The Audi A5 Sportback (F5) 40 TDI S tronic, produced from 2018 to 2019, represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and efficiency within the fifth generation (F5) A5 family. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Sportback lineup, it catered to buyers seeking a balance between the entry-level models and the more potent, performance-focused variants. The Sportback body style, a five-door fastback, offered increased versatility compared to the coupe and cabriolet versions, making it a popular choice in European markets where practicality is highly valued. This specific 40 TDI configuration combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with Audi’s renowned seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, delivering a refined driving experience and respectable fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (F5) |
| Type (Engine) | 40 TDI (190 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-5.1 l/100 km (49 – 46.1 US mpg, 58.9 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20.8 – 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8-4.2 l/100 km (61.9 – 56 US mpg, 74.3 – 67.3 UK mpg, 26.3 – 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2-4.5 l/100 km (56 – 52.3 US mpg, 67.3 – 62.8 UK mpg, 23.8 – 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 110-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 241 km/h (149.75 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263.2 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 | DESA, DETA |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2125 kg (4684.82 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 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 | 4733 mm (186.34 in.) |
| Width | 1843 mm (72.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1386 mm (54.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2824 mm (111.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1031 mm (40.59 in.) |
| 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A5 Sportback 40 TDI is the 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, identified by engine codes DESA and DETA. This engine is a member of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A single turbocharger, often with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology, provides forced induction, boosting power and torque. The engine also incorporates an intercooler to reduce intake air temperature, further enhancing performance. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component of this powertrain. It offers rapid, seamless gear changes and contributes to the car’s overall efficiency. Unlike a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter, the S tronic uses two separate clutches – one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears – allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and virtually eliminating shift interruption.
Driving Characteristics
The 190 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 40 TDI engine provide a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.5 seconds, making it adequately quick for everyday driving and highway merging. The S tronic transmission contributes to smooth and responsive acceleration, and the engine delivers strong pulling power throughout the rev range. Compared to the more powerful 45 TDI variants, the 40 TDI offers a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy and refinement over outright performance. The gear ratios in the S tronic transmission are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, with taller gears for cruising and shorter gears for quicker response. While not as engaging as a manual transmission, the S tronic offers a degree of driver control through paddle shifters.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 40 TDI typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a central display screen, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and a suite of driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a premium sound system, and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features. The Sportback body style itself added practicality with its larger rear opening and increased cargo space compared to the coupe.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback 40 TDI utilizes a sophisticated chassis design featuring independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality and precise handling. The front suspension incorporates anti-roll bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control (ESC) as standard, enhancing safety and control. Steering is provided by an electric power steering system, offering a balance between assistance and feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi A5 Sportback 40 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, refined driving experience, and fuel efficiency. Compared to other trims in the A5 lineup, the 40 TDI offered a more affordable entry point while still providing a premium experience. Its fuel economy was notably better than the higher-output TDI variants, making it an attractive option for drivers who prioritize running costs. However, some critics noted that the 40 TDI lacked the outright performance of the more powerful models. Compared to competitors such as the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, the A5 Sportback 40 TDI offered a compelling combination of practicality, luxury, and efficiency.
Legacy
The 2.0-liter TDI engine and S tronic transmission combination used in the A5 Sportback 40 TDI have proven to be relatively reliable. While diesel engines can be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly, these engines are generally robust. The S tronic transmission, when properly maintained with regular fluid changes, is also known for its durability. On the used car market, the A5 Sportback 40 TDI remains a popular choice, offering a good balance of value, practicality, and refinement. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs continue to appeal to buyers seeking a premium vehicle without the high price tag of more powerful alternatives.
