2009 Audi A5 Performance Review

The 2009 Audi A5 moves casual and enthusiast drivers with V-6 power, standard Quattro, and a choice of gearboxes: a six-speed manual or a six-speed Tiptronic.

The 2009 A5 is the only car in its class that offers all-wheel drive with a manual transmission. A 265-horsepower, 3.2-liter V-6 powers the 2009 Audi A5 with authority; its performance isn't especially responsive, but it's very smooth and refined and can push the A5 to 60 mph in about six seconds. The Washington Post describes the A5's demeanor as "smooth, gentle, yet powerful." Edmunds says "the spirited V-6 provides likewise eager response," though MyRide.com cites one fault: "It costs the same as the BMW, but with a significant horsepower debt."

The direct-injection engine actually works very well with the automatic, executing quick, decisive downshifts. The Washington Post applauds the "silky six-speed automatic transmission." With the S-line package, the A5 also gets paddle shifters alongside the steering wheel. Most reviewers consulted by TheCarConnection.com tried the manual. Motor Trend reports that while the gearing of the six-speed transmission is "well matched" to the powerplant, the shifter is "somewhat clunky," and it "generally felt a bit remote and disconnected from the mechanism it controls." Edmunds thinks "the manual transmission's shifter has somewhat long, but light-effort throws with firm engagement." In an automatic, their best time in a run to 60 mph was 6.4 seconds.

The 2009 Audi A5 is certainly no fuel miser, but neither is it a guzzler. EPA estimates rate the automatic-equipped 2009 A5 at 17 mpg city, 26 highway. Premium fuel is required by Audi.

As a grand tourer, the 2009 Audi A5 has a suspension that’s tuned more for ride quality than aggressive handling capability. The 2009 Audi A5 isn't especially exciting to drive and its steering receives mixed reviews. ConsumerGuide reports, "Steering feel is responsive at higher speeds, but some testers complain that it's too light at low speeds." Cars.com says, "Quattro all-wheel drive is standard; in normal conditions, it channels 60 percent of the power to the rear wheels." Even with the added weight of AWD, ForbesAutos comments, "When pushing the A5 through quick turns, it feels heavier and less agile than the BMW 3 Series. But there is little body roll and the A5 stays planted, yet the ride is never harsh." ConsumerGuide notes "sharp bumps can register with a jolt," but acknowledges that it's comfortable enough for long road trips. New for 2009 is the "Drive Select" package that includes adaptive suspension and dynamic steering, which varies the steering ratio. Standard stability and traction control keep the A5 in line but, according to Kelley Blue Book, "can be switched off" for more sporting drives. Braking is sure-footed and confidence-inspiring, according to various reviews read by TheCarConnection.com.