Shifting the six-speed is a real pleasure once you're accustomed to the relatively light lever action, and the satisfaction derived from a perfectly timed dual-clutched downshift is entirely in keeping with the delight one feels driving a coupe with elegant looks and a wonderfully refined persona.
Sure, coupes are inconvenient when you want to get into the back seat (which is otherwise respectably roomy), but the sense of intimacy and privilege makes up for that in spades. You feel indulged by the isolated, controlled ride and the accurate response of the steering, which is weighted more substantially than almost any Audi this side of the R8. And, of course, the quattro all-wheel-drive system helps share the turn-and-drive chores among all wheels, giving the A5 pleasantly balanced handling.
OK, so the A5 isn't inexpensive at $41,205, but it has pretty much all you need. Other than navigation, that is. But portables are not expensive. If Audi intended to provide personal indulgence with this beautiful coupe, I think the company nailed it.
