The New 2026 Audi A5 and S5 Sedans: A Fusion of Modern Sportiness and Cutting-Edge Technology [W/Video]

 

Audi has unveiled its latest lineup, the 2026 Audi A5 and S5 sedans, marking a significant evolution in the brand's mid-size segment offerings. This new generation of A5 models is set to redefine modern sportiness with premium proportions, advanced technology, and enhanced comfort.

Sporty Design with Premium Proportions

The 2026 Audi A5 sedans boast a dynamic and muscular exterior design, characterized by a long wheelbase, large wheels, and a low, sporty body. The Sedan version features a compact-looking greenhouse that stretches to the rear, creating a coupé-like appearance with a shallow rear window and a striking spoiler lip. The Avant variant, on the other hand, sports a dynamic, taut roofline that seamlessly integrates a roof spoiler spanning the flat rear window. The front of the new A5 is dominated by a wide, flatter Singleframe grille with a three-dimensional honeycomb structure, flanked by slim, precisely drawn headlights. These design elements, combined with the “soft nose” integrated into the bumper, give the vehicle a striking and focused expression reminiscent of the Audi Urquattro.

Advanced Lighting Technology

The new A5 family introduces digital daytime running lights with LED technology at the front and second-generation digital OLED rear lights. These lights, with around 60 segments per digital OLED panel, facilitate car-to-x communication, enhancing road safety. The dynamic lighting effects when unlocking and leaving the vehicle reflect the aesthetics of movement, part of Audi’s light DNA, and convey a new sense of liveliness.

Cutting-Edge Interior and Technology

Inside, the new A5 models offer a human-centric design, featuring the Audi MMI displays prominently in the Digital Stage. The slim, free-standing Audi MMI panoramic display, utilizing OLED technology, comprises an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. An optional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display seamlessly integrates into the dashboard, providing a cohesive digital experience. The configurable head-up display allows drivers to control vehicle and infotainment functions directly. The new MHEV plus system based on a 48-volt electrical system supports the combustion engine, reducing CO2 emissions and increasing performance. This system enables partially electric driving and contributes to significant fuel consumption reduction.

The cabin is designed for maximum comfort and connectivity, featuring Audi's latest MMI infotainment system with a user-friendly interface. The integration of natural voice control and haptic feedback on the touch surfaces ensures that drivers can interact with the system effortlessly. Furthermore, the Audi connect services offer a range of online functionalities, including real-time traffic information, weather updates, and points of interest.

Efficient Engines and Drivetrain Options

The efficient engines in the Audi A5 family cover a wide range: from the conventionally powered entry-level model to the comfortable long-distance runner and the dynamic sports car. The packages of engines, transmissions, the degree of electrification, and type of drivetrain are geared towards the expectations of our customers.

The entry-level engine is a 2.0 TFSI with 110 kW (150 PS) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (62.1 mi): 7.6-6.6 (30.9-35.6 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 173-150 (278.4-241.4 g/mi); CO2 class: F–E). Optionally, the same engine is available with an output of 150 kW (204 PS) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (62.1 mi): 7.9-6.6 (29.8-35.6 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 179-152 (288.1-244.6 g/mi); CO2 class: G–E). This TFSI engine is equipped with a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG) and works with a modified combustion process that is particularly fuel-efficient under partial load.

VTG technology enables a consistent and agile build-up of torque even at low engine speeds in gasoline engines. The turbo four-cylinder is available with a dual-clutch gearbox. The 110-kW variant is available as a purely front-wheel drive model and the 150-kW variant with front-wheel drive or quattro ultra.

The 2.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 PS) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (62.1 mi): 5.6-4.7 (42.0-50.0 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 147-124 (236.6-199.6 g/mi); CO2 class: E–D) sets new standards in the A5 thanks to its MHEV plus technology. This two-liter engine from the EA288 evo generation inherits the optimized combustion from its predecessor thanks to the cylinder pressure sensor, TwinDosing for exhaust emission control, and two balance shafts for smooth engine operation. It develops 400 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm. The 2.0 TDI is available with a dual-clutch gearbox and front-wheel drive or with quattro ultra. To increase efficiency and comfort, the engine is partially electrified using the new 48-volt MHEV plus system. The electrified drivetrain components reduce CO2 emissions thanks to high recuperation performance. In addition, the comfort of the TDI is further enhanced by a 48-volt starter generator for a smooth engine start. The reaction time when starting off is reduced and the car is noticeably more agile.

