The Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI (150 hp) Multitronic, produced from approximately April 2014 to 2015, represents a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and Audi’s signature refinement within the B8.5 generation (8TA facelift) A5 Sportback range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this variant aimed to deliver a balance between performance and fuel economy, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and comfortable grand tourer. The Sportback body style, a five-door fastback, distinguished itself from the coupe and cabriolet versions by offering enhanced rear passenger access and cargo capacity. This model played a significant role in Audi’s strategy to broaden the A5’s appeal beyond the traditional coupe market, particularly in Europe where such body styles are highly favored.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (8TA, facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (150 Hp) Multitronic |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3-5.7 l/100 km (44.4 – 41.3 US mpg, 53.3 – 49.6 UK mpg, 18.9 – 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.6 l/100 km (57.4 – 51.1 US mpg, 68.9 – 61.4 UK mpg, 24.4 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-5.0 l/100 km (51.1 – 47 US mpg, 61.4 – 56.5 UK mpg, 21.7 – 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119-131 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-3250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CSUA |
| 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 | 1615 kg (3560.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 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%) | 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 | 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 | 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this A5 Sportback variant is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, designated CSUA. This engine is a member of the Volkswagen Group’s modular engine family, known for its compact dimensions and efficiency. It features common rail direct injection, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The 18:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing thermal efficiency. The Multitronic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was paired with this engine. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Multitronic uses a chain-driven system to provide a seamless and stepless gear change, optimizing engine efficiency and providing smooth acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque offered by this engine configuration provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 127.38 mph. While not a sports car, the A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI Multitronic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The Multitronic transmission contributed to smooth acceleration and minimized gear shifts. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TFSI or 3.0 TDI variants, this model prioritized fuel economy over outright performance. The CVT, while efficient, sometimes lacked the direct feel of a traditional automatic or manual transmission, and could exhibit a slight “rubber band” effect during hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI Multitronic 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 generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, parking sensors, and upgraded sound systems. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered progressive enhancements in terms of interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback featured a sophisticated chassis design. Front suspension utilized an independent multi-link setup, providing excellent ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed an independent trapezoidal link design. Braking consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for both city driving and long-distance journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI Multitronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical interior. However, some reviewers noted that the Multitronic transmission could feel less engaging than a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. Compared to the higher-output TDI variants, this model offered a more affordable entry point into the A5 Sportback range, but at the expense of performance. Its fuel economy was competitive with other diesel-powered vehicles in its class, and its reliability was generally considered good.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDI Multitronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The 2.0 TDI engine is known for its durability, and the Multitronic transmission, while requiring regular maintenance (fluid changes are crucial), can provide years of service. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of maintaining the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and ensuring the AdBlue system is functioning correctly. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish, practical, and fuel-efficient grand tourer.
