Audi stretches out in style

Audi A5 Sportback. Photo / Supplied

The latest Audi to arrive in New Zealand is the A5 Sportback, a stretched version of the coupe, if you like, that gets a longer wheelbase, more doors and a tailgate.

Like the two-door coupe and cabriolet, it is based on A4-derived architecture and uses Audi's MLB (Modulare Langsbaukasten) family componentry.

MLB is Audi-speak for the new centralised layout of the engine, gearbox and steering systems over the front axle for improved weight distribution and dynamics. Two Sportback models are available, one powered by a 2-litre TFSI direct-injection petrol unit priced from $89,990 and the other by a 3-litre V6 turbocharged diesel starting at $109,990.

The 2-litre car weighs 1615kg and the 3-litre 1720kg. Both use Audi's trademark Torsen differential quattro all-wheel drive system working in conjunction with an uprated double-clutch seven-speed S-tronic transmission.

In normal conditions, the system splits drive 60 per cent to the rear and 40 per cent up front. But if things get tricky underfoot, up to 65 per cent can go to the front end and up to 85 per cent to the rear.

The 2-litre unit delivers 155kW between 4300 and 6000rpm and 350Nm of torque between 1500 and 4200rpm.

Audi claims the 2-litre variant sprints from zero to 100km/h in 6.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 241km/h, averages 7.5 litres/100km (36mpg) and emits 174 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.

In contrast, the turbocharged 3-litre TDI quattro V6 produces 176kW from 4000 to 4400rpm and 500Nm from 1500 to 3000rpm.

It is slightly quicker to 100km/h, has a higher top speed, returns 6.6 litres/100km (42mpg) and comes with an equal 174g/km of CO2 rating.

Both models use Audi's energy recuperation system, recovered during braking and deceleration and stored temporarily in the battery.

The cabin is designed for four people and comes with only four seatbelts as a result. Interior space is comparable to the A4, says Audi, although rear space is hampered by the sloping rear.

The liftback can swallow 480 litres of luggage, or 980 litres if the split-fold rear seats are dropped.

As with all A5s, the Sportback version uses a five-link front and trapezoidal-link rear suspension system, along with a hydraulically powered rack and pinion steering system and dual-circuit brakes with ventilated discs up front and solid discs at the rear.

The go-faster S5 Sportback is expected later in the year, powered by a supercharged 3-litre TFSI V6.