After 30 years, Audi is turning over a new leaf with a new naming scheme: The A4 becomes the A5. In future, the odd numbers will be assigned to the combustion engines, while the even numbers will be reserved for the electric models.
The new Audi A5 is the first model to be developed on the innovative "Premium Platform Combustion" (PPC) platform. It is available in four variants: Sedan and Avant, both also available as S models. With an increase in length of 67 mm compared to its predecessor and 72 mm more legroom in the rear, the A5 is positioned in the upper mid-size class.
The new A5 is one of the last models of the Marc Lichte era: large wheels, short overhangs and a flat body emphasize its dynamism. The wider, flatter front grille makes the car appear lower than before, while the low greenhouse and coupé-like rear window emphasize sporty elegance. The interior has also been completely redesigned.
Audi has opted for a modern electronic architecture in the new A5: navigation, electric tailgate and wireless charging for smartphones are now standard features. In the saloon, a large tailgate makes loading easier - as in the previous A5 Sportback.
There is a choice of eleven colors and several technology packages, including various lighting concepts. The optional OLED light strip at the rear offers eight light signatures and turns the A5 into a veritable display for the traffic behind - including warning symbols such as a digital warning triangle.
In the interior, the driver takes center stage: a curved OLED panoramic display and an optional passenger display create a digital stage. Artificial intelligence and over 800 assistance functions - including ChatGPT integration - take the driving experience to a new level. The ambient lighting gives the displays a floating appearance. The front passenger can use the infotainment system in private mode or assist with navigation.
The interior is visually stretched from door to door by horizontal "softwrap" elements, which improves the feeling of space. Fabric inserts in the door panels and armrests provide a homely feel, while high-gloss surfaces in the operating zone round off the sophisticated ambience. Dynamic light interaction supports certain functions and warnings.
The current emissions standards require manufacturers to produce even cleaner combustion engines. The new Audi A5 relies in part on further developed mild-hybrid drives, which have an additional output of 18 kW (24 hp) and can recuperate up to 25 kW. This electric assistance is particularly noticeable when pulling away and helps to reduce fuel consumption. The system also enables short, purely electric journeys in city traffic or when parking slowly.
Audi is offering three engine versions for the market launch: a 2.0 TFSI (110 kW/150 PS), a 2.0 TDI (150 kW/204 PS) and a sporty 3.0 TFSI V6 (270 kW/367 PS) for the S models. For the first time, a variably adjustable turbo is used in the TFSI, while the TDI is partially electrified.
Our driving impressions: The A5 positions itself confidently between the old A4 and the A6. Chassis, steering and comfort tend more towards the A6, while the A5 is really comfortable. However, the somewhat jerky shifting of the dual-clutch gearbox between first and second gear was noticed negatively in several test models.
Two engines were particularly convincing: the 150 hp petrol engine acting on the front wheels offered surprising agility, while the S5 with its V6 is ideal for sporty driving. The S5 impresses with its comfort and the beautiful sound in the interior, but those who want to enjoy the sound with the windows open in the tunnel will be disappointed.
You sit very comfortably in the new A5, the materials are modern. The head-up display is precise and the image is clear white. We liked the functionality of the ambient light strip above the dashboard, for example the green strip when flashing. There is a wider range of driving modes, but the "Balanced" mode is almost always ideal.
All in all, a well thought-out, all-round convincing and above all visually appealing model, available to order from July and in dealerships from November. Prices start at 45,200 euros, the Avant costs 1650 euros more, the S5 is just under 80,000 euros. (aum)
Data Audi A5 2.0 TFSI
Length x width x height (m): 4.84 x 1.86 x 1.43
Wheelbase (m): 2.90
Drive: 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, 110 kW/150 hp
Max. Torque: 280 Nm
Top speed: 216 km/h
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 9.8 sec.
WLTP average fuel consumption: 6.6 l/100 km
CO2 emissions: 150 g/km
Unladen weight: min. 1770 kg
Trunk volume: 445-1299 liters
Max. Towing capacity: 1900 kg
Base price: 45,200 euros
More info for topic: Audi A5 , Audi S5
Share this article: