Thirty years after the debut of the Audi A4the Ingolstadt brand introduces the new Audi A5a model that aims to redefine the premium D segment. Offered in the sedan and Avant versions, the new generation stands out for its sportier design, cutting-edge interiors and improved technical efficiency, consolidating the Audi strategy which supports advanced thermal engines to an increasingly electric future. Thus, all the “even” models (A4; A6; Q6; Q4; Q8…) will be electric, vice versa, the “odd” models (A5; A7; Q5; Q7…) will remain thermal. We had the opportunity to preview the version TDI yes 204 CVa new generation 2.0 liter almost full hybrid. Here’s how it goes.
EVOLVED DESIGN
With a length of 4.83 meters, the new Audi A5 presents itself with more dynamic lines than the previous A4. The front is characterized by the iconic three-dimensional single frame and sharp headlights, while the marked Quattro blisters on the wheel arches recall the sporting heritage of the brand. The sedan version adopts a coupé style with sloped roof and integrated spoilerwhile the A5 Avant combines practicality and design thanks to the sloping rear pillars and the roof spoiler.
On the back, the light band continues between the light clusters and the rectangular exhaust terminals complete a clean and modern look. The range includes the sporty Audi S5, with specific details such as silver elements on the single frame and a dedicated rear extractor.
The interior of the A5 represents a significant evolution, with the Audi Digital Stage system at center stage. The configuration includes an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit, a 14.5-inch curved OLED central display and a unique 10.9-inch screen for the passenger. The latter, thanks to the Active Privacy function, allows you to watch videos without distracting the driver.
Human-machine interaction is made more intuitive by the voice assistant with AI technology, which uses ChatGPT to answer complex questions and manage advanced functions. The E3 1.2 electronic architecture allows for OTA updates and more efficient management of onboard technologies.
NEW ENGINES, NEW PLATFORM
The new Audi A5 introduces il sistema mild-hybrid (MHEV) plus a 48 Voltdesigned to improve efficiency and reduce consumption and emissions by up to 10%. This system supports TDI and TFSI engines, delivering up to 24 hp and 230 Nm of torque additional and recovering energy during deceleration. The engine range offers power ranging from 150 HP of the 2.0 TFSI to 367 HP of the V6 TFSI of the S5, with quattro ultra all-wheel drive options to guarantee high performance in all conditions. In 2025, Audi will introduce plug-in hybrid variants with an electric range of over 100 kilometres, further enriching the offer.
We tried the 204 HP TDI version, probably the most interesting for the Italian market. The evolution, compared to the previous generation, is immediately noticeable because the car actually moves thanks to the electric motor. Unlike the first mild hybrids, this time the electron drive allows the actual movement of the vehicle. This is a very important innovation for Audi which, in practical terms, allows it to reduce consumption.
Driving, the new A5 behaves very well. On the other hand, the frame, more rigid than in the past, offers greater precision and stability. The multilink suspensions, also available with adaptive shock absorbers, guarantee superior comfort and, in general, the attention to acoustic comfort and the quality of the internal materials allow it to ensure a high level of liveability.
The driving dynamics are very good and overall I really appreciated the excellent soundproofing: you travel in a muffled environment, protected from any external interference. It feels like being on board a flagship because the distance with the A6 is now getting smaller with each generation. The gearbox has an effective operating logic and perfectly satisfies any request from the driver, whether to obtain maximum performance or to take advantage of quiet and relaxed driving. Consumption is satisfactory: during the test the average was 5.2 liters per 100 km. An excellent result considering the segment it belongs to.
With the A5, Audi inaugurates the modular PPC platform (Premium Platform Combustion), demonstrating how internal combustion engines and electrified technologies can coexist in a long-term strategy. The new range is thus positioned as the bridge between the internal combustion era and the electric future.
PRICES AND VERSIONS
The arrival of the new Audi A5 is expected in Italian dealerships during the month of November 2024 with prices starting from 50,150 euros for the sedan, from 52,550 euros for the Avant in the 150 HP turbo petrol versions. To have the A5 Avant with the new 2.0 TDI 204 HP (central for the Italian market), the price starts from 59.250 euro.
The sportswoman S5 with a 3.0-litre V6 engine with 367 HP, it is offered starting from 83.200 euro for the sedan e 85.600 euro per la Avant.
Source: www.tomshw.it
