2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI: A Stylish Choice

Hey guys, let's dive into the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI. If you're looking for a car that blends sophisticated styling with everyday practicality, this one might just be your cup of tea. The Sportback body style is where Audi really shines, offering a sleek, coupe-like silhouette while still giving you the added convenience of four doors and a liftback tailgate. It’s the kind of car that turns heads without being overly flashy, perfect for those who appreciate understated elegance. The '35 TFSI' designation tells us it's powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, which Audi typically tunes to provide a good balance of performance and efficiency. For 2019, the A5 Sportback received some subtle updates, refining its already handsome looks and perhaps tweaking its tech. We're talking about a car that feels premium inside and out, with Audi's signature build quality and attention to detail. Whether you're commuting to work, heading out for a weekend getaway, or just cruising around town, the A5 Sportback 35 TFSI aims to deliver a refined and enjoyable driving experience. It’s not just about looks, though; practicality is key with the Sportback. That sloping roofline doesn't compromise rear headroom as much as you might think, and the large boot opening makes loading and unloading a breeze. So, if you're in the market for a stylish, practical, and premium four-door coupe, the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI is definitely worth a closer look.

The Design: Sleek, Sporty, and Practical

When it comes to design, the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI really hits the sweet spot. Audi has a knack for creating cars that look timeless, and the A5 Sportback is a prime example. The 2019 model year brought a refreshed exterior that sharpens its already elegant lines. Up front, you'll notice a wider, flatter Singleframe grille, giving it a more aggressive stance on the road. The headlights, often featuring LED technology, are sculpted and modern, perfectly complementing the car's sporty demeanor. Moving along the side, the signature Sportback silhouette is what truly sets it apart. It’s that flowing roofline that swoops elegantly towards the rear, creating a coupe-like profile. But here’s the magic: unlike traditional coupes, the A5 Sportback retains four doors, making access to the rear seats much easier. And then there’s the liftback tailgate. This isn't your average sedan boot; it opens up wide, revealing a surprisingly generous and versatile cargo space. This blend of coupe aesthetics with hatchback practicality is a masterstroke, offering the best of both worlds. The proportions are just right – balanced, athletic, and sophisticated. Whether it's the sculpted shoulder line that runs the length of the car or the subtly integrated spoiler at the rear, every element has been carefully considered to enhance its visual appeal. It’s a design that manages to be both dynamic and elegant, suitable for a business meeting or a casual drive. The choice of alloy wheels, typically ranging from 17 to 19 inches for this model, further accentuates its sporty character. Even the rear end is beautifully executed, with distinctive LED taillights that add a touch of premium flair, especially when illuminated at night. The overall impression is one of refined sportiness, a car that looks good from every angle and exudes a sense of quality and modern design.

Performance: The 35 TFSI Engine Explained

Now, let's talk about what's under the hood – the 35 TFSI engine in the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback. This designation typically refers to Audi's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TFSI (Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection) engine. For the '35' model, this engine is usually tuned to produce around 150 horsepower, sometimes slightly more or less depending on the specific market and configuration. While 150 horsepower might not sound earth-shattering, what’s important is how it feels in real-world driving. This engine is known for delivering its power smoothly and effectively, thanks to the turbocharger providing ample torque from low revs. This means you get responsive acceleration when you need it, whether you're pulling away from a junction or overtaking slower traffic on the motorway. It's a very usable power output for everyday driving and makes the A5 Sportback feel agile and lively. The TFSI technology itself is a hallmark of Audi's engineering, focusing on efficiency and performance. It means you get the benefits of turbocharging – like better low-end grunt – combined with direct injection for precise fuel delivery. This combination helps to optimize fuel economy without sacrificing driving enjoyment. For the 2019 A5 Sportback 35 TFSI, this engine is typically paired with either a smooth-shifting manual gearbox or Audi's excellent S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. The S tronic, in particular, offers lightning-fast gear changes, adding to the sporty feel of the car. Front-wheel drive is standard for this configuration, which is perfectly adequate for providing good grip and handling, especially in dry conditions. The engine is also known for its refinement; it’s generally quiet and smooth, contributing to the overall premium feel of the car. So, while it might not be the most powerful engine in the A5 lineup, the 35 TFSI offers a very compelling package of efficiency, smooth performance, and everyday usability, making it a sensible and enjoyable choice for many drivers.

