Hey guys, let's dive into the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback test drive! If you're in the market for a car that blends sporty aesthetics with everyday practicality, then the A5 Sportback needs to be on your radar. Audi has always been known for its elegant design language, and the 2019 A5 Sportback is no exception. From the moment you lay eyes on it, you'll notice the sleek, flowing lines that give it a coupé-like silhouette, despite having four doors. This car isn't just about looks, though; it’s about offering a compelling package for those who want a bit of flair without sacrificing usability. We'll be exploring everything from its performance and handling to its interior comfort and tech features, giving you the lowdown on whether this German masterpiece is the right fit for your garage. So buckle up, because we're about to take a deep dive into what makes the A5 Sportback tick.

First Impressions: A Design That Turns Heads

When we talk about the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback test drive, the first thing that strikes you is its absolutely stunning design. Audi really nailed it with this model, guys. It’s got this sophisticated, almost timeless look that doesn't scream for attention but definitely commands it. The front fascia features Audi's signature Singleframe grille, flanked by sharp, aggressive LED headlights that give it a really determined gaze. As you move along the side, the sportback profile comes into play, with a gracefully sloping roofline that seamlessly integrates into the rear. This design choice is what gives the A5 Sportback its unique appeal – it’s a four-door sedan that looks like a sleek, two-door coupé. The character lines are crisp and precise, adding a sense of dynamism and athleticism. Even the rear end is beautifully executed, with a subtle lip spoiler and distinctive LED taillights that echo the front's sharp design. The 2019 model year brought subtle refinements, making it look even more modern and premium. It’s the kind of car that looks good parked in a driveway, arriving at a fancy restaurant, or just cruising down the highway. The proportions are just right, managing to be both elegant and sporty. We took it out on some winding roads, and honestly, people were taking notice. It’s not just a pretty face, though; this design also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency, which is a nice bonus. The overall impression is one of refined luxury and performance, a perfect blend that Audi is so good at achieving. You really feel like you’re driving something special when you’re behind the wheel of this car, and that’s a testament to its design team’s hard work. It's a car that bridges the gap between a traditional sedan and a sporty coupé, offering the best of both worlds in terms of style and practicality.

Under the Hood: Performance That Delivers

Now, let's get down to business, shall we? The 2019 Audi A5 Sportback test drive wouldn't be complete without talking about what's under the hood. For this model year, Audi offered a couple of solid powertrain options, but the one that really impressed us was the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerplant typically churns out a respectable 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque when paired with the quattro all-wheel-drive system. And let me tell you, it feels peppy. Acceleration is smooth and responsive, thanks to the quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic automatic transmission. Whether you're merging onto the highway or looking for a quick burst of speed to overtake, the A5 Sportback handles it with confidence and composure. It’s not going to pin you back in your seat like a full-blown RS model, but for daily driving and spirited weekend journeys, it’s more than enough grunt. The quattro all-wheel-drive system is a significant player here. It’s Audi’s renowned system that distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction and stability. This means you can tackle wet roads, slippery conditions, or just enjoy a more planted feel during spirited driving without breaking a sweat. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good sense of what the front wheels are doing, which is crucial for confident cornering. We found the ride quality to be a great balance – firm enough to feel sporty and connected to the road, but also compliant enough to soak up road imperfections, making longer journeys comfortable. It’s a sophisticated setup that makes the A5 Sportback feel composed and agile, whether you’re navigating city streets or carving up some mountain roads. The engine note, while not overtly aggressive, has a refined growl when you push it, adding to the overall premium experience. This combination of a strong, efficient engine and the intelligent quattro system makes the 2019 A5 Sportback a seriously enjoyable car to drive, offering a compelling blend of performance and everyday usability. It truly lives up to the Audi reputation for engineering excellence.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Premium Experience

