The Audi A5 Sportback (8TA, facelift 2011) 2.0 TDI 190 hp model, produced from 2014 to 2016, represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and efficiency within the Audi A5 range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it catered to buyers seeking a more economical alternative to the higher-powered gasoline variants, while still providing a refined driving experience and the stylish aesthetics of the Sportback body style. This variant played a significant role in expanding the A5’s appeal in European markets, where diesel engines were – and continue to be – highly favored for their fuel economy and torque characteristics. The A5 Sportback itself, introduced as a five-door coupe, offered a unique proposition, combining the sleek lines of a coupe with the added convenience of rear doors and a larger cargo area compared to the standard A5 coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (8TA, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (190 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-5.9 l/100 km (42.8 – 39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0-4.5 l/100 km (58.8 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-5.0 l/100 km (51.1 – 47 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 119-132 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 238 km/h (147.89 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 253.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 3800-4200 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CDDA, CNHA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 20.5 l (5.42 US gal | 4.51 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 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.) |
| 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A5 Sportback variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, available with engine codes CDDA or CNHA. This engine is a member of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its compact dimensions and efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine also features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and improving torque across a wide rev range. The valvetrain employs a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to the engine’s overall performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine. While an S tronic dual-clutch transmission was available as an option, the manual was the more common choice for this trim level.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 hp 2.0 TDI engine, coupled with the 6-speed manual transmission, delivered a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph took approximately 7.8 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving and highway overtaking. The engine’s peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) available from 1750 to 3000 rpm provided strong pulling power, particularly useful for navigating winding roads or carrying a full load. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI gasoline variants, the TDI offered less outright acceleration but significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver engagement, while the gear ratios were optimized for both fuel efficiency and responsive performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, although it could exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TDI 190 hp Sportback typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a multi-function steering wheel, an infotainment system with a color display, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather options were available. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded sound system. The trim level often dictated the exterior styling details, such as chrome accents and the design of the alloy wheels. This variant generally sat in the middle of the A5 Sportback lineup, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback’s chassis featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and an independent trapezoidal lever suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to balance handling and comfort, offering a good compromise for everyday driving. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI 190 hp received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engine. The combination of performance and economy made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and refined vehicle. Compared to the higher-powered gasoline variants, the TDI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a more cost-effective option for long-distance driving. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy compared to the smoother gasoline engines. Against competitors like the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo and the Volkswagen Passat CC, the A5 Sportback stood out with its distinctive styling and premium interior.
Legacy
The 2.0 TDI engine in this configuration has proven to be relatively reliable, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. The particulate filter can be a potential source of issues if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips, as it may not have enough opportunity to regenerate. In the used car market, these A5 Sportbacks are generally well-regarded, offering a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and efficient vehicle. The 8TA generation A5 Sportback, including this 2.0 TDI variant, remains a popular choice for those looking for a premium five-door coupe that combines practicality with a refined driving experience.
