OHLALA SPENT TIME WITH THE NEW AUDI A5 40 S LINE SEDAN, A BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED CAR INSIDE AND OUT WITH FIRSTCLASS TECH AND FEATURES.
2025 marks a new chapter in Audi’s prosperous history. After 30 years of successful A4 production and sales, this world-renowned brand has sharpened the design of its much-loved saloon and is now launching it under the upgraded A5 series.
This month, OHLALA had the privilege of test-driving this fresh-faced formation, compliments of the team at Audi Centre Bahrain.
DYNAMIC DESIGN
We have always loved the A4; however, the moment the completely redesigned A5 came into view, we applauded the upgrade.
Firstly, the vehicle proportions have been clearly modified, with a longer wheelbase, large wheels and a low sporty body that defines firstclass construction. The compact-looking greenhouse has been elegantly crafted, flowing seamlessly to the rear in a sweeping arc. The rear window has a coupé-esque look, emphasised by the short yet stylish tailgate. An eye-catching spoiler lip adds an extra touch of athleticism.
Staring at the saloon head-on, we could not miss the wide and significantly flatter proportioned Singleframe with its three-dimensional honeycomb structure. Complementing this flattering design element are the slim and visually appealing LED headlights that can be personalised with eight different designs, providing additional shape to the face of the A5. We also loved how the bonnet has been expertly integrated into the bumper.
Once at the back end, we took in the new rear hatch, which opened smoothly with the rear window, allowing easy access to the sizable 445-litre luggage compartment, a space that can be increased up to 1,299 litres with the rear seating folded flat – a brand-new saloon design concept for Audi.
The rear, three-dimensionally offset LED light strip endows the back end with real presence, telling everyone on the roads, “You’ve just been passed by the new A5”. A modern bumper design, complete with a dark diffuser and high-end rectangular exhaust tips, further amplifies the top-quality character of this creation.
NEXT LEVEL INTERIOR
We expected a classy and comfortable cabin in the new A5, yet we were still surprised by the human-centric design.
Boasting a generous sense of space, premium comfort levels and highend materials throughout, the A5 ticks all the first-class boxes one would expect from Audi. What impressed us most was the clear layout and easy operation of the interior, as everything seemed to be geared towards the needs of the occupants.
“Boasting a generous sense of space, premium comfort levels and high-end materials throughout, the A5 ticks all of the first-class boxes one would expect from Audi.”
Tech-wise, this sporty saloon houses a new operating concept that increased interaction with the vehicle thanks to the E³ (End-to-End Electronic Architecture). Its core elements are five high-performance computers, which Audi calls High Computing Performance (HCP). They cover all vehicle functions – from the drivetrain and assistance systems to the infotainment and comfort systems to the safety systems and back-end networking.
We found the Digital Stage to be extraordinary. It features a slim, free-standing Audi MMI panoramic display with a curved design and OLED technology. It comprises the Audi virtual cockpit with an 11.9-inch visible screen diagonal and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. Furthermore, our test drive model contained the optional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display, which was perfectly integrated into the dashboard design.
The new panoramic glass roof consists of six segments that can be made either transparent or non-transparent. You can decide yourself via the MMI touch display at which point the sun can enter.
Having inspected so many vehicles over the years, we always love discovering something new. Audi delivered on this. The A5 has a configurable head-up display that has been further developed compared to its predecessor. It was the first time we have been able to control vehicle and infotainment functions via the head-up display. A truly novel experience for us seasoned test drivers.
CAPABLE ENGINE CAPACITY
Audi has delivered a fresh powertrain for the new A5. This construction consists of the new MHEV plus system based on a 48-volt on-board electrical system. It supports a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder combustion engine that produces a maximum output of 150hp and a maximum torque of 280Nm.
The moment we engaged the ignition, the sound of the capable powertrain roared into action. Gently applying weight to the accelerator, we could feel the available capacity waiting to be called forth.
Cruising casually in this front-wheel drive, we could feel the cornering and braking abilities of the new A5 to be top-notch. Combined with the suspension system, this setup was an exceptionally comfortable ride. Audi has clearly developed the suspension to ensure the A5 offers precise, effortless and largely neutral handling.
Once at our test site, we pressed the pedal to the metal, pushing the 2.0-litre engine to its limits. We managed to smoothly power the new A5 from 0 – 100km/h in a respectable 9.8 seconds. This seductive saloon also offers a top speed of 214km/h.
Another aspect of this powertrain that impressed us was the PTG, which can add up to 18kW of electric power to the overall output of the combustion engine. When decelerating, the PTG feeds energy back into the battery (recuperation) at up to 25kW.
Needless to say, Audi has included an array of safety and driver assistance systems to ensure the well-being of you and your loved ones whilst out on the roads.
OUR VERDICT
In the new A5, Audi has provided high levels of comfort, performance, safety and technology that are sure to stand out in the upper mid-sized saloon segment.
For more information, please call Audi Centre Bahrain on
1745 9933.
@audibahrain