The Audi A5 Sportback (F5) 35 TFSI S tronic represents a compelling entry point into the A5 Sportback range, produced between 2018 and 2019. Positioned as a balance between efficiency and usability, this variant combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with Audi’s renowned seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. It occupied the lower-mid range of the A5 Sportback lineup, slotting below the more powerful 40 TFSI and 45 TFSI models, and offering a more accessible price point than its higher-performance siblings. The F5 generation A5 Sportback, built on the MLB Evo platform (shared with other Volkswagen Group vehicles), aimed to blend the sleek styling of a coupe with the practicality of a hatchback, offering a unique proposition in the premium compact executive car segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (F5) |
| Type (Engine) | 35 TFSI (150 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) | 7.3-7.5 l/100 km (32.2 – 31.4 US mpg, 38.7 – 37.7 UK mpg, 13.7 – 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7-5.0 l/100 km (50 – 47 US mpg, 60.1 – 56.5 UK mpg, 21.3 – 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7-5.9 l/100 km (41.3 – 39.9 US mpg, 49.6 – 47.9 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129-135 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 223 km/h (138.57 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3900-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1350-3900 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1350-3900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DLVB |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 465 l (16.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 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 35 TFSI S tronic is the DLVB engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to deliver a balance of power and efficiency. The engine’s output of 150 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque is achieved through careful calibration of the engine management system. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering rapid and smooth gear changes. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp and 270 Nm of torque provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.6 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 138.57 mph. While not as brisk as the higher-powered A5 variants, the 35 TFSI S tronic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The S tronic transmission contributes to this, providing quick shifts and a responsive feel. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with taller gearing in higher gears to reduce engine speed at cruising speeds. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the S tronic offers greater convenience, particularly in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display, automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Standard safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included larger alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, upgraded upholstery, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added cosmetic enhancements and additional convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension utilizes coil springs and dampers, while the rear suspension incorporates a more sophisticated setup to optimize stability and control. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A5 Sportback 35 TFSI S tronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted that the 150 hp engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to the 40 TFSI and 45 TFSI models, the 35 TFSI offered better fuel economy but less outright performance. Its fuel economy figures of around 41.3-39.9 US mpg combined were competitive within its segment. Reliability reports suggest that the DLVB engine and S tronic transmission are generally reliable, although regular maintenance is essential.
Legacy
The Audi A5 Sportback (F5) 35 TFSI S tronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its blend of style, practicality, and efficiency continues to appeal to buyers seeking a premium compact executive car. The DLVB engine and S tronic transmission have proven to be durable and relatively trouble-free, provided they are properly maintained. While not the fastest A5 variant, the 35 TFSI S tronic offers a compelling value proposition for those prioritizing comfort, fuel economy, and a refined driving experience.
