After the static presentation in Germany, Audi headed to the Douro region to, for the first time, allow the international press to test the German coupé. We were there too and these were our impressions.
About to complete 10 years after the launch of the first generation, the Inglostadt brand presented the second generation of the Audi A5. As you would expect, this new generation features new features across the board: new chassis, new engines, the latest infotainment technologies of the brand, driving support and, of course, a striking and eminently sporty design.
Speaking of design, this is undoubtedly one of the strengths of the German model. “Design is one of the big reasons why our customers buy Audi models”, confesses Josef Schlobmacher, responsible for the brand's Communication Department. In view of this, the brand bet on a more muscular appearance but at the same time elegant – all in the right proportions, where the coupé lines, the “V” shaped hood and the slimmer taillights stand out.
Inside we find a renovated cabin, in line with the new generation of Ingolstadt models. So, unsurprisingly, the instrument panel adopts a horizontal orientation, the Virtual Cockpit technology, consisting of a 12.3-inch screen with a new generation graphics processor and, of course, the usual build quality on models from Ingolstadt. In fact, at a technological level, as would be expected, the new Audi A5 Coupé does not leave its credits in the hands of others – see here.
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With this presentation done, it's time to jump into action and jump into the driver's seat. Awaiting us are the curves and counter-curves of the Douro and Beira coast region. With the weather on our side and a journey through breathtaking landscapes, what more could we ask for?
After a brief introduction with Graeme Lisle, head of Audi's Communication Department – who among other details about the car warned us of the possibility of encountering animals along the way… and I wasn't lying, we started the day with the entry-level version of the range. , the 2.0 TDI variant with 190 hp and 400 Nm of torque – which will be the most sought after model in the national market.
As expected, the winding paths of the Douro allowed to prove the dynamics and agility of the German model, thanks in large part to the new chassis and good weight distribution. With a very smooth ride, the Audi A5 Coupé responds adequately in the tightest corners.
As it is the least powerful engine in the range, the 2.0 TDI block allows for more moderate consumption – the 4.2 l/100 km announced will perhaps be too ambitious, but not far from the real values – and lower emissions. Still, the 190 hp of power, aided by a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox, seems to be more than enough. Whoever opts for the entry-level model will certainly not be underserved.
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After a short break, we returned to the wheel to test the 3.0 TDI engine with 286 hp and 620 Nm, the most powerful diesel. As the numbers suggest, the difference is noticeable: accelerations are even more vigorous and cornering behavior is more precise – here, the quattro system (standard) makes all the difference by not allowing any loss of traction.The day ended in the best way possible, with the spicy version of the German coupé: Audi S5 Coupé. In addition to changes on the exterior – four exhaust pipes, redesigned front – and on the interior – sports steering wheel, seats with the Audi S Line signature -, the German model results in an ambitious model designed for those who like to drive. Therefore, in this new generation, the brand bet on an increase in power (21 hp more for a total of 354 hp) and torque (60 Nm more, which makes 500 Nm), while reducing consumption by 5% - the brand announces 7.3 l/100km. The 3.0 liter TFSI engine ended up losing a total of 14 kg. In fact, Audi is playing a strong game here, not least because according to the Ingolstadt brand, one in every four models sold are sports versions – S5 or RS5. In dynamic terms, the Audi S5 Coupé carries all the qualities of the A5 Coupé, but with enough power to scare some sports from other championships…
From the very first contact, the acceleration capability is noticeable – from 0 to 100 km/h it takes just 4.7 seconds, 0.2 seconds less than the previous model, – making the differences clear to the TDI engine with the same displacement. All this power is best managed through an 8-speed tiptronic transmission, exclusive to the most powerful engines.
In the end, all versions of the new Audi A5 passed this first test with flying colors. Apart from the differences in terms of performance and consumption, the rigor with which it describes the curves, the build quality and the inspired design are common characteristics of the entire A5 range. Prices for the domestic market will be revealed closer to the launch date, scheduled for next November.