The Audi A5 2 door all wheel drive luxury coupe debuted for the 2008 model year. In the Audi lineup, the A5 falls somewhere between the compact A4 and the mid size A6 and accommodates up to 4 adults. The cabin is furnished with high quality materials and has an alluring style that actually leans more toward sporty than luxurious, yet comfort and convenience are nicely accommodated throughout. Although it is not quite as sporty as the BMW or as well balanced as some Jaguar's, or as lavish as the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, the Audi A5 is the low price leader.

The 2008 A5 is Audi's entry level luxury coupe and there is only one, nicely equipped trim comes standard with 18 inch alloy wheels, a panoramic tilt up sunroof, fog lights, rain sensing wipers, power front seats, premium leather seats, 3 zone automatic climate control, and a 10-speaker audio system with CD changer and a satellite radio. Individual options include 19 inch alloy wheels, a self-opening trunk lid, auto-dimming mirrors, park assist (with rearview camera), bi-xenon headlights, keyless ignition, heated seats, Bluetooth, a navigation system with integrated iPod capability and a superior 505-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system. An S-line Option Package bundles 19 inch alloy wheels with a fine tuned sport suspension system, aggressively bolstered sport seats, stainless steal trim, and unique, sultry front and rear fascias. Paddle shifters are also included in the S-line package purchased for a vehicle with a Tiptronic transmission.

The A5 is propelled by a 3.2 liter V6 featuring direct injection technology that delivers 265 horsepower. Transmission choices are between a 6 speed manual and a 6 speed Tiptronic gearbox. The Tiptronic allows for fully automatic shifts or rapid manual shifts. In the 0-60 test, the A5 equipped with a manual transmission came in at a quick 5.8 seconds. When equipped with the Tiptronic transmission the time from 0-60 was only a 10th of a second longer.

There is plenty of power, but the manual transmission is less precise and the clutch is not quite as engaging as is typically associated with an Audi vehicle. Tenacious grip and responsive steering make the 2008 Audi A5 a delight to drive, particularly at higher speeds.