The Audi A4 As You Know It Is Dead

The Audi A4 as we've known it for decades is dead.

Enter the A5–once known as the coupe version of the A4, it's now Audi's combustion-powered mid-size sedan–leaving even-numbered vehicles as electric, with odd-numbered ones remaining powered by liquid fuel. The new A5 has a sleek look, cutting-edge technology, and a choice between two lively internal combustion engines.

The base model packs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 268 horsepower, sent to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. For those craving more power, the S5 variant is available with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 producing 362 horsepower, also sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission—the first time this transmission has been used in an S5. The S5’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system is paired with a Quattro sport differential featuring torque vectoring.

The new A5 is the first vehicle to utilize Audi's new Premium Platform Combustion architecture, adaptable for front- or all-wheel drive and supporting both gas and hybrid powertrains.

The new A5 is larger and features a wide grille, prominent vents, and genuine tailpipes at the rear. LED daytime running lights illuminate the front, and second-generation OLEDs light the rear, with dynamic lighting effects offering up to eight customizable options.

Inside, Audi's design focuses on a 'human-centric' approach, ensuring comfort and safety. The 'Digital Stage' comprises two MMI infotainment displays providing vital information to both driver and passenger. The longer wheelbase increases interior space, and despite the raked rear profile, there’s decent headroom in the second row. U.S.-spec models come standard with a tinted panoramic sunroof, with a dimmable electrochromic roof available on higher trims.

The infotainment setup includes a freestanding, slim OLED MMI display, an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit screen, and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. An optional 10.9-inch display is available for passengers, along with a configurable head-up display that allows drivers to control vehicle and infotainment functions. This architecture and tech are shared with the Q6 E-Tron and will likely be integrated into more models in the future.

The A5 and S5 come loaded with features. The optional passenger screen lets the co-pilot manage navigation or stream content while on the move, with a special coating to prevent the driver from being distracted. A Bang and Olufsen sound system with headrest speakers is available, offering dual-zone functionality so passengers can enjoy music or movies while the driver takes calls.

In North America, both models will be offered solely as sedans, while international markets will also get an Avant version– it's unclear if North America will continue to get All-Road models. Unfortunately, there are no plans for a coupe or convertible. The A5 family is expected to hit U.S. shores in spring/summer 2025, with details on U.S. pricing, fuel economy, options packages, and trim levels yet to be revealed.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

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