It’s no secret that small-capacity petrol engines are on the increase, especially those with a turbocharger or a supercharger, as is the case with the VW Group’s series of TFSI engines.
Smaller-than-usual versions of this engine are making their way into the sports and performance segment, which is what has happened to the A5 – now available with a 170hp 1.8-litre TFSI unit.
Despite the assumption that a sporting car requires a large, powerful engine, the A5, like many of its brethren, benefits enormously from a modest powerplant. Yes, faster versions are available, but it’s still capable of 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds and 143mph, while emitting 134g/km and returning a claimed average of 49.6mpg.
The sweet little engine is a boon for keen drivers – it requires some effort but is all the more rewarding for it. The A5’s staid handling lets it down, but Audi‘s usual fine build quality and the coupe’s fetching exterior redress the balance.
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