The Audi A5 Sportback (F5) 35 TDI S tronic represents a compelling entry point into the A5 Sportback range, launched in 2019. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical grand tourer, this variant combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with Audi’s renowned seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance between performance, economy, and the stylish aesthetics of the A5 Sportback’s fastback body style. This model year was a single production year for this configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (F5) |
| Type (Engine) | 35 TDI (163 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4-4.5 l/100 km (53.5 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.6-3.9 l/100 km (65.3 – 60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9-4.1 l/100 km (60.3 – 57.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 103-108 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 226 km/h (140.43 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP – EVAP – ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 3250-4200 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DEZE |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2120 kg (4673.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 595 kg (1311.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 465 l (16.42 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 35 TDI S tronic is the Volkswagen Group’s DEZE engine – a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and torque, mitigating turbo lag and improving responsiveness. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 3250-4200 rpm and a substantial 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-2750 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of modern turbocharged diesel engines, providing strong pulling power across a wide range of engine speeds.
The engine is paired with Audi’s seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and fuel 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. This results in virtually seamless shifts and minimizes power interruption. The transmission is front-wheel drive in this configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp and 380 Nm of torque provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 8 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 140 mph. The S tronic transmission plays a crucial role in maximizing the available power, providing quick downshifts for overtaking and maintaining optimal engine speed during acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 40 TDI variants, the 35 TDI feels less urgent, but its strength lies in its relaxed cruising ability and impressive fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing comfortable highway driving over outright performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 35 TDI S tronic typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display, three-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Standard safety equipment included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Common optional extras included a larger MMI display, navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback utilizes a sophisticated independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear axles. This provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The front suspension features ventilated disc brakes, while the rear utilizes solid disc brakes. The braking system is assisted by ABS and electronic brake-force distribution. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and refinement, rather than outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A5 Sportback 35 TDI S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful TDI variants. Compared to the 40 TDI, the 35 TDI offered a more affordable entry point into the A5 Sportback range, but at the expense of performance. Its fuel economy figures were competitive with other diesel-powered vehicles in its class, and its reliability was generally considered to be good.
Legacy
The DEZE engine, in various iterations, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The S tronic transmission, while more complex than a traditional automatic, has also demonstrated good long-term reliability when properly maintained. In the used car market, the A5 Sportback 35 TDI S tronic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish, fuel-efficient, and practical grand tourer. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and adherence to the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of this powertrain.
