The Audi A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI, produced from October 2011 through 2015, represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and efficiency within the A5 Sportback range. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level, this variant combined the sophisticated styling of the A5 Sportback – Audi’s five-door coupe – with a potent turbocharged diesel engine and the convenience of Audi’s Multitronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). It falls within the B8 generation (8TA) of the A5, benefitting from the facelift introduced in 2011 which included revised styling cues and updated technology. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a refined and versatile grand tourer with strong fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (8TA, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 TDI V6 (204 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | October, 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 125.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 204 Hp @ 3750-4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1250-3500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1250-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CLAB |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4712 mm (185.51 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1391 mm (54.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Front overhang | 861 mm (33.9 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1041 mm (40.98 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Multitronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A5 Sportback, launched in 2009, broadened the appeal of the A5 range by adding a practical five-door fastback body style. The 2011 facelift brought subtle but significant updates to the exterior design, interior materials, and technology. The 3.0 TDI variant, powered by the CLAB engine, occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a substantial performance upgrade over the lower-powered 2.0 TDI models while remaining more accessible than the performance-focused S5 Sportback. It was primarily sold in the European market, where diesel engines held a significant market share, and to a lesser extent in other regions where diesel fuel was readily available.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI is the CLAB engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. This engine is a member of Audi’s modular engine family and features common-rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, and an intercooler. The common-rail system, operating at extremely high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery for optimal combustion and reduced emissions. The engine produces 204 horsepower at 3750-4500 rpm and a robust 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1250 and 3500 rpm. This broad torque curve provides strong acceleration in virtually any gear. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to minimize soot emissions, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Paired with the engine is Audi’s Multitronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Multitronic uses a chain-driven system to provide a virtually infinite number of ratios, optimizing engine speed for efficiency and performance. The Multitronic is known for its smooth and seamless shifts, contributing to a refined driving experience. It also features a manual shift mode for more driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 TDI with the Multitronic transmission delivers a relaxed and effortless driving experience. The abundant torque allows for brisk acceleration without the need for frequent downshifts. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6.7 seconds, and the car feels confident during highway overtaking maneuvers. While not as overtly sporty as the S5, the 3.0 TDI offers a pleasing balance between performance and comfort. The Multitronic transmission contributes to smooth progress, although some drivers may find it lacks the direct feel of a traditional automatic or dual-clutch transmission. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined figures around 48 US mpg, making it an economical choice for long-distance driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI typically came well-equipped, even in base trim. Standard features included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and an Audi Concert audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and the Audi Navigation Plus system. Optional extras included advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior trim options ranged from brushed aluminum to wood veneers, allowing buyers to personalize the cabin to their taste.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback features a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilizes a multi-link setup for precise handling and ride comfort, while the rear suspension employs a trapezoidal link design. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling agility. The car’s weight distribution is well-balanced, contributing to its stable and predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and practical five-door body style. Compared to the 2.0 TDI models, the 3.0 TDI offered a significant performance boost, making it a more enjoyable car to drive. However, it came at a higher price point. Compared to the S5 Sportback, the 3.0 TDI offered a more balanced blend of performance and economy, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and everyday usability over outright performance. Reliability was generally good, although like all modern diesels, the DPF and fuel injection system required careful maintenance.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Sportback 3.0 TDI remains a popular choice in the used car market. The CLAB engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The Multitronic transmission, while generally reliable, can be more expensive to repair than traditional automatic transmissions. Today, these vehicles offer a compelling combination of style, performance, and fuel efficiency, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a refined and practical grand tourer.
