2021 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro
The 2021 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro is a mild-hybrid hatchback. It has a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 261 hp (195 kW), with a 7-speed automated manual and all-wheel drive. 0–60 mph takes 5.6 seconds and top speed is 130 mph (209 km/h).
ABOUT THE 2021 AUDI A5 SPORTBACK S LINE QUATTRO
The 2021 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro is a five-door liftback from the second-generation A5 range (B9). This entry covers the 45 TFSI version, with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder rated at 261 hp and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm), a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic and quattro all-wheel drive. A 12-volt mild-hybrid system supports the engine.
Changes for 2021
The 2021 model year brought a reorganised US A5 range. All-wheel drive became standard across the line-up, and the four-cylinder engines were offered in two outputs: 201 hp in the 40 TFSI and 261 hp in the 45 TFSI. The S line package adds sportier bumpers, S line badging and other visual upgrades, making this the more dynamic-looking of the four-cylinder Sportbacks.
Practicality
The Sportback looks like a four-door coupe, but its tailgate opens to reveal a large boot that is much more versatile than an A4 saloon’s, especially with the rear seats folded. Rear-seat space is reasonable, though the sloping roof means tall passengers may find headroom tight.
Buying one today
The EA888 2.0 TFSI is a widely used engine with commonly reported issues including water pump and thermostat housing leaks. Check that the dual-clutch transmission’s fluid service has been carried out on time and that the MMI touchscreen and driver aids function correctly.
Rivals
The Kia Stinger offered a similar liftback formula, while the BMW 330i xDrive, Mercedes-Benz C 300 4MATIC and Volvo S60 were the more conventional saloon alternatives.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | Audi | Model | A5 Sportback S line quattro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2021 | Version / Trim | Audi 2021 A5 Sportback S line quattro |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Doors | 5 |
| Seats | 5 | Ext. Colour | Ibis White, Mythos Black Metallic, Florett Silver Metallic, Chronos Gray Metallic, Glacier White Metallic, Navarra Blue Metallic, Tango Red Metallic, District Green Metallic, Ultra Blue Metallic, Arrow Gray Metallic |
| Steering | LHD / RHD | Manufactured In | Germany |
| Drive | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Transmission | Automatic (AM-S7) |
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl Turbo | Engine Size | 2,000 cc |
| Power | 261 hp / 195 kW | Torque | 370 Nm / 273 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | 5.6 sec | Top Speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Range / Economy | 24 mpg city / 31 mpg hwy | ||
| Wheelbase | 2,824 mm | Kerb Weight | 1,565 kg (3,450 lb) |
HOW IT COMPARES WITH OTHER 2021 HATCHBACKS
Compared with other 2021 hatchbacks in our database, its 261 hp is 78% more than the average 2021 hatchback (146 hp), and it reaches 60 mph 3.1 seconds quicker than average, and it is 17% heavier than the typical hatchback.
| 2021 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro | Average 2021 hatchbacks | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 261 hp | 146 hp (13 cars) | +78% |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 189 Nm (13 cars) | +96% |
| 0–60 mph | 5.6 s | 8.7 s (12 cars) | -36% |
| Top speed | 130 mph | 109 mph (13 cars) | +20% |
| Kerb weight | 1,565 kg | 1,335 kg (13 cars) | +17% |
| Engine size | 2,000 cc | 1,900 cc (10 cars) | +5% |
Averages are calculated from all cars of the same model year and body type in the CarDetails.org database that have the figure listed. For 0–60 mph, a negative difference means quicker.
CLOSEST RIVALS
Other 2021 hatchbacks with similar power to the 2021 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro | 261 hp | 5.6 s | 1,565 kg |
| 2021 BYD Dolphin Standard | 204 hp | 7.0 s | 1,468 kg |