By Tinashe Zvakasikwa
Johannesburg, South Africa (News of the South) Although the Paris motor show isn’t until September, Audi has already released its newest edition, the Audi A5 coup. Being a gentle visual evolution of the old A5 and one that takes cues from the new Audi A4, this one has two rather than four doors and a more sharply tapering rear that makes it more astounding.
Audi is rightfully cautious to keep the original car’s proportions and visual appeal. Thus the front grille is larger, flatter, and more dominant, and the headlights more aggressive. But the sweeping curves that run from nose to tail still take the same path. Audi says that this line tightening has cut the car’s drag coefficient and that the taught appearance also hides the fact that the new car’s wheelbase is longer adding comfort for the rear-seat passengers.
However, under the skin, things are revolutionary. The A5 is 60kg lighter and therefore more efficient than its predecessor and combined with a completely new chassis set-up. The cabin offers the right visual balance of luxury, sport and cutting-edge tech.
It can be specified with the all-digital virtual cockpit where gauges are ditched in favor of display panels and, this being an Audi, a host of active safety and active driver aids are available.
These include a predictive efficiency assistant to help eke out fuel, an active lane keeping system, adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, plus sensors and systems for monitoring exits, assisting with parking, recognizing road signs, and taking evasive action in the event of a potential collision.
As for drivetrains, the A5 comes with front or Quattro all-wheel drive, a six-speed manual or seven-speed paddle-shift box and a choice of gasoline and diesel engines offering up between 187bhp and 282bhp.
But for those that want something racier, the S5 Coupé boasts a 350bhp 3-liter, twin-turbo V6, can hit 100km/h in 4.7 seconds and on to an electronically limited 250km/h.
Comments
About Author
