The Audi A5 Sportback 35 TDI (163 hp) S tronic, produced from December 2019 through 2024, represents a key variant within the F5 generation of the A5 Sportback. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible entry point into the A5 lineup, this model combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with Audi’s renowned 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. It catered to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable running costs within the premium compact executive car segment. The facelifted F5 generation, introduced in 2019, brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and refined engine options, including this 35 TDI configuration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A5 |
| Generation | A5 Sportback (F5, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 35 TDI (163 Hp) S tronic |
| Start of production | December, 2019 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.2-5.6 l/100 km (45.2 – 42 US mpg, 54.3 – 50.4 UK mpg, 19.2 – 17.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 135-148 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.2-4.5 l/100 km (56 – 52.3 US mpg, 67.3 – 62.8 UK mpg, 23.8 – 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4-3.9 l/100 km (69.2 – 60.3 US mpg, 83.1 – 72.4 UK mpg, 29.4 – 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.7-4.1 l/100 km (63.6 – 57.4 US mpg, 76.3 – 68.9 UK mpg, 27 – 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 98-108 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 (Calculated) |
| 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. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DEZE |
| 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 | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.2 l (12.89 US qt, 10.73 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.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1280 l (45.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal, 8.8 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12 l (3.17 US gal, 2.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (8%) | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4757 mm (187.28 in.) |
| Width | 1843 mm (72.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1386-1398 mm (54.57 – 55.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2824 mm (111.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Front overhang | 898 mm (35.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1035 mm (40.75 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A5 Sportback 35 TDI 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. The DEZE engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power and torque while improving efficiency. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 3250-4200 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-2750 rpm. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is a key component, offering rapid and smooth gear changes. This transmission features two separate clutches, one for odd and one for even gears, allowing for pre-selection of the next gear and minimizing interruption in power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp and 380 Nm of torque provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.4 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). Compared to higher-output A5 variants like the 40 TDI, the 35 TDI feels less urgent in acceleration, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the S tronic transmission helps to mitigate this, providing quick downshifts and responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, with higher gears prioritizing economy at cruising speeds. The engine is relatively quiet and refined, offering a comfortable driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A5 Sportback 35 TDI typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included Audi’s MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Standard safety features included Audi pre sense basic, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a larger MMI touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster (Audi virtual cockpit), a panoramic sunroof, and various driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and park assist. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together.
Chassis & Braking
The A5 Sportback 35 TDI utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent multi-link suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The rear suspension also employs an independent multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The chassis is tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a composed and predictable driving experience. The weight distribution is generally well-balanced, contributing to stable cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A5 Sportback 35 TDI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient option within the premium compact executive class. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined engine, and well-appointed interior. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the 35 TDI achieving impressive figures in real-world driving. Compared to the more powerful 40 TDI variant, the 35 TDI offered a lower price point and better fuel economy, but at the expense of outright performance. Against competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the A5 Sportback 35 TDI offered a compelling combination of style, comfort, and efficiency.
Legacy
The DEZE engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While diesel engines have faced increased scrutiny in recent years, the DEZE engine has generally maintained a good reputation for longevity. The S tronic transmission is also known for its reliability, provided it is serviced according to Audi’s recommendations. On the used car market, the A5 Sportback 35 TDI represents a good value proposition, offering a premium driving experience at a relatively affordable price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with diesel particulate filter (DPF) maintenance and AdBlue refills.
