You know, the Audi design language is quite simple and minimal, I would say. Rooted in the Bauhaus philosophy, it features a series of intersecting curves and straight lines. When I gaze upon the new generation Audi A5 saloon, which replaces the A4, my eyes are immediately drawn to the minimalist kink in the rear C-pillar. This new styling element, never seen before in the previous Audi A4’s design history, is, to say the least, quite distracting.
I understand that the design team aimed to introduce a fresh styling element into the A5’s lineage, but it just seems out of place and fails to integrate smoothly into the overall design philosophy. Nonetheless, it’s a significant improvement over the ageing A4. Anyway, enough from me—here’s what you need to know about the new generation Audi A5.
The new A5 is slightly bigger and longer than the A4 it replaces and is available in both saloon and estate body styles. The most noteworthy upgrade, in my opinion, isn’t the more efficient engines, new all-electric powertrains, or cutting-edge technology. Rather, it’s the addition of a rear hatch opening on the new A5 saloon, making it far more practical than the traditional boot opening of its predecessor. At this point, I’m already sold on the A5.
The Interior
The Audi A5 offer increased levels of space and of comfort over its predecessor. The digital technology is dominated by a massive curved panoramic OLED display integrating the 11.9 inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch MMI touch display.
An optional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display is also integrated into the dashboard design.
The new A5 has an optional, configurable head-up display that has been further developed compared to its predecessor (standard on S5).
For the first time, drivers now have the option of controlling vehicle and infotainment functions via the head-up display.
Engines
The entry-level mild-hybrid engine is a 2.0 TFSI with 150PS. Sitting above this, the same engine is available with an output of 204 PS. The turbo four-cylinder is available only with a dual-clutch gearbox and both power outputs are front-wheel drive only in the UK.
Audi will offer a 2.0-litre diesel engine but after Dieselgate we’re no longer inclined to detail it because we still remember the lies. The A5 will be offered with a newly developed hybrid powertrain.
The S5 performance variant is powered by a 360bhp, 48-volt MHEV 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine. The revised S tronic dual-clutch transmission in the Audi S5, designed for more torque, also reduces the weight on the front axle and improves agility.
Dynamic Chassis And Steering
Audis engineers have tuned the suspension and steering, to offer precise and largely neutral handling. The suspension with adaptive dampers (standard S5 only) brings significantly more differentiation between comfort and sportiness.
The Audi A5 and Audi S5 will be launched in Germany and numerous other European countries in November. In the UK, the Audi A5 family will be available to order from August 13 when full UK pricing and specifications will also be announced.