Audi has radically changed its nomenclature. All models with a fully electric powertrain will have an even number followed by the suffix e-Tron (like the Q6 e-Tron). Models with a conventional fuel engine (whether hybrid or not) will receive an odd designation. This logic explains why the conventionally powered A4 will now be referred to as the A5.
The change from “4” to “5” also implies a higher positioning. If we refer to the equipment and space available, this intention is confirmed. Like the previous A4, the A5 and A5 Avant share the same length. At 4.83 meters, the body is now 6.7 centimeters longer. It has also gained 1.3 centimeters in width (1.86 meters), while in height, the sedan (1.44 meters) and the Avant (1.46 meters) gain 2.4 and 1.1 centimeters respectively. Even more important is the 6.8 centimeter longer wheelbase: these 2.90 meters between the axles directly benefit the occupants’ legs. The trunk volume increases to 445 liters behind the rear seats of the sedan and to 476 liters behind those of the Avant. If we fold everything down, these volumes increase to 1299 liters and 1424 liters respectively.
The sedan becomes a Sportback
The most radical change concerns the sedan. The typical sedan silhouette now has a real fifth door. In other words: a Sportback that doesn’t look like one. The side windows have a frame, the roofline is less “steep” and the tailgate extends further than in the old A5 Sportback. In Ingolstadt, they talk regarding a necessary compromise, because the North American customer prefers four doors, while in Europe, when it comes to mid-size sedans, it’s better with a hatchback.
The A5 is the first car from the Volkswagen Group to use the Premium Combustion Platform (PPC), the counterpart to the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) on which the Q6 e-Tron is based. This new chassis is accompanied by a new E3 1.2 electro-architecture, consisting of five powerful control units providing the power required for all the car’s functions. This network is much more efficient than before, which translates into more advanced (digital) assistance systems on the A5.
Essence, diesel, MHEV & PHEV
At launch, you have the choice between two 2.0 TFSI (150 and 204 hp), a 2.0 TDI (204 hp) and the 3.0 V6 from the S5 (367 hp). Audi also combines a more advanced mild-hybrid assistance, but curiously only for the TDI and the S5. This assistance consists of an electric motor (PTG or powertrain generator) placed next to the gearbox, which draws its energy from a 1.8 kW (48-volt) lithium-iron-phosphate battery. The big advantage of the specific location of this synchronous electric motor is to expand the power range.
Not only when accelerating (up to 24 hp of power) or braking (up to 25 kW of recuperation), but also when fueling. When maneuvering or (very) slow driving, the A5 can rely solely on the PTG. Don’t expect miracles or a phenomenal all-electric range, but the system is said to save up to 0.38 liters of diesel (TDI) or 0.74 liters of gasoline (S5) every 100 kilometers.
Why no MHEV version of the TFSI? Simply to keep the entry-level price of the A5 at an acceptable level. But it is only a matter of time… because without it it would be extremely difficult to meet the Euro 7 standards with the TFSI. Two plug-in hybrids (PHEV) are also planned, later. For the time being, Audi is only giving out very little information regarding these versions, except that they will develop 300 and 367 hp respectively and that they should be able to travel more than 100 kilometers on a battery charge.
Large
In keeping with the current trend, the A5’s dashboard is dominated by screens. The Audi Virtual Cockpit (the instrument cluster) measures 11.9 inches, while the central touchscreen measures 14.5 inches. It is still possible to add a head-up display and an MMI Passenger Display as an option. The latter is a 10.9-inch passenger screen on which it is possible to project both information from the central infotainment system and content selected by the driver.
These contents range from digital games to music to complete series and films via selected streaming services (such as Disney+, YouTube and Amazon Prime, Audi unfortunately does not offer Netflix). This abundance of screens can potentially be distracting, especially if you complement them with the Dynamic Interaction Light, a light strip located just under the windshield that visually supports certain actions (indicator, navigation notification, blind spot warning, etc.)
OLED technology lets you play with the rear light signature. Specifically, you can choose from eight different configurations, including a dynamic variant that makes the rear lights sparkle. The daytime running lights of the Matrix headlights also offer eight different renderings, but less “spectacular”. The Audi A5 and A5 Avant promise a mix of advanced technologies, improved performance and increased comfort levels, with which Audi intends to strengthen its position in the mid-size car segment.
