The Audi A5 has long been celebrated for its captivating design, and the 2009 model year was no exception. While some critics debated its exterior styling, there was universal praise for its interior. Stepping inside the 2009 Audi A5 is an experience in itself. The original reviewer even boldly declared it the “world’s best automotive interior,” emphasizing the unparalleled look, feel, and functionality of the cabin. From the tactile feedback of the controls to the overall ambiance, the A5’s interior set a new benchmark. However, beyond the aesthetics, how does the 2009 Audi A5 perform, especially the manual transmission variant? Let’s delve into a comprehensive look at this vehicle, focusing on the driving experience offered by the often-debated manual gearbox.
Exterior Aesthetics: A Subjective Masterpiece
The design of the 2009 Audi A5 sparked considerable discussion. The original review acknowledges the subjective nature of car aesthetics, noting that enthusiasts often form strong attachments regardless of critical opinions. While conceding the A5’s rear end is undeniably attractive, the reviewer expressed reservations about other design elements. Terms like “gangsta greenhouse” and “Billy The Big Mouth Bass maw” were used to describe aspects that didn’t resonate with everyone. Ultimately, exterior styling remains a personal preference, and the A5’s design, while not universally praised in every detail, undoubtedly contributed to its iconic status.
Engine and Performance: Smooth Power Delivery
Under the hood, the 2009 Audi A5 3.2 Quattro boasts a 3.2-liter V6 engine, delivering 265 horsepower. This engine is characterized by its smooth and responsive power delivery. The review highlights the engine’s duality, feeling both torquey at lower RPMs for everyday driving and remarkably smooth at higher RPMs for more spirited excursions. The engine encourages early shifts for optimal torque utilization, even prompting gear changes via a dashboard display. Despite its ability to rev high and achieve a 0-60 mph time of around 5.8 seconds, the review questions the necessity for such aggressive driving in this car, hinting at a possibly less engaging driving experience overall, which becomes more prominent when discussing the manual transmission.
The Manual Transmission Experience: A Point of Contention
The six-speed manual transmission in the 2009 Audi A5 is where the review becomes notably critical. Echoing another reviewer’s sentiment of it not being “Audi’s finest hour,” the article bluntly labels it “crap.” The criticisms are directed at the ponderous clutch and vague shifter feel. The review points out a “dead zone” between gears and a lack of precision in gear engagement, comparing it unfavorably. The difficulty in achieving smooth shifts, particularly between first and second gear, is emphasized. This less-than-ideal manual gearbox experience leads the reviewer to suggest that Audi should have equipped all A5s with their superior DSG transmission, especially considering the small percentage of drivers in the US comfortable with manual transmissions. For potential owners of a 2009 Audi A5 Manual, this is a crucial point to consider. Issues with the clutch or gearbox might be something to look out for, and test driving a manual version is highly recommended to assess personal tolerance for these shortcomings.
Handling and Dynamics: Capable but Uninspiring?
Despite the manual transmission’s drawbacks, the 2009 Audi A5’s handling receives praise, particularly when equipped with the S-Line and Drive Select packages. These options include 19-inch summer tires and a stiffer suspension, contributing to minimal body roll and substantial grip during cornering. The Drive Select system allows drivers to adjust ride stiffness, offering a degree of customization. However, even with these performance-oriented features and a rear-biased torque split, the reviewer finds the driving experience somewhat detached and uninspiring. The engine and exhaust notes are described as muted, further contributing to a less engaging feel, even when driving dynamically. This suggests that while the A5 is undoubtedly capable in terms of handling, it might lack the visceral feedback and excitement sought by some driving enthusiasts.
Conclusion: Style Over Substance for the Manual A5?
The 2009 Audi A5 3.2 Quattro manual is presented as a vehicle with a distinct dichotomy. Its interior is lauded as exceptional, and its exterior, while divisive, is undeniably stylish. The engine offers a blend of smooth power and refinement. However, the manual transmission is a significant weak point, detracting from the overall driving experience. The handling is competent but lacks engagement. The review concludes that the A5 might fall “between two stools,” not fully excelling as either a comfortable cruiser or an exhilarating sports car in manual guise.
Ultimately, the review suggests that the primary appeal of the 2009 Audi A5, particularly the manual version, may lie in its visual appeal and interior ambiance. For someone prioritizing these aspects, the A5 remains a compelling choice. However, potential buyers seeking a truly engaging and rewarding manual driving experience might find the A5’s gearbox disappointing. If considering a 2009 Audi A5 manual, thoroughly evaluating the transmission’s feel and performance is crucial to ensure it aligns with personal driving preferences. For those less concerned with ultimate driver engagement, or perhaps considering an automatic transmission, the Audi A5’s other strengths, especially its interior and styling, may still make it a worthwhile consideration.
