttons surrounding the knob, it's easier to use than BMW's similar iDrive, but uninitiated drivers may find it confusing." A panoramic (tilt only) sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and cruise control round out the standard options.

"Options are grouped into mainly three packages," says Kelley Blue Book, namely Premium, Technology, and Sport. Standout options on the 2009 Audi A5 include a 505-watt, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, which ForbesAutos guarantees "will blow you away with clear mid-range and heart-pounding bass. Plus, the B&O speakers look classy and modern with aluminum surrounds." There's also a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a technology package that includes adaptive headlamps, a blind-spot warning system, rear parking sensors, and a keyless ignition system. Adaptive cruise control is now an option, and enthusiasts will want to go with the Drive Select package, which allows for suspension and steering adjustments.

Options can get pretty expensive. For example, if you want the Technology package's rear park assist with rearview camera, you also have to order the navigation system, according to Kelley Blue Book. If you order the auto transmission and want steering-wheel-mounted paddles shifters, you'll have to opt for the S-line package, which includes bigger wheels, stiffer suspension, special badges, and upholstery.

Conclusion

There are plenty of plush, traditional features and technology options to please almost all shoppers.

FEATURES | 9 out of 10Expert Quotes:the A5 will draw envy from every surrounding motoristCar and DriverMost of the desirable Audi A5 options are bundled into packagesMyRide.comTo put it mildly, the A5 is an exceptionally well-appointed vehicleKelley Blue Book The 2009 Audi A5 is for the most part well equipped, with an array of standard features, and Audi offers many options, but only in pricey packages. Standard features of the Audi A5 include three-zone automatic climate control, an intelligent key system, and a 180-watt/ten-speaker sound system with six-disc CD changer, MP3 capability, and Sirius Satellite Radio. One "glaring omission" from this list, ConsumerGuide feels, is that the adjust for the tilting/telescoping steering wheel isn’t motorized. "The company's MMI (Multi Media Interface) multifunction controller works the audio, climate and (if equipped) navigation systems," Edmunds says. "Unlike its German rivals, however, Audi's controller is mostly intuitive and easy to use once you clear the still-steep learning curve." Cars.com finds it remains a hurdle for new owners: "Thanks to more than a dozen shortcut buttons surrounding the knob, it's easier to use than BMW's similar iDrive, but uninitiated drivers may find it confusing." A panoramic (tilt only) sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, and cruise control round out the standard options. "Options are grouped into mainly three packages," says Kelley Blue Book, namely Premium, Technology, and Sport. Standout options on the 2009 Audi A5 include a 505-watt, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, which ForbesAutos guarantees "will blow you away with clear mid-range and heart-pounding bass. Plus, the B&O speakers look classy and modern with aluminum surrounds." There's also a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a technology package that includes adaptive headlamps, a blind-spot warning system, rear parking sensors, and a keyless ignition system. Adaptive cruise control is now an option, and enthusiasts will want to go with the Drive Select package, which allows for suspension and steering adjustments. Options can get pretty expensive. For example, if you want the Technology package's rear park assist with rearview camera, you also have to order the navigation system, according to Kelley Blue Book. If you order the auto transmission and want steering-wheel-mounted paddles shifters, you'll have to opt for the S-line package, which includes bigger wheels, stiffer suspension, special badges, and upholstery. ConclusionThere are plenty of plush, traditional features and technology options to please almost all shoppers.  2009 AUDI A5 STYLING | [10 out of 10] Car and Driver: "elegance you'd expect to be parked in front of a casino" Edmunds: "slinky sheet metal" Car and Driver: "handsome, fun-to-drive, and oozes class and refinement" The Audi A5 shares most of its underpinnings with the 2009 Audi A4 ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The 2009 Audi A5 has a very understated appearance, as do several of its peers like the 3 Series and CLK-Class, but the A5's interior is more stylish and inviting, and the 3 Series’ interior is a bit more conservative. The Infiniti G37 Coupe has a firm ride and sharp steering, like that of the 3 Series, but it's not quite as comfortable as either coupe, and its interior can be noisy. The 3 Series has nimbler handling than the A5, and the base 328i accelerates almost as quickly as the A5's only engine, but the A5 has a roomier trunk than the 3 Series or other rivals. The CLK has the most dated appearance of these three, in a fickle portion of the market where it counts to be seen in what’s newest.

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See the Audi A5 in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008

Comments (4 total)

  1. By  Truck trader #2, Posted: 3/19/2009

    Audi car

    My 2003 A4 did everything I asked of it for the four years I had it. It was far more reliable than my BMWs,and much easier to live with than the C43.(16 sparkplugs)

  2. By  Truck trader #3, Posted: 3/19/2009

    Audi car

    It sure is gorgeous. But that’s where the good stuff ends.
    With front wheel drive and dodgy handling, it’s basically a fancy looking Accord coupe that costs $20K more.

  3. By Geos Autos #4, Posted: 10/3/2009

    Never, EVER, compare Audi to Honda

  4. By willis #5, Posted: 10/17/2009

    seriously... especially when you have no idea what you're talking about. The A5 isn't even available in fwd.

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