The A5
family is next in line to receive its mid-life update. This prototype unit was
spotted in Europe with minimal camouflaging, covering just the front fascia,
wheel fenders, and rear sections of the car. Going by outward appearance
alone, the revised elements seem to be actual production items, except for the
carryover LED headlights. Expect those to be replaced by newer units with
revised graphics and slashed LED DRLs, much like that seen on the A4.
Speaking of similarities, the front bumper will get
roughly the same treatment as the A4. The Singleframe grille appears to be
shorter in height, although the chrome surrounds do seem thicker than the
outgoing model’s. The whole front bumper will be new, complete with projector
lenses for the fog lamps.
Round the side, the shoulder line remains intact and
stretches from the edge of the headlights before tapering subtly towards the
integrated spoiler. On the A4, the shoulder line is broken up between the
doors. At the back are updated LED tail lights with new graphics and sequential
turn indicators, new rear bumper, and large rectangular exhaust exits.
Unfortunately, there are no photos of the interior
this time around, but one can expect the updated A4’s cabin to be featured here
in its entirety. That includes the brand new Audi virtual cockpit, a 10.1-inch
centre display linked to Audi’s latest MMI system, as well as Qi wireless
charging tray for compatible smartphones and possibly a high-performance Bang
& Olufsen sound system.
Engine offerings should mirror the A4’s as well.
Models equipped with the 2.0 litre four-cylinder TFSI engine (available in 150
PS, 190 PS and 245 PS outputs) will feature a 12-volt MHEV system for the first
time, which employs a belt alternator starter and lithium-ion battery. It’s not
the full 48-volt system though, so features such as coasting phases,
recuperation output and the CO2 savings are reduced.
