Skip advert
Advertisement

Coupe of the Year 2017: Audi A5 Coupe

The Audi A5 is the 2017 Auto Express Coupe of the Year, with the Audi TT and Porsche 718 Cayman commended

If you ask what most buyers want from a great coupe, then ‘head-turning style’ is probably at the top of their list. However, any contender to the crown in this category needs much more than a pretty face to succeed – and that’s where the Audi A5 scores so highly.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Based on an all-new platform, the handsome A5 follows the same template as its successful predecessor by providing similarly sleek lines, surprising practicality and an interior that oozes premium appeal.

But the latest-generation version moves the game on significantly thanks to its vastly improved driving dynamics, performance, efficiency and infotainment. The foundations of the A5’s award-winning display can be traced back to the light and strong VW Group MLB Evo platform under the skin; this made its debut on Audi’s A4 saloon. Draped over this advanced architecture is a body that combines curves, creases and carefully considered detailing to eye-catching effect.

Yet the designers haven’t limited their efforts to the exterior, because just as much attention has been lavished on the A5’s cabin, which is one of the best in the business. Slickly styled and dripping in high-quality materials, it helps make every journey in the car something to savour.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Adding to the upmarket ambience is Audi’s Virtual Cockpit layout, which replaces the traditional instrument dials with a vast 12.3-inch configurable TFT screen. Yet there’s space to go with the grace, as the beautifully crafted interior can comfortably accommodate four adults, while the 465-litre boot is big enough to swallow all their luggage.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The A5 drives as well as it looks, too, particularly when equipped with the company’s famed quattro four-wheel-drive system. Yet like all the best coupe models, the Audi is just as adept at playing the role of grand tourer, thanks to its strong refinement and decent comfort.

Audi A5 Coupe - rear

As you’d expect, there’s also a wide array of highly capable petrol and diesel engines, as well as the pulse-quickening S5 and RS5 versions. Combining style and substance, the desirable and talented A5 Coupe has all the bases covered.

Our choice

Audi A5 Coupe 2.0 TFSI quattro Sport (£40,570)

Sophisticated Audi suits the smooth and extremely punchy 249bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine, while quattro four-wheel-drive transmission delivers secure and engaging handling. Sport specification brings all the equipment you’ll need and won’t break the bank to buy. 

Commended

Audi TT 

Audi TT - front

Sharply styled TT has been knocked off the top spot by its big brother in the range, but it’s still a hugely alluring coupe. Great to drive, superbly finished and packed with technology, the low-slung Audi is a fine choice for buyers who want to stand out on the road.

Porsche 718 Cayman

Porsche 718 Cayman - front

The new turbocharged four-cylinder engine remains a bone of contention for diehard Porsche fans. Yet while it lacks the spine-tingling soundtrack of the old car, it delivers stunning performance. However, sublime handling and driver engagement are the 718 Cayman’s major calling cards. 

Auto Express New Car Awards 2017

For complete, in-depth coverage of the 2017 New Car Awards, buy your collector's edition copy of the Auto Express magazine now or click here to subscribe...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Continue Reading

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Best executive cars to buy 2025
Best executive cars - May 2025

Best executive cars to buy 2025

These executive cars add a real touch of class to every journey
Best cars & vans
19 May 2025
Porsche Cayman EV testing gets serious at the Nurburgring
Porsche Cayman EV at Nurburgring (camouflaged) - front

Porsche Cayman EV testing gets serious at the Nurburgring

Cutting-edge battery technology is in store for Porsche’s all-electric sports car
News
6 May 2025
Best diesel cars 2025
Best diesel cars - header image

Best diesel cars 2025

Diesel power strikes a balance between performance and fuel economy, and these are the best diesel cars you can buy
Best cars & vans
28 Apr 2025
New Audi TT: electric sports car confirmed for the first time
Audi TT design render (watermarked)

New Audi TT: electric sports car confirmed for the first time

The TT looks set for a sensational comeback thanks to the latest electric technology shared with Porsche
News
16 Apr 2025

Most Popular

New Ford Fiesta: latest details on supermini’s potential return
Ford Fiesta exclusive image

New Ford Fiesta: latest details on supermini’s potential return

The Ford Fiesta could be coming back as an electric car, and here’s everything we know so far
News
20 May 2025
Flawed hybrid car efficiency data to stifle UK EV sales and propagate pollution
Connecting charger to Hyundai Tucson PHEV

Flawed hybrid car efficiency data to stifle UK EV sales and propagate pollution

Half a million extra PHEVs could reach UK roads by 2030 in place of cleaner EVs due to changes surrounding the ZEV Mandate
News
19 May 2025
Labour hints at major luxury car tax U-turn to boost EV sales
Luxury car tax

Labour hints at major luxury car tax U-turn to boost EV sales

Is pressure from retailers and car makers finally cutting through with ministers?
News
22 May 2025