Interior and Technology: Premium Comfort and Connectivity

Stepping inside the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI, you're immediately greeted by that signature Audi cabin ambiance: clean, modern, and impeccably finished. Audi has long been praised for its interiors, and this model is no exception. The quality of materials used is top-notch. You’ll find soft-touch plastics, high-quality leather or synthetic leather upholstery, and precisely fitted trim pieces throughout. The dashboard design is driver-focused, with a logical layout that places all the essential controls within easy reach. The seats are typically comfortable and supportive, offering good adjustability to help you find the perfect driving position, which is crucial for those longer journeys. Ergonomics are excellent; everything feels intuitive and well-placed. Now, let's talk tech. For 2019, the A5 Sportback comes equipped with Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) infotainment system. While the specific screen size and features might vary depending on the trim level and optional extras, you can generally expect a vibrant display controlled via a rotary dial and buttons on the center console, or sometimes a touchscreen. Standard features often include Bluetooth connectivity for calls and audio streaming, USB ports for charging and media, and an integrated navigation system on higher trims or as an option. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are increasingly common for this model year, allowing seamless smartphone mirroring for navigation, music, and communication apps. Beyond the infotainment, Audi interiors are also known for their advanced driver-assistance systems. Depending on the options chosen, you might find features like adaptive cruise control, lane assist, parking sensors, and a rearview camera, all designed to enhance safety and convenience. The digital instrument cluster, known as Audi Virtual Cockpit, was also available, offering a fully customizable display of driving information, navigation, and media. Even without the Virtual Cockpit, the standard analogue dials are clear and easy to read. Ambient lighting options can add a further touch of sophistication to the cabin, especially at night. Overall, the interior of the A5 Sportback 35 TFSI is a place where comfort, technology, and premium quality converge, making every drive a pleasure.

Practicality: More Than Just a Pretty Face

One of the biggest draws of the Audi A5 Sportback is its surprising practicality, especially when you consider its sleek, coupe-like styling. Unlike a traditional two-door coupe, the Sportback offers four doors, which makes a huge difference for everyday usability. Getting in and out of the rear seats is far easier, making it a much more viable option if you regularly carry passengers or have kids. This is a big win for anyone who wants the sporty aesthetics of a coupe but needs the functionality of a sedan or hatchback. Then there's the liftback tailgate. This is where the Sportback really shines in terms of cargo space. The opening is large and wide, making it incredibly easy to load bulky items like suitcases, sports equipment, or even a small bike. The boot itself offers a respectable amount of space, typically around 480 liters, which is comparable to many sedans. However, the real advantage comes with the flexibility. With the rear seats folded down (they usually split 40/20/40), the cargo area expands significantly, creating a cavernous space that can handle much larger loads. This versatility makes the A5 Sportback suitable for a wider range of activities, from grocery runs to weekend camping trips. Even with the sloping roofline, Audi has done a commendable job with rear headroom. While it might not be as generous as in a more upright car like the A4 sedan or an SUV, it’s generally sufficient for most adults, unless they are particularly tall. Legroom in the rear is also decent for the class. The cabin itself offers good storage solutions, with cup holders, door bins, and a reasonably sized glovebox. So, while the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI certainly looks the part of a stylish, sporty car, don't underestimate its ability to handle the practical demands of daily life. It strikes an excellent balance between form and function, making it a truly compelling package for those who want a car that looks good and works well.

Driving Experience: Refined and Engaging

When you get behind the wheel of the 2019 Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI, you're stepping into a world of refined driving dynamics. Audi has a reputation for creating cars that offer a comfortable yet engaging experience, and the A5 Sportback lives up to that. The ride quality is a standout feature. It strikes an excellent balance between being supple enough to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, ensuring a comfortable journey, and firm enough to keep the car composed when you're tackling corners. This means you can enjoy long drives without feeling fatigued, while still having the confidence to push the car a little on twisty roads. The steering is typically precise and well-weighted. It provides good feedback from the road, allowing you to feel connected to what the front wheels are doing, which enhances confidence and enjoyment. For the 35 TFSI model, which is often front-wheel drive, the handling is predictable and secure. The car feels stable and planted, with good grip levels, especially in dry conditions. While it might not offer the same sharp, sporty feel as a rear-wheel-drive performance car, it provides a safe, reassuring, and enjoyable experience for everyday driving and spirited weekend excursions. The refinement of the 2.0-liter TFSI engine plays a significant role here. It delivers power smoothly and quietly, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere within the cabin. When you do need to accelerate, the turbocharger provides a responsive surge of power that makes overtaking maneuvers feel effortless. If equipped with the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, gear changes are rapid and seamless, further enhancing the feeling of smooth, efficient performance. The overall driving experience is one of sophisticated competence. It’s a car that feels solid, stable, and quiet at higher speeds, making it an excellent long-distance cruiser. Yet, it also remains agile and responsive enough to be fun on more challenging roads. Audi has managed to blend comfort, performance, and technology in a way that creates a truly premium driving experience, making the Audi A5 Sportback 35 TFSI a joy to drive in a variety of situations.