Audi has announced mid-life facelifts for it A5 line-up, which will be available in the UK from September. Cosmetic and technological tweaks will be applied to all models in the range, which consists of coupé, cabriolet and Sportback bodystyles.
Perhaps the most notable change is the elimination of the naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 engine previously used in the S5 coupé, replaced by the 328bhp 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 from the cabriolet and Sportback. Audi claims this shaves 0.2 seconds off the 0-60mph sprint, hitting the magic number in 4.9 seconds despite a 21bhp loss over the V8. Economy is up to 34.9mpg from 26.4mpg. Other engine changes include a completely redesigned 1.8-litre TFSI, a revamped 2.0-litre TFSI and a 268bhp version of the turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 - which replaces the outgoing naturally aspirated 3.2-litre V6. For those who prefer their A5 to drink from the black pump, there is a reworked 175bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel, as well as a 3.0-litre TDI which is now available in 201bhp guise (replacing the 2.7-litre TDI) alongside the existing 242bhp unit. Audi says the 2.0TDI can achieve over 60mpg.
The increased efficiency of the models is in part due to a new electromechanical power steering unit, as well as start-stop technology being made standard across the range. Other changes under the skin include the availability of an improved Quattro system, which combines the centre-differential from the RS5 with torque-vectoring. This should ensure faster progress during enthusiastic driving, as the system redistributes the engine’s power to the wheels with the most traction rather than temporarily withdrawing it. Revisions have also been made to the suspension and damper settings.
Visual changes include new light clusters front and rear to bring the A5 in line with new models such as the A6 and A8. Front-end styling is sharper thanks to a redesigned front bumper with larger intakes and a revised grille, as well as ‘wave’ style LED daytime running lights currently being applied across the range. Inside, the changes are more subtle, with redesigned steering wheels and switchgear being the order of the day. Controls for the MMI system have been made simpler, and the system now includes Google Maps navigation and Wi-Fi support for mobile devices.
Deliveries start in December, with prices starting at £25,540 for the Sportback.
Text: Joe Breeze
Photos: Audi
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