When Audi axed the A5 coupe and convertible models, it was important to remember that the moniker itself was not dead with the A5 Sportback continuing to live on. However, while the Sportback is a very popular offering with consumers, there are a few who prefer a traditional sedan. Audi has engineered a solution to this problem by not only axing the compact A4, but also making an all-new A5 sedan for 2025.
Is bigger better in the A5?
The Audi A5 sedan has big shoes to fill with the model taking the place of the compact A4 which is leaving the automotive market after 30 years in production. Part of its departure is Audi’s new strategy of going for odd-number monikers in its future models but it’s also because the A4 has not been doing so well in sales with the compact being overwhelmed by CUVs and SUVs in recent years.
While the A5 is attempting to introduce A4 buyers into a slightly bigger sedan segment, it will be doing so in a fresh package with Audi stylists giving the A5 four-door bolder styling that’s an expressive mixture of balanced lines and proportions. Performance for the base A5 will come from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 268 hp and is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with all-wheel drive coming standard too. Buyers looking for more performance will be happy with the S5 which replaces the S4 and is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that boosts power to 362 hp. All-wheel drive is also standard but the S5 gives it a Quattro sport differential with torque vectoring to sharpen its driving dynamics.
The A5 will also have a wagon-based Avant model but that version will be only available in Europe with the U.S. market only getting the four-door sedan body style.
An interior filled with tech
The revamped interior of the A5 takes full advantage of its size with Audi saying that the cabin now benefits from a human-centric design with a feature called “Digital Stage” taking much of the spotlight. This “stage” is made up of two MMI infotainment screens that provide content to both the driver and the front passenger. There’s no solid roof option on the A5 with some form of glass panel being standard. Higher trims get an electrochromic sunroof which can be adjusted in six segments to ensure optimal brightness.
The A5 also has an impressive arsenal of optional equipment including a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system and a heads-up display that actually allows drivers to control the infotainment system from it for the first time ever.
When can I buy one?
The 2025 Audi A5 sedan will arrive in the U.S. in the spring of 2025 with U.S. pricing for the model and other key details expected to be released later this year. The model will have a slightly earlier launch in Europe with a base model having a base price of $49,400 in Germany when conversion rates are applied.
The appearance of the A5 is also meant to assure customers that there will still be ICE options for them to choose from. Audi is eventually planning to introduce an all-electric lineup, but it along with other brands in the Volkswagen empire have been forced to slow down these plans due to shifting market conditions including reduced demand for EVs and a slowdown in growth across the broader segment.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.