The Audi A5 Sportback (8TA) 2.0 TFSI quattro, produced between 2009 and 2011, represents a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and Audi’s signature refinement. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the A5 Sportback lineup, this variant catered to buyers seeking a balance between spirited driving and everyday usability. It occupied a space above the base 1.8 TFSI models and below the more potent S5 Sportback, offering a significant step up in performance thanks to its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and standard quattro all-wheel drive. The A5 Sportback itself was a significant addition to the Audi range, offering a five-door coupe profile that combined the sleek aesthetics of a traditional coupe with the added convenience of a hatchback. It was built on the Volkswagen Group’s B8 platform, shared with the Audi A4 and Q5.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (8TA) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (211 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 172 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 242 km/h (150.37 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 134 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 211 Hp @ 4300-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4200 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDNC |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2105 kg (4640.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 980 l (34.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4711 mm (185.47 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro lies the CDNC engine, a 1.984-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Audi’s EA888 family, known for its robust design and tuning potential. The CDNC utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a potent 211 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The standard transmission for this variant was a six-speed manual gearbox, although an optional S tronic dual-clutch transmission was also available. The S tronic offered quicker shifts and a more dynamic driving experience, but the manual was favored by enthusiasts for its engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI quattro Sportback offered a compelling driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 6.4 seconds, making it a genuinely quick vehicle for its time. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, and contributed to confident handling. The engine delivered strong torque throughout the rev range, making it responsive in everyday driving situations. Compared to the base 1.8 TFSI models, the 2.0 TFSI offered a noticeable performance boost, while remaining more accessible and fuel-efficient than the higher-performance S5. The six-speed manual transmission provided a direct connection to the engine, allowing for precise control, while the optional S tronic offered seamless and rapid gear changes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows and mirrors, and an Audi Concert audio system. Upholstery was typically cloth, but leather options were available. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems like the Bang & Olufsen sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The Sportback’s hatchback design provided a generous 480 liters (16.95 cu ft) of trunk space, expandable to 980 liters (34.61 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup, while the rear employed an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, refined interior, and engaging driving experience. The combination of performance, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability made it a popular choice among buyers seeking a versatile and premium vehicle. Compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo and the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the A5 Sportback offered a unique blend of coupe-like styling and hatchback practicality. Fuel economy was respectable for its class, averaging around 32.2 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger and direct injection system.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro has proven to be a durable and reliable vehicle in the used car market. The EA888 engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, these engines can continue to provide years of service. The quattro all-wheel-drive system remains a significant selling point, particularly in regions with inclement weather. Today, these vehicles represent a good value for buyers seeking a stylish, well-equipped, and capable grand tourer. While not as sought-after as some of the more iconic Audi models, the A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI quattro remains a respected and enjoyable vehicle.
