Audi A5 Unveiled: Performance and Efficiency Meet Style in New Platform

In a significant shift, Audi has unveiled the A5 globally as a complete replacement for the A4 lineup. This aligns with the brand’s new naming strategy where odd numbers designate gasoline vehicles. The A5 range also debuts Audi’s cutting-edge Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, promising enhanced performance and efficiency.

A Stance on Style and Space

Thanks to the PPC platform, the A5 boasts a more commanding presence. It stretches 67mm longer than the outgoing A4, reaching a total length of 4.83 meters. Width is also increased by 13mm to 1.86 meters, while the wheelbase sees a substantial 68mm jump to 2.9 meters, translating to a more spacious cabin.

Visually, the A5 retains the essence of the A4 design but incorporates elements from the A6 e-tron concept. Highlights include the signature “Quattro muscle” flared wheel arches, innovative OLED light units with eight programmable display patterns, and prominent exhaust tips. The overall aesthetic leans towards a cleaner and sleeker look, aligning with Audi’s current design language. Larger wheels, a lower profile, and a redesigned front fascia with a honeycomb grille and sleeker LED headlamps further elevate the sporty appeal.

The rear echoes current trends with a full-width OLED light bar that boasts configurable lighting signatures according to Audi. A diffuser element and dual exhausts complete the athletic look.

High-Tech Interior Experience

Step inside the A5, and you’ll find a cabin that shares its technological marvels with the Q6 e-tron. The centerpiece is a stunning curved display incorporating an 11.9-inch digital driver display and a massive 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. This touchscreen consolidates climate control and seat adjustments, offering a streamlined user experience. As an optional upgrade, Audi provides a 10.9-inch touchscreen for the front passenger, complete with a privacy filter to avoid distractions for the driver. Slim air conditioning vents flank the central touchscreen, and the center console adopts a minimalist approach with fewer physical buttons. Replacing the traditional gear selector is an electronic toggle switch for a modern touch.

Engine Options and Performance

Audi equips the A5 with a choice of two 2.0-liter TFSI engines – one for gasoline and another for diesel (TDI). Both are paired with dual-clutch automatic transmissions as standard. The entry-level 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine delivers 148 bhp and comes exclusively in a front-wheel-drive configuration. A more powerful 201 bhp variant with optional Quattro all-wheel drive caters to those seeking additional performance.

The diesel A5 utilizes a 2.0-liter EA288 EVO TDI turbo-diesel engine integrated with Audi’s new MHEV Plus technology. This combination is expected to generate 201 bhp and a substantial 400 Nm of peak torque. The engine will be available in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options.

For driving enthusiasts, the sportier S5 gets a larger 3.0-liter V6 turbo-petrol unit producing 362 bhp. This engine also benefits from the MHEV Plus tech and comes standard with quattro all-wheel drive and a sport differential for enhanced torque vectoring. A dual-clutch automatic gearbox rounds out the S5’s performance package.

India Arrival and Expectations

No official launch date for the A5 in India is set, but its arrival seems likely given the A4’s success since 2021. Expect a petrol-powered sedan variant to compete with established rivals like the C-Class and 3 Series, likely starting around Rs 55 lakh.