Stepping inside the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback test drive reveals where Audi truly shines: its interiors. And guys, this cabin is a seriously nice place to be. From the moment you close the door, you’re greeted with a sense of quiet luxury. The materials used throughout the cabin are top-notch – soft-touch plastics, genuine leather, and stylish accents like brushed aluminum or wood trim (depending on the configuration). Everything feels solid and well-constructed, a hallmark of German engineering. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, offering plenty of adjustability to find your perfect driving position. Even on longer drives, we found them to be fatigue-reducing. The rear seats are surprisingly spacious for a car with a coupé-like roofline. While it’s a sportback, meaning it has four doors and a usable rear seat, adults can actually sit comfortably back there for a decent amount of time, which is a big win for practicality. The centerpiece of the dashboard is Audi's MMI infotainment system, and in the 2019 A5 Sportback, it's typically controlled via a rotary dial and buttons on the center console, or through the optional Virtual Cockpit. The MMI interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, with crisp graphics and quick response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are usually standard or available, making it simple to connect your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. The optional Audi Virtual Cockpit is a game-changer, replacing the traditional instrument cluster with a customizable digital display that can show everything from speed and RPM to navigation maps and media information. It's incredibly cool and futuristic. Other tech highlights often include features like a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, which sounds absolutely fantastic, and a suite of driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features not only enhance convenience but also contribute to a safer driving experience. The overall ambiance of the interior is sophisticated and modern, with ambient lighting options that can be adjusted to suit your mood. It’s a cabin that feels both technologically advanced and comfortably inviting, making every journey, whether short or long, a genuine pleasure. Audi has really created a space that feels premium and functional, a tough balance to strike but one they’ve mastered here.

Practicality Meets Sportiness: The Sportback Advantage

One of the most compelling aspects of the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback test drive is its unique blend of style and practicality. You see, it's a sportback, and that means it offers a different kind of utility than a traditional sedan or even a coupé. The key difference? That lifting rear hatch. Unlike a sedan's fixed trunk lid, the A5 Sportback opens up to reveal a much larger aperture, making it incredibly easy to load and unload bulky items. Think strollers, golf clubs, or even a small piece of furniture. The cargo space itself is generous for its class, providing ample room for your everyday needs or weekend getaway luggage. Furthermore, the rear seats in the A5 Sportback fold down, significantly expanding the cargo capacity when you need it. This versatility is a major selling point for those who need a car that can handle more than just commuting. It’s the perfect example of how Audi designers managed to create a car that looks like a sporty coupé but offers the functional advantages of a hatchback. Beyond cargo, the four-door layout ensures easy access to both the front and rear seats. Getting in and out is straightforward, even for rear passengers, which isn't always the case with cars sporting a low, coupé-like roofline. This practicality doesn't come at the expense of performance or style, which is crucial. The A5 Sportback maintains its sleek, athletic profile, and the driving dynamics remain sharp and engaging. It proves that you don't have to compromise. You can have a car that looks incredibly stylish and sporty, yet still has the space and versatility to accommodate your lifestyle. This duality is what sets the A5 Sportback apart in its segment. It’s a car that can confidently transition from a daily driver to a weekend adventure vehicle without missing a beat. For families, young professionals, or anyone who appreciates a car that can do it all with elegance, the sportback design is a massive win. It’s the ultimate expression of form meeting function in the premium compact executive car segment, offering a truly well-rounded package that appeals to a wide range of buyers looking for something a little different and a lot more useful.

The Verdict: Is the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback for You?

So, after our extensive 2019 Audi A5 Sportback test drive, what's the final word, guys? This car is a seriously impressive piece of engineering and design. It strikes a fantastic balance between sporty aesthetics, engaging performance, and genuine practicality. If you're looking for a car that turns heads with its elegant coupé-like styling but still offers the convenience of four doors and a versatile cargo area, the A5 Sportback is an excellent choice. The interior is a highlight, offering a premium, tech-filled environment that makes every journey a pleasure. The powertrain options provide enough punch for most drivers, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of confidence and capability, especially in adverse weather conditions. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about delivering a refined and enjoyable driving experience day in and day out. Whether you're navigating the urban jungle, embarking on a road trip, or just enjoying a spirited drive on the weekend, the A5 Sportback rises to the occasion. It's a car that feels sophisticated, competent, and genuinely fun to drive. While it might not be the most aggressively sporty option in its class, it offers a more mature, comfortable, and versatile approach that appeals to a broader audience. If you appreciate premium quality, smart technology, and a design that blends sophistication with a hint of sportiness, the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s a car that consistently delivers a high-quality experience, proving that you can indeed have it all – style, substance, and practicality – wrapped up in one beautiful package. It’s a testament to Audi's ability to create vehicles that are both aspirational and highly livable.