Once known as the Audi 80, then rebranded as the A4, the model now firmly retains the name Audi A5, originally reserved for the coupé model. Today, Audi surprised many by unveiling the new A5 Sedan and Avant.
The design is the sportiest to date, and the new A5 is the first Audi to run on the brand’s new PPC platform (Premium Platform Combustion). The new name comes after the new lineup, with even numbers intended for electric cars, and odd numbers to ICE ones.
The new A5 will be available only as a station wagon and sedan, with the old two-door A5 no longer part of the lineup. However, the sedan version is more like a hatchback, reminiscent of the previous A5 Sportback, providing better access to the luggage compartment.
Although the new A5 is longer than the previous A4 (2,900 mm), its interior space is reduced due to the mild-hybrid technology, which takes up room in the trunk. The sedan version offers 445 liters of space, and up to 1,999 liters with the rear seats folded down.
This is 15 liters less than the previous A4 Sedan and 20 liters less than the old A5 Sportback. The station wagon version offers 476 liters of space.
Technological Marvels of the Cabin
The new A5 sets a new standard in its class with a curved panoramic screen as the centerpiece of the cabin.
There are actually three screens: an 11.9” digital instrument cluster and a 14.5” touchscreen for the Audi MMI infotainment system.
An improved head-up display ensures the driver can keep their eyes on the road, while an optional 10.9” screen for the passenger adds extra luxury and entertainment on long trips. Comfort is also a priority, with Audi promising more cabin space than previous models.
Still With Diesel or Petrol Engines
For now, the A5 avoids going fully electric and starts with a reliable 2.0-liter turbocharged TFSI four-cylinder engine.
This engine is upgraded with a variable geometry turbocharger (VTG) and an optimized combustion process to improve efficiency.
In Europe, the engine is available in two variants: one with 150 hp (front-wheel drive) and one with 204 hp (all-wheel drive).
Another alternative in Europe and selected markets is an updated 2.0-liter TDI turbo diesel, equipped with the new 48-Volt MHEV plus system. This diesel engine benefits from mild-hybrid technology to reduce emissions.
The base engine delivers 204 hp and 400 Nm, while the electric motor adds an extra 24 hp for more power.
S5 For Those Seeking Adrenaline
For those seeking serious thrills, the S5 raises the bar with an updated 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine. This powerful engine also gets the MHEV plus mild-hybrid treatment and delivers an impressive 367 hp – 13 hp more than the previous S4 and S5 models.
All this power is sent to all four wheels via a fast-shifting S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission, and Audi’s quattro sport differential with torque vectoring ensures you can take corners with confidence.
Audi A5 Continues to Battle the Same Competitors for 30 Years
It will be exciting to see how long Audi maintains its fossil-fuel cars and how the new A5 fares against competitors like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, not to mention the BMW M340i and Mercedes-AMG C43.
