Testing of the next-generation A5 coupé gathers pace as Audi readies its BMW 4 Series rival
Audi’s new A5 and S5 have again been spotted testing at the Nürburgring track in Germany, with latest spy pictures showing the new models will get the same all-digital instrument cluster as the A4, TT and Q7.
Despite being wrapped in heavy camouflage, these spy pictures show the next-generation A5 coupe will adopt new front and rear styling, possibly incorporating design cues from this year’s all-new Audi A4 saloon.
It has a more aggressive front grille and bumper, with sweeping headlights and sportier air intakes. An integrated spoiler is apparent at the rear, while it sits wider and lower to the road. The S5 coupe features quad exhaust tailpipes, compared with the A5’s twin pipes.
The interior can be seen for the first time and is very similar to the recently launched A4.
Codenamed B9, the new Audi A5 coupé will sit on VE Group’s latest MLB platform, constructed of aluminium and steel.
The platform – which also underpins the new Q7 and A4 – is lighter, more adaptable and allows for greater interior space than the outgoing A5’s. As a result, the 2017 A5 coupé should weigh approximately 100kg less than its predecessor.
Engine options are likely to mirror those of the upcoming new A4, including an all-new 187bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol unit, which Audi claims will average 56.5mpg on a combined cycle.
Turbodiesel engines in 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre form will be offered, while petrol-electric and diesel-electric plug-in hybrids could also be in the pipeline, in keeping with the new A4 line-up.
Specific power outputs are yet to be confirmed for the next generation S5 coupé, but expect an increase on the current S5’s 328bhp from its 3.0-litre supercharged V6 motor.
We expect both the A5 and S5 to go on sale in 2017.
Additional reporting by Matthew Griffiths
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