Engine and transmission options are now simpler, too. The new A5 is powered by a 268-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the sportier S5 boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 362 hp. The entry-level 201-hp engine is no longer available. Unlike the BMW 3-Series, there’s no plug-in hybrid version. Every A5 and S5 gets standard all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission used in other Audi and Volkswagen models. Audi promises better handling and sharper steering for a sportier feel.
The current-generation A4, A4 Allroad, S4, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, and high-performance RS5 Sportback will remain on sale as 2025 models alongside the new-generation A5 and S5, which will also sell as 2025 models but ditch the Sportback name.
As far as looks, the new A5 evolves existing Audi designs. The current model’s giant grille opening is now divided into less prominent air intakes, some of its harsher angles have been softened, and the rear now features prominent wraparound taillights. The new A5 is a little bigger, too.
As with all Audis, A5 buyers will have to decipher a lot of brand-specific jargon. Aside from Sportback, the A5 and forthcoming Q5 and A7 are all based on a shared vehicle design platform for internal-combustion vehicles that Audi calls Premium Platform Combustion. The infotainment system that puts nearly all of the A5’s controls onto a wide touchscreen is called Digital Stage. As always, Audi calls its all-wheel-drive system Quattro, and the dual-clutch transmission is named S Tronic.
We’ll share our initial thoughts about the A5 as soon as we purchase one at a local dealership for our test program. Eventually, we’ll put our own A5 through more than 50 tests at our 327-acre test facility. In the meantime, you can read our preview of the new model based on information we have from Audi.
What it competes with: Acura TLX, Alfa Romeo Giulia, BMW 3Series, Cadillac CT5, Genesis G70, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Powertrains: 268-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (A5) or 362-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine (S5); 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission; all-wheel drive
Starting Price: $47,700-$59,900
On sale: Spring 2025
