Audi A5 Sportback joins a growing lineup, but only in Europe for now

Audi is shoehorning another model into its ever-expanding lineup--the A5 Sportback.

The Sportback joins the coupe and the convertible in Audi's A5 family. This model sports four doors and a hatchback, yet sits nearly 1.5 inches lower than the A4 sedan. But before you get excited, Audi has not committed to bring this car to the U.S. market.

The A5 Sportback is another entry into a growing segment in Europe--four-door cars with slick, coupelike rooflines. Other examples include the Volkswagen CC and the Mercedes-Benz CLS.

Buyers in Europe get a choice of six engines--three gasoline and three diesel. All are fitted with direct injection. The gasoline units range in output from 180 hp to 265 hp. The diesels range from 170 hp to 240 hp.

The transmission lineup covers the field--manual, dual clutch and automatic. The top models in the diesel and gasoline ranges are fitted with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Should we get the A5 Sportback here in the States? Let us and Audi know by posting your comments below.

By Dale Jewett