3.2.2012 Audi launches fuel efficient A5 TDIe

New TDIe versions of the Audi A5 Coupe and Sportback have made the model particularly efficient, bringing 64.2 mpg potential with CO2 outputs as low as 115 g/km.

The 2.0 litre TDIe engines used in the coupe models deliver 163PS, and the Sportback offers a 136PS version with similar attributes. The range is now available with a new cost-effective SE Technik specification, and priced from just £27,320 on the road.

Both four-cylinder diesel engines are characterised by low internal friction for optimum operating efficiency, variable turbine geometry for the sharpest possible response across the rev range and a new centrifugal governor in a dual-mass flywheel designed to further boost refinement. The new, lighter flywheel also improves engine response at low revs and therefore permits earlier up-shifts for more efficient driving.

The A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe 136PS can accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 9.5 seconds, reach a top speed of 132 mph where conditions allow and return up to 64.2 mpg according to the official combined cycle test, equating to impressively low CO2 output of 117 g/km. The 163PS version reduces the acceleration time to 8.7 seconds, increases the top speed to 137mph and yet is still able to achieve up to 62.8 mpg with a negligible increase in CO2 output to 118 g/km.

In the Coupe the 163PS engine fares even better – this is most fuel efficient model in the range. It accelerates to 62 mph in 8.4 seconds on the way to a top speed of 140 mph, raising economy to 64.2 mpg and taking CO2 to 115 g/km, the lowest level in the revised range. In each case these engines are linked exclusively to six-speed manual transmission. The 163PS TDIe engine also available in A5 Coupe priced from £28,775 OTR.

In addition to the new 'e' units the TDI range in the A5 Sportback continues to include 143PS and 177PS versions of the 2.0-litre engine, and the 3.0-litre V6 TDI in 204PS and 245PS forms, the latter linked to quattro all-wheel-drive without exception. The A5 Coupe is available with the 177PS 2.0-litre TDI and the two V6 TDIs.

In both Sportback and Coupe models, all the four-cylinder TDI engines can be combined with a new, highly cost effective SE Technik specification. At a premium of £1,000 on top of the SE model price for the Sportback or £500 on top of the SE price for the Coupe, it adds DVD satellite navigation, Audi Music Interface (AMI) iPod connection, the Audi Parking Plus system with front and rear sensors and cruise control to the familiar SE equipment list.

In both models SE specification already includes 17-inch alloy wheels, Milano leather upholstery, three-zone climate control, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation and a colour Driver's Information System (DIS). Both TDIe engines are also available allied to Standard, SE and S line trim in the A5 Sportback, and Standard and SE in the Coupe.

With the most efficient model in the range, the 163PS Coupe returning just 115 gCO2/km, it will become a strong competitor to other low emission executive cars in its category, such as the EfficientDynamics BMW 3 Series, or offerings from Volvo or Saab. With company car tax BIK rate of just 13%, and VED road tax free in the first year and then just £30 annually thereafter, the TDIe A5 is likely to become a popular choice for company fleets, and private owners alike.

Newspress