There are roads and then there are the roads of the Côte d’Azur. Straight out of the movies, this impossibly picturesque part of the world boasts a wondrous ribbon of blacktop that was the international launch location for the all-new Audi A5 models – a familiar name but with a completely new interpretation.

In keeping with the brand’s new model designations, all odd numbers are now reserved for vehicles with internal combustion, while the even numbers designate electric drive. In the case of the A5 models, that has meant more than just naming rights, with the new model effectively combining the A4 and A5 models in a completely new vehicle that is produced as both a five-door Sedan and Avant – complete with S performance variants of both.

Expected to arrive in Australia in the first half of 2025, specific details of the local vehicles is yet to be confirmed, but at its international drive event, the new A5 impressed all comers with its new styling and increased size as well as its performance and sharp handling characteristics.

As well as completely new styling, the new A5 models also see the launch of the first engines with the new MHEV plus technology from Audi. This is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with powertrain generator, belt starter alternator and lithium iron phosphate battery. The MHEV plus system raises the performance and efficiency of the new Audi A5 and S5 models, adding up to 18kW of electric power to the equation when added performance is required and allowing purely electric driving during stop-and-go in the cut and thrust of city driving. 

It also allows regeneration with the powertrain generator feeding up to 25kW of energy back into the lithium iron phosphate battery during braking. This in return aids in acceleration off the line as required.

The MHEV plus system also helps reduce fuel consumption as well as aiding in the operation of electric vehicle systems even when the combustion engine is not in use – sitting at traffic lights for instance.

Perfectly complementing the performance-oriented powertrains, the chassis of both the A5 Sedan and Avant have been developed for dynamic and agile handling as well as passenger comfort. 

The steering has been mounted directly to the body and also uses a significantly stiffer torsion bar, while a more rear bias in the anti-roll stabilisation and a stiffer connection to the rear axle, also add to the overall feeling of agility.

The integrated brake control system with brake torque vectoring enables a dynamic build-up of brake pressure as well as assisting with dynamic cornering through targeted braking interventions at the wheels on the inside of the corner.

In standard form the A5 is produced with steel suspension while the performance S models receive S sport suspension as standard. An optional S sports suspension with electronic damper control is also available, offering a wider spread between the individual driving modes that can be selected via the Audi drive select dynamic handling system.

The result is a car that has received significant praise for its spritely handling and point to point performance, with, not surprisingly the S5 leading the way with its combination of performance and driver feedback on the driving roads of the Nice hinterland.

The A5 models also see the introduction of the brand’s new interior design language and a host of new in-car technology designed to further enhance the driving experience. From the sweeping panoramic display that greets you upon entering the car to the less visible but no less impressive technology like the revised Audi assistant. 

From the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and the 14.5-inch Audi MMI panoramic display, to the optionally available 10.9-inch MMI passenger display, this new design and use of technology gives the A5 and S5 models a completely new look and ergonomic efficiency. The arrangement also adds to the feeling of space, extending as it does right across the width of the vehicle and the staged layout also imparts a 3D feel that is even more acute at night with the ambient strip lighting in use.

Highlights like the head-up display (HUD) in the new Audi A5 models was also newly developed, with the visible image area more than 85 percent larger than before as well as being configurable. The HUD now displays information such as speed, assistance systems, navigation instructions and the newly designed steering wheel controls allow users to scroll through lists and make direct selections without taking their eyes off the road. Calls can also be received and made via the HUD. Depending on the model and equipment, there are also further display modes.

The A5 models can also be ordered with the optional Bang & Olufsen Premium sound system with 3D sound and headrest speakers. A total of 20 loudspeakers and two amplifiers with 810 watts of power provide a unique audio experience, while the four speakers integrated into the front headrests of the optional sports seats create a personal surround sound experience and provide an immersive sound experience. Even when not listening to music the headrest mounted speakers can be used for phone calls and the driver can also have navigation commands routed directly to their headrest so that other passengers aren’t disturbed.

The new Audi A5 models also feature the aforementioned Audi assistant, a voice assistant that understands natural language and also learns independently. The driver activates the assistant via the voice command ‘Hey Audi’ or via a button on the steering wheel.

The exact specification for Australian A5 and S5 models will be confirmed along with pricing ahead of the vehicles’ local introduction which is expected to be in the first of of 2025. In the meantime, register your interest on the Audi website to be kept up-to-date on this all-new model.