Audi redesigns its A5 family of cars for 2018, and the changes bring welcome improvements. Audi's A5 was introduced with the 2008 model, and it's soldiered along for several long years without a redesign. The car's second generation begins with the 2018 model year. Audi's A5 family of vehicles—which includes the A5 and its two high-performance variants, the S5 and RS 5—has been updated with a complete top-to-bottom overhaul.

Redesigns can sometimes trigger panic in hardcore loyalists, but A5 fans needn't worry. With a dated amenities lineup, the previous-generation A5 was showing its age. The overhaul brings in fresh technology and driver-assistive features, all while maintaining the discreet, low-key opulence that has made the A5 a longstanding favorite. The A5's redesign also ushers in a new body style.

The coupe and convertible models are joined by a new four-door hatchback. In Audi-speak, this body style is known as the Sportback, and it brings useful cargo capacity to the model line. With the redesign and the addition of the Sportback body style, Audi has succeeded in making the A5 line of vehicles more modern and practical. But this model range comes with a flaw worth mentioning.

All models in the A5 family come with standard AWD, and this gives them more secure handling on wet roads. Audi has all-wheel drive down to a science. This feature sends power to all four wheels, and it improves traction on roads slick with rain or ice. With all-wheel drive, fuel economy typically takes a hit, but this isn't the case with Audi's superlative system.

The AWD A5 achieves fuel economy of up to 24/34 mpg city/highway. This equals or exceeds the mileage delivered by rear-wheel-drive (RWD) rivals. For example, the RWD BMW 4 Series achieves mileage of up to 24/34 mpg. And mileage for the gas-only RWD Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes in at up to 24/33 mpg.

Best of all, all-wheel drive is standard with the A5. This means you won't have to pay extra to get a feature that facilitates safer handling during rough weather. The A5's elegant cabin design proves you don't need flash or drama to make an impact. The line between luxury cars and their more accessibly priced counterparts becomes blurrier by the day. But cabin design is one area in which some premium vehicles earn their steep cost of admission. Audi's A5 distinguishes itself with a cabin whose look is opulent yet restrained.

The mood is plush and tasteful, and the materials used are first-rate all the way. From the sleek asymmetric design of the center console to the supple feel of the car's standard leather upholstery, the A5's cabin delivers a singularly compelling brand of luxury. The A5 Sportback joins the model line for 2018, and this body style brings beneficial utility. Coupes and convertibles are coveted for their good looks, but they're not the most practical choices in the automotive universe.

By adding the four-door Sportback model to the lineup, Audi has created a viable pick for shoppers who want an A5 that offers greater utility. Sportback models in the A5 family provide 21.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 35 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. That's a big step up from the coupe's 11.6 cubic feet of trunk capacity. If you've liked the look of the A5 but wished it offered more cargo room, Audi has answered your prayers.

Audi's RS 5 comes with a mighty 444-horsepower V6. By offering two high-performance variants, the A5 model line ensures buyers aren't starved for choice when it comes to exciting engines. The A5 comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that kicks out a robust 252 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. Stepping up to the S5 gets you a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that provides 354 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft.



For maximum thrills, the RS 5 is equipped with a turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 good for a whopping 444 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. This engine helps the RS 5 sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in a scant 3.7 seconds. A5 drivers enjoy driving dynamics that strike a pleasing balance between comfort and engagement. Audi's A5 embodies all the best traits of Germanic handling.