The Future of Combustion Engines: Introducing MHEV Plus Technology
Ingolstadt/Neckarsulm, July 16, 2024 – Audi is embarking on a new chapter in its storied mid-size segment history with the introduction of the latest A5 family. Thirty years after the debut of the original Audi A4, the reimagined Audi A5 emerges, showcasing a bold design language and impeccable proportions. Both the Saloon and Avant body styles epitomize Audi’s commitment to sporty elegance. Inside, a redefined interior design promotes a sense of spaciousness and integrates advanced digital displays, enhancing user interaction. The range is completed with efficient, partially electrified combustion engines and exhilarating S models.
Model Renaming and New Variants
Since 2024, Audi has restructured its vehicle naming convention to distinguish between electric and combustion-engine models. Electric models are designated by even numbers, while combustion-engine vehicles are assigned odd numbers. With this change, the perennial favorite, the Audi A4, transitions to the Audi A5. Manufactured in Neckarsulm, the new A5 lineup includes four variants: A5 and S5 Saloon, and A5 and S5 Avant. These are the inaugural models on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC).
CEO Gernot Döllner’s Vision
Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi, emphasizes the significance of this new model family: “Alongside our expanding electric portfolio, we’re introducing a new generation of models with efficient combustion engines. The Audi A5 family, with its athletic design, all-new interior, and cutting-edge electronic architecture, leads the way. Our advanced MHEV plus technology supports partially electric driving, promoting greater efficiency.”
Enhanced Design and Features
The new A5 models have grown in length and width, boasting an expanded list of standard features that position them in the upper mid-size segment. The enhanced user experience, powered by the E³ electronic architecture version 1.2, reflects this elevated status.
Exterior Design: Dynamic and Muscular
The redesigned A5 family immediately impresses with its powerful and clean design. The elongated wheelbase, large wheels, and low, sporty body exude progressive dynamism. The Saloon features a sweeping, coupé-like greenhouse that transitions seamlessly into a shallow rear window and ends at a short tailgate with a striking spoiler lip. The innovative rear hatch combines design and functionality, providing easy access to the luggage compartment.
The Avant variant showcases a dynamic, taut roofline that merges into an integrated roof spoiler, emphasizing its sporty rear profile. At the front, the wide and flatter Singleframe grille, with its three-dimensional honeycomb structure, pairs with slim headlights to create a focused expression. The pronounced blisters over the wheel arches echo the iconic Audi Ur quattro, a staple of Audi’s design heritage.
Rear Design and Lighting
The distinctive rear design blends sporty aesthetics with intelligent technology. The offset light strip adds visual dynamism, while the dark diffuser and high-quality rectangular exhaust tips enhance the base models’ modern look.
Digital Lighting Innovations
The A5 family introduces digital daytime running lights with LED technology and second-generation digital OLED rear lights (S5 only in the UK). With approximately 60 segments per OLED panel, these lights facilitate car-to-x communication, enhancing road safety with features like the new communication light. Dynamic lighting effects on unlocking and departure highlight Audi’s light DNA, while active digital light signatures convey a sense of liveliness.
Interior: Technology and Comfort
The A5’s interior design prioritizes user needs, featuring the Digital Stage with Audi MMI displays prominently in view. The Material Driven Design approach ensures a spacious and comfortable environment, complemented by the layout’s visual clarity. The dynamic interaction light (standard on S5) supports car-occupant interaction.
Advanced Digital Displays
The A5 integrates seamlessly into digital ecosystems, offering personalized connectivity experiences. The slim, free-standing Audi MMI panoramic display uses OLED technology, comprising an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. An additional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display (Edition 1 spec) integrates perfectly into the dashboard. The configurable head-up display, now standard on the S5, allows drivers to control vehicle and infotainment functions effortlessly.
MHEV Plus: A Leap in Efficiency
The new MHEV plus system, based on a 48-volt electrical system, supports the combustion engine, reducing CO2 emissions and enhancing performance. The powertrain generator (PTG) enables electric driving components, contributing to fuel efficiency. Compared to traditional MHEV systems, the MHEV plus offers significant CO2 and fuel consumption reductions, up to 17 g/km in certain models. The PTG can add up to 24PS of electric power, with regenerative braking capabilities that allow for purely electric maneuvering and parking.
Engine Options at Launch
The A5 family offers a wide range of efficient engines, catering to diverse driving preferences. The entry-level 2.0 TFSI engine delivers 150PS, with a higher output version at 204PS. Both versions come with a dual-clutch gearbox and front-wheel drive in the UK. The 2.0 TDI engine, equipped with MHEV plus technology, offers 204PS and 400Nm of torque, available with front-wheel drive or quattro ultra. The S5 sports a 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine with variable turbine geometry and MHEV plus technology, providing dynamic performance and reduced CO2 emissions.
Chassis and Steering: Precision and Comfort
The new A5’s suspension, with adaptive dampers (standard on S5), offers a balanced blend of comfort and sportiness. The precise Audi progressive steering enhances handling, ensuring an engaging driving experience.
Launch and Pricing
The Audi A5 and S5 will be available in Germany and other European markets from November. UK orders open on August 13, with full pricing and specifications to be announced.
