Until now, the Audi A5 has been recognised as a Coupe and a Convertible, but due to the brand's revised naming structure which uses odd numbers for its combustion engine vehicles, the A4's successor now carries the A5 Sedan badge.
The new A5 has just arrived in South Africa. The 2.0 TFSI S-Line is priced at R1 123 000 and the 2.0 TFSI quattro is priced at R1 238 000. Audi is also offering these two derivatives in a Black Edition specification, priced at R1 166 800 and R1 281 800 respectively. This positions it above the BMW 320i, which starts at R963 000 in M Sport trim, and the Mercedes-Benz C200, which is priced at R1 095 000 in AMG Line form.
The new A5 Sedan is the first Audi model to use the new Premium Platform Combustion architecture, or PPC.
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Although it carries the Sedan name, likely to create a stronger link to the A4 it replaces, the new A5 is technically a five-door hatchback. This follows a similar concept to the previous A5 Sportback model it also succeeds.
Inside, the A5 introduces the new Audi MMI Panoramic display. This system integrates an 11,9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14,5-inch central touch screen into one curved panel featuring OLED technology. An optional 10,9-inch screen for the front passenger is also available.
Audi has also enhanced the configurable head-up display, which can now be used to operate certain vehicle and infotainment functions. Full specifications for the local model range will be announced in the near future.
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Under the skin, every new A5 model features 48V mild hybrid plus technology. This system is reported to offer greater reductions in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption when compared to conventional mild hybrid systems.
The mild hybrid plus systems utilise a powertrain generator, or PTG, that can contribute up to 18kW to the combustion engine's output. To a limited extent, it can also power the vehicle using only electric energy during parking and low-speed manoeuvring.
Every South African version is equipped with a 2,0-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 146 kW and 340 Nm, enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7,8 seconds. Power is sent to the front wheels, or to all four wheels in the case of the quattro, via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The new S5 is also expected to be launched soon. It will feature a 3,0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine producing 270kW. This performance model will also be equipped with a quattro sport differential that includes torque vectoring.
Audi states that the chassis and steering systems have been comprehensively upgraded across all A5 models. The optional adaptive damping system now provides a wider spread between comfortable and dynamic handling characteristics.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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