Audi will be releasing a host of models in coming years to expand into new segments as it attempts to topple BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the quest to sell more than a 1.5 million vehicles by 2015. Some of the cars in the pipeline include the A1 premium hatch, A7 four-door coupe and a Sportback version of the current A5 Coupe.
Earlier this week, Audi released the first details for the new A5 Sportback, which is set to go on sale in Europe following a debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Pricing in Europe will start at €33 650 for the base 2,0-litre TDI model, however Audi has confirmed that an even cheaper model will arrive in the middle of next year.
Described as offering the practicality of an Avant wagon with the elegant styling of a coupe, the new A5 Sportback features a five door body with an elongated profile. This coupe-like silhouette is the result of a roof section with a long, tapering roofline that is 36 mm lower than the A4 Sedan and of the short overhangs at the front and rear as well as the long wheelbase of 2 810 mm.
Inside, there’s 980-litres of storage available with the rear seats are folded and generous space for four adults.
Initially the A5 Sportback will be available with a choice of two petrol and three diesel engines. The two petrol versions, the 2.0 TFSI quattro with an output of 155 kW and 350 N.m of torque and the 3,2-litre V6 quattro generating 195 kW are both equipped with the Audi valvelift system. This feature can produce more power and higher torque as well as lower fuel consumption.
The following engines are also available right from the start: the 2,0-litre TDI with 125 kW and 350 N.m of torque, a 6-speed manual gearbox and start/stop system, the 2,7-litre TDI with 140 kW and 400 N.m of torque, and the 3,0-litre V6 TDI with 170 kW plus an enormous 500 N.m of maximum torque and quattro all-wheel drive.
To ensure optimal handling performance the A5 Sportback comes with a newly developed electronic stability program with an electronic differential lock on the front axle. The car also comes with the Audi drive select dynamic driving system, which allows the driver to choose between three different modes which influences the throttle response characteristics, the shift points for the seven-speed S tronic or multitronic transmissions, and supports the servotronic steering. If the vehicle is equipped with the MMI operating system, a fourth, freely programmable level is also available.
Expect more details to be released closer to the car’s unveiling in September.
