The Audi A5 lineup consolidation is less of an experiment and more of a need for the brand to make room for electric models, but it could get confusing.
Audi is merging the A4, A5, and S5 into a simpler lineup, cutting out the overlap that’s been confusing buyers for years. Fewer choices might sound refreshing, but what happens to the people who actually wanted those niche variants? We’ll look at why Audi thinks simplification will help sales, what gets lost when automakers trim their catalogs, and whether this “less is more” strategy actually makes sense or just limits options for enthusiasts who know exactly what they want.
Changing from an easy solution to something difficult
The present Audi lineup is simple for some to understand and more difficult for others. The A4/S4 names are used for sedans while the A5/S5 are for the coupes. The Audi model simplification brings an A4 and A5 merger together to create a change in product strategy and should help improve the Audi model offering. This change aids in model overlap reduction which seems to meet car buyer preferences right now, unless they want niche vehicle variants of more standard models.
The changes will now make the A4/S4 models represent electric vehicles, while the A5/S5 models will indicate the gas-powered vehicles. This change seems to be as clear as mud.
Sedan sales create an Audi A5 lineup consolidation
Even luxury car lineups are being impacted by the slowing demand for sedans. This means the A4 is out and the new A5 replaces it. The A5 is a hatchback, but most people prefer it to be called a Sportback. Instead of sticking with this name, which makes the most sense, the new A5 is being called a sedan. The latest A5 is being built on the last internal-combustion platform from Audi, called the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), making its debut with the A5 Sportback and S5 Sportback models. As has been the case for several years, the European market will receive a wagon version, which is called Avant in Audi terminology.
A bigger A5
Part of the Audi A5 lineup consolidation involved a larger car with a body that is 2.6 inches longer, 0.5 inches wider, and 0.6 inches taller than the previous model. The wheelbase has also been stretched by 3.1 inches, which increases the interior space, giving passengers more room and flexibility. The hatchback build of this sedan has an impressive rear cargo space that measures 26 cubic feet, giving you lots of room for all of your gear.
What does the Audi A5 lineup consolidation mean for America?
The Audi A5 lineup consolidation means the model offered in the United States will have a choice of two engines. The A5 has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 268 horsepower. While that doesn’t sound special, it is noteworthy to mention that it’s the first time an Audi has used a variable turbine turbocharger.
The new S5 has a much stronger engine, giving drivers a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 362 horsepower. Both engines have a dual-clutch automatic transmission and a mild-hybrid setup with a 24-horsepower electric motor to add a little more to the mix.
An expected Audi cabin continues
The dashboard area of the new A5 offers a large curved glass panel that Audi called the Digital Stage. This panel has two large screens and curves to give a cockpit-like feel. There’s an 11.9-inch gauge and information cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen next to it. This means you have all the information you need right in front of you while you drive this new Audi vehicle.
If you choose a screen for your passenger, they can have a 10.9-inch screen that allows them to control various functions and avoid distracting the driver. The display isn’t visible to the driver while the vehicle is moving. There’s also a head-up projection cast onto the windshield ahead of the driver.
What does the Audi A5 lineup consolidation mean for you?
In reality, this consolidation doesn’t mean very much more than your old A4 being named an A5. The niche market of coupe and cabriolet isn’t available any longer, but most drivers didn’t choose them anyway. This trimming of the gas-powered Audi models makes the lineup more understandable, especially as the new electric Audi models take over the even-numbered spots in the market.
Will you choose the new Audi A5 with its new look and feel? Will you miss the A4 that is gone from the market?
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