Audi has announced the new A5 Sportback: a mid-sized hatchback/estate/saloon version of the A5 coupe, which itself is effectively the coupe version of Audi’s midsized estate/saloon car, the A4.

The latest ‘niche’ car will be available with two petrol and three diesel engines from launch, all of which are direct injection. The 2-litre TFSI is connected to the front wheels and produces 211hp and 258lb ft, while the four-wheel drive 3.2-litre V6 FSI version offers 265hp. The diesel versions come in the form of a 2-litre motor with 170hp and 258lb ft, a 2.7-litre with 190hp and 295lb ft and a 3-litre V6 with 240hp and 369lb ft.

All the front wheel drive versions will come with Audi’s version of the electronic limited slip differential, which works by applying a braking force to a spinning inside wheel, while the four wheel-drive versions are available with a ‘sport differential’. Both six-speed manual and seven-speed paddleshift transmission will be available.

All the versions can be ordered with ‘drive select dynamic driving system’, which allows the driver to choose between three different modes for throttle response, shift points for the auto boxes and power steering settings. If the car has Audi’s MMI (multimedia interface) a fourth, programmable setting is available. If you’re going to have drive select you’ll have to order adaptive shock absorber control, dynamic steering with continuously  variable assistance or the ‘sport differential’.

The A5 Sportback will be available this September with the 2-litre TDI costing €36,050 (£30,761).