E numbers that add up for business

More efficient diesel engines for Audi A5 Sportback and Coupe models

WE would never force anything artificial down the throats of our readers – well, bar the odd conceit – but here’s some E numbers that really do add up to a better product for business.

New lower-emission diesel engines have been added to Audi’s attractive 5 range: the Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe and Audi A5 Coupe 2.0 TDIe.

Which will please those busines drivers wanting one of these sleek executives as a company car.

The Audi A5 Sportback 2.0 TDIe features a 136PS engine with a six-speed manual gearbox. With CO2 emissions of 117g/km, the benefit in kind company car tax band for the 2.0 TDIe Sportback is 17% for the 2012/12 tax year.

That’s one band lower than the standard 177PS 2.0 TDI diesel model which stays in the range. Prices start at £27,320 for the A5 SportbackTDIe, slightly lower than the £27,825 for the standard 2.0 litre model.

Fuel consumption is better, too, as you would expect: 64.2mpg.

Turning to the stylish Coupe model, the 2.0 TDIe engine is tuned for more power – 163PS – but its sleeker shape results in even lower CO2 emissions of 115g/km, although fuel consumption is the same as the five-door Sportback.

The new engine provides the A5 Coupe with a benefit in kind company car tax banding of 17%, a band lower than the standard 177PS model.