It’s all about numbers these days - fuel economy, CO2 emissions and price to name just a few. But when a car manufacturer such as Audi brings out a new engine range that improves on every section mentioned above, it takes a lot then not to be impressed.

To its credit, Audi has improved in areas that directly relate to the financial side of things over the last few years, but its new engine availability looks to be a game changer. As always, going up against other Germanic rivals like BMW and Volkswagen is not easy and there is a certain amount of highbrow presence that goes along with the territory.

Some may be wondering what a Sportback is. Well, in a nutshell, it is a coupe version of the standard A5 saloon but with more doors and greater hatchback-like practicality. But can Audi’s stylish coupe version of the A5 tick enough boxes to worry its luxurious competition?

Performance

There are quite a few engines on offer with the A5 Sportback. The highlight from the petrol line-up is the flagship 211bhp 2.0-litre TFSI unit, reaching 62mph from a standing start in just 7.1 seconds. If you want a balance of performance and efficiency then the 2.0-litre Ultra diesel engine is your best bet.

Producing 134bhp, the boffins at Audi have ensured that it delivers power and efficiency in equal measure. Peak power arrives at 1,500rpm in the new Ultra engine, meaning the car feels feisty, even though this is a ‘green’ version.

Covering the benchmark sprint is a breeze and the 2.0-litre Ultra will get you from zero to 62mph in 9.5 seconds, going on to a top speed of 132mph.

Ride and Handling

On the twisty stuff the A5 is really impressive for such a big car. There is minimal bodyroll while there is tons of grip thanks to the famed Quattro technology.

Matching handling and comfort is not an easy job, but the A5 Sportback manages to find a sweet spot. For some, the ride may be a tad firm, but remember, this is a sports coupe, so if the car is a little on the hard side then that is fair. On the twisty stuff the A5 is really impressive for such a big car. There is minimal bodyroll while there is tons of grip thanks to the famed Quattro technology. Just like many other models in the maker’s range – steering feel lets the car down, it is weighted well enough however it feels artificial. That's a shame really, as the A5 is so good in many other ways.

Interior and Equipment

The Audi A5 Sportback first appeared as the Audi Sportback concept back in 2009 at the North American International Auto Show.

Audi cabins are a serene place to spend time in. The materials used are first class while the cockpit is driver focused and well insulated, with road, tyre and engine noise all minimal. Every A5 Sportback model comes with climate control, electric front windows, MP3 compatibility and 17-inch alloy wheels as standard. A5 Ultra Coupe models are available exclusively in the second trim, SE form. Highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, an Audi Concert CD audio system incorporating DAB digital radio and linked to a 6.5-inch colour monitor, light and rain sensors, rear parking sensors and Milano leather upholstery. The A5 Sportback is reasonably practical. With the seats in place it has a load capacity of 480 litres and when folded this expands to 980 litres.

Cost

Emissions can be achieved as low as 109g/km of CO2 with the 2.0-litre Ultra diesel and Audi claims an average economy of 67.3mpg. Figures like these mean that the A5 Sportback is a great motorway cruiser.

Priced from around £27,000, the A5 Sportback is competitive against its rivals, including the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe.  Emissions can be achieved as low as 109g/km of CO2 with the 2.0-litre Ultra diesel and Audi claims an average economy of 67.3mpg. Figures like these mean that the A5 Sportback is a great motorway cruiser. Residuals are bound to be strong with the four-ringed badge on the nose, although competitors like VW are likely to be a little more predictable when it comes to holding their value.

Our Verdict

The Audi A5 Sportback with the Ultra engine will take the business end of the market by storm. The engine is fuel efficient and emissions are on the low side too – which should help woo indecisive company car drivers into the Audi ranks. The other engines in the range are by no means mediocre though, with the punchy 2.0-litre petrol being a particularly strong performer. Aside to its engines, the A5 Sportback also drives well and this is a plus for any customer.