The S5, based on a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine with 270 kW (367 PS) (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (62.1 mi): 7.9-7.4 (29.8-31.8 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 180-167 (289.7-268.8 g/mi); CO2 class: G–F) and an optimized combustion process, is a dynamic sports car. It has a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG) and MHEV plus technology for the first time. The revised S tronic dual-clutch transmission in the Audi S5, designed for more torque, also reduces the weight on the front axle and improves agility. Partial electrification by means of the new 48-volt MHEV plus system leads to reduced CO2 emissions via electrified driving components and high recuperation performance. Compared to an S4 Sedan TDI (predecessor model), the S5 Sedan TFSI (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km (62.1 mi): 7.7-7.4 (30.5-31.8 US mpg); CO2 emissions combined in g/km: 175-167 (281.6-268.8 g/mi); CO2 class: F) reduces CO2 emissions by up to 14 g/km. Its fast, dynamic torque build-up underlines the sportiness of the S5. The standard use of a quattro sport differential with torque vectoring in combination with an adjustable all-wheel drive clutch is tuned for lateral dynamics at the highest level.

Enhanced Driving Dynamics

The new A5 sedans feature advanced hybrid technology with the MHEV plus system, offering substantial benefits in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. The powertrain generator (PTG) supports partially electric driving, allowing for reduced fuel consumption and efficient driving. The S5 variant is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine with 270 kW (367 PS), featuring a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG) and MHEV plus technology, delivering a fast, dynamic torque build-up and reduced CO2 emissions.

In addition to the hybrid powertrain, the A5 and S5 sedans come equipped with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring superior traction and handling in various driving conditions. The optional adaptive air suspension further enhances ride comfort by adjusting the damping force according to the driving situation. The inclusion of dynamic steering, which adjusts the steering ratio based on the vehicle's speed, ensures precise and responsive handling, making every drive an exhilarating experience.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems

Audi continues to prioritize safety with the 2026 A5 and S5 sedans, equipping them with an array of advanced driver assistance systems. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system that provides a comprehensive view of the vehicle's surroundings. The inclusion of predictive efficiency assist, which uses navigation data to optimize fuel consumption, highlights Audi's commitment to sustainability.

The new A5 also features an advanced parking assistance system, which can autonomously maneuver the vehicle into tight parking spots. The night vision assistant, available as an option, uses thermal imaging to detect pedestrians and large animals in low-light conditions, providing an additional layer of safety during nighttime driving.

Market Launch and Pricing

The Audi A5 and S5 sedans will be available for order in Germany starting July 2024, with a market launch in November 2024 across Germany and other European countries. The Audi A5 Sedan TFSI 110 kW will be offered at an entry price of EUR 45,200, including standard features like navigation, an electrically powered rear hatch, and a telephone tray with inductive charging.

The new Audi A5 and S5 sedans blend modern sportiness with premium proportions, showcasing advanced technology and design enhancements. With digital OLED lighting, a human-centric interior design, and efficient hybrid powertrains, the 2026 A5 models are set to elevate Audi’s mid-size segment offerings. Audi enthusiasts and potential buyers can look forward to a vehicle that not only meets but exceeds expectations in performance, comfort, and technological innovation.

The addition of Audi's matrix LED headlights, which provide adaptive lighting based on driving conditions, further underscores the brand's commitment to safety and innovation. These headlights can adjust the light distribution and intensity to ensure optimal visibility without dazzling other road users.

With a perfect blend of performance, luxury, and technology, the 2026 Audi A5 and S5 sedans are poised to set new standards in their segment, offering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined.