A five-star challenger; BILL CAVEN reckons the Audi A5 is set to make a big entrance into the luxury sports coupe sector.

Byline: BILL CAVEN

ALWAYS hungry for a challenge, Audi are about to take on their two Teutonic rivals in yet another segment of the market.

Mercedes-Benz and BMW dominate the luxury sports coupe sector just now, but Audi are hoping to change that with the launch of their all-new A5.

First deliveries of the dramatically-styled four-seat coupe aren't expected until July, but dealers are already taking advance orders. Prices start at pounds 30,175 for the 2.7 TDI and rise to pounds 39,725 for the S5 quattro.

The range-topping model will be a real treat for sports car enthusiasts with its 4.2-litre V8 FSI petrol engine that churns out an impressive 349bhp.

The potent powertrain allows the S5 quattro to power its way from rest to 62mph in a fraction over five seconds. If you keep the accelerator pedal firmly anchored to the ground, this awesome machine will keep going faster until the speedo needle reaches 155mph, at which stage the electronical limiter kicks in.

While the S5 quattro will take your breath away, the other A5 models are not far off the pace.

The two V6 turbo diesel injection engines - a revised 2.7-litre with 187bhp and a three-litre offering 237bhp - combine impressive performance figures with surprisingly frugal fuel economy figures.

The 2.7 TDI can get from 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds while returning 42.1mpg.

Even more impressively, the 3.0 TDI can clock up 62mph in a swift 5.9 seconds while still managing 39.2mpg on the combined cycle.

The other engine option is a new-generation 3.2-litre V6 petrol.

It takes just over six seconds to reach 62mph and can return 32.7mpg overall.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on all models, although a new version of Audi's acclaimed continuously variable automatic transmission will be an option on front-wheel-drive versions.

The A5's elegant two-door body hides a host of mould-breaking features.

The coupe has a radically-different suspension arrangement that ensures outstanding composure at all speeds.

In addition, the rack-and-pinion power steering has been completely re-engineered. It has also been repositioned ahead of the front axle, closer to the wheel centre line, to provide an even more direct feel and improved response.

At the rear, completely re-engineered trapexoidal link suspension plays its part in delivering slick sports coupe handling with an unruffled ride.

Factfile

Model: Audi A5 Engine: 3.2 V6 and 4.2-litre V8 petrol; 2.7 and three-litre diesel Power:187 to 349bhp Top speed: 144 to 155mph 0-62mph: 7.6 to 5.1 seconds Warranty: Three years/60,000 miles Price: pounds 30,175 to pounds 39,725 On sale: Order now (first deliveries in July)