Unsung Hero: Audi A5

In my line of work, I get to spend a good amount of time around some pretty awesome cars. Among all the cars I've encountered thus far, today's Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency definitely sits towards the top of my list. The Audi A5 is an absolutely beautiful car, and YES, it is fuel-efficient. We'll discuss that more a bit later.

I stopped by Checkered Flag Audi on my way home, and talked with sales consultant Bill Thomas about the A5. Well, Bill did most of the talking, while I tried my best to contain my excitement. I really like this car, especially in the Monza Silver. The A5 is a midsize luxury sports coupe. Along with the A5 (starting at $40,300), it's also available as an S5 sports model (starting at $50,9000).

Under the hood, the A5 has a 3.2 liter FSI V6 that produces 265-hp. The S5 has a powerful 4.2 liter V8 engine and hp gets a boost to 354. Both engines have FSI Direct Injection, variable intake valve and intake manifold, and the Audi Valvelift system. FSI stands for fuel stratified injection. This technology allows the A5 to deliver great performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency. It gets 27 miles on the highway, and 18 in the city. With a 16.9 gallon tank, you're looking at about 460 miles with one fill up.

The A5 with its stylish exterior is what initially caught my attention, but the interior shouldn't be overlooked. It comfortably seats four passengers. Standard features include electrically adjustable front seats; full automatic three-zone climate control; panoramic tilt-up sunroof; and an Audi sound system. The sound system brings 180 watts of power with 10 speakers and subwoofer.

There are a ton of options available on the A5, but highlights include: LED daytime running lamps equipped with Bi-Xenon headlamps and the Bang and Olufsen Sound system, which consists digital signal processing (DSP) and ICEpower digital amplification, booming 505 watts, and 14 speakers. Several different package options are also available for you to choose from. Visit here for details.

Audi also outfitted the A5 with a ton of safety features. Advanced anti-theft vehicle alarm system; protective airbag system (two-stage driver airbag, adaptive passenger airbags; seat-mounted side airbags; sideguard side curtain airbags); central locking system; crash sensor; side impact protection all come standard.

Bill says the A5 is an "all-around great sports car." You'll hear no arguments from me. It's captured my fancy, but decide for yourself by visiting Checkered Flag Audi, 2865 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.