Over 50mpg in new Audi A5 coupé

The stylish A5 coupé can now be ordered with Audi's new common rail 2.0-litre TDI engine, giving buyers impressive figures of 53mpg and 140g/km of CO₂.

In keeping with the sporting image of the A5, the highest power version of the turbodiesel engine is employed, with 168bhp at the driver's disposal.

So-equipped, the entry-level front-wheel drive version covers the 0-62mph sprint in 8.3 seconds and has a top speed of 140mph.

The quattro four-wheel drive model is fraction quicker off the line, but the extra weight of the transmission drops the fuel economy to 47.9mpg and CO₂ output rises to 156g/km.

Both front- and four-wheel drive variants come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox and prices start at £28,485 and £30,010 respectively.

It's difficult not to compare the A5 2.0 TDI to BMW's 320d Coupé, as the cars are priced to compete directly. BMW still holds the edge on paper, with significantly lower emissions, a little more power and slightly better fuel economy.

In an effort to further the appeal of the A5, the arrival of the 2.0 TDI model coincides with the introduction of the S line specification to the coupé.

S line models attract a £2,250 premium, which covers larger alloy wheels, a sporty body kit, interior enhancements, Xenon lights with LED daytime running lights and the no-cost option of a more driver focused suspension.

Audi A5 buyers now have the option of six different engines and we expect the 2.0 TDI version to be one of the biggest sellers.

Shane O' Donoghue