What is it?

It used to be one of the most recognisable names in Audi’s line-up, but the A4 is no more and instead has moved up to the A5. But, before you ask, it isn’t now a two-door coupe or convertible. No, the A5 essentially is the new A4 saloon just with a change in naming strategy.

But, unlike its old counterpart, the A5 is now a five-door hatchback – just like the old A5 Sportback. So, it seems that Audi has gone back to their confusing naming strategy, but does this new A5 impress or is it just filling another gap in an overcrowded market? We’ve been finding out.

What’s new?

Over the last few years, Audi has introduced a plethora of different mid-sized EVs to keep up with the times and to focus on its decarbonisation strategy. These vehicles are called ‘e-tron’ and although that might sound simple, the rest of the Audi range over the years has far been from that.

So, now the firm has decided to simplify its model line-up. The A4 was one of the first ‘A’ badged Audi’s when it was launched in 1994 to replace the ageing 80 saloon and followed a naming strategy of its cars being in size order regarding the number used.

However, now things have changed and the ‘A’ will represent the brand’s internal-combustion models and the electrified variants. But, take note, that all odd numbers will be cars with a piston engine and the even numbers will be battery-powered.

What’s under the bonnet?

The new A5 will be available with a range of conventional engines and to kick off the range, there will be a 2.0-litre petrol that comes in two power guises – either 148bhp or 201bhp. There is also a 2.0-litre diesel with 201bhp, too. But, the oil burner also comes with the added benefit of being available with either front-wheel-drive or Audi’s famous Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Meanwhile, all cars come fitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

All engines are efficient and that’s thanks to the fitment of mild-hybrid 48V technology which enables the car to coast at slow speeds on electric power. Furthermore, there is a performance-focused S5 that comes bolted to a 3.0-litre V6 engine, to add further choice to the range.

What’s it like to drive?

The new A5 sits on a completely different platform compared to the outgoing A4. The Premium Platform Combustion or ‘PPC’ for short, focuses on driver engagement and efficiency to match the new mild-hybrid engines. Thankfully, unlike the old A4 which wasn’t exactly scintillating – this new A5 does feel a lot more driver-focused.

The steering feel is good, even though it is light – and has good feedback. It also goes around corners rather well and feels a lot more composed and engaging than the old model. The 2.0-litre 148bhp petrol is livelier and more fun than the diesel, but the oil burner is faster and a lot more refined.

Around town, the mild-hybrid engine does a good job of balancing its electrified assistance and petrol engine, making everything effortless and efficient. Overall, this new A5 has the perfect blend of driver enjoyment, while being comfortable and refined, however, the BMW 3 Series still feels a class above when it comes to putting a smile on your face.

How does it look?

Audi’s design language never seems to evolve and instead matures slowly and gracefully, and this new A5 follows suit more so than its electric SUV stablemates. The firm’s grille is bigger and is more stretched than before and there are slimmer LED headlights at the front – which also come as standard.

The new A5 looks more like the old Sportback with its sloping roofline and the rear arches have a similar look to the flagship e-tron GT EV. At the back, there is a light bar that runs the entire width of the boot lid. But, in S Line trim, the car looks even better with its larger alloy wheels and its new design looks a lot cleaner than the old A4.

What’s it like inside?

Inside, the interior design is almost identical to the larger Q6 e-tron electric SUV with a curved dashboard and it feels a lot more modern than the old car.

There are two screens as standard, while a third screen that is located in front of the passenger can be added at an extra cost. However, Audi has done away with a lot of physical buttons and instead, everything is buried in the infotainment screens. Thankfully, the system is easy to use on the move and there are voice commands that utilise ChatGPT.

The driving position is good and it’s easy to get comfortable – while space is more than adequate. However rear headroom is limited due to the low roofline, and it’s only a bit better on the Avant. Meanwhile, boot space is average for both hatchback and estate variants.

What’s the spec like?

Unlike its naming strategy, Audi’s trim levels are fairly straightforward to comprehend and the new A5 follows suit in Sport, S Line and Edition One.

The Sports starts at £41,950 and there is a £1,900 premium for the family wagon version. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, front and rear LED lights, three-zone climate control, a 14.5-inch touchscreen, an 11.9-inch digital driver’s display, adaptive cruise control, wireless phone charging and a 360-degree parking camera.

Move up to the S Line at £44,100, and it boasts sportier exterior enhancements, 20mm lowered sports suspension and sports seats. The flagship Edition 1 model is your’s from £49,100 and includes larger 20-inch alloy wheels, matrix LED headlights and a 10.9-inch touchscreen in front of the passenger.

Verdict

This change in name strategy for Audi won’t be a bad move for the A5 as it still represents everything the old A4 did well.

The new car has a lot of things going for it in the fact that it drives well, has efficient engines and it carries a desirable image. It may not be as dynamic as a BMW 3 Series but the new A5 still has a lot to offer and it certainly will go down well in the company car park.