For more than 30 years, the Audi A4 went head-to-head with German rivals the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. But a new chapter begins: Audi has retired the A4 badge for combustion engines, reserving it exclusively for EVs as part of Ingolstadt’s bold renaming strategy. Odd-numbered models (A3, A5, A7) will keep petrol and diesel power, while even numbers (A4, A6, A8) transform into full electric offerings.
Now, the baton passes to the all-new Audi A5 a car designed to step out of its predecessor’s shadow and redefine what a premium sedan can be.
Key Features at a Glance
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Engines | 2.0 TFSI (146kW, 340Nm, FWD) 2.0 TFSI Quattro (200kW, 400Nm, AWD) |
| Performance | 0–100 km/h in 7.8 sec (146kW) 0–100 km/h in 6.1 sec (200kW) |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic automatic |
| Dimensions | Length: 4 829mm (longer than BMW 3 Series & Mercedes C-Class) |
| Exterior | LED headlights pro, flush door handles, 19-inch alloys, LED lightbar, twin tailpipes |
| Trim Options | S line standard Black Edition (+R43,800): black styling, 19-inch black wheels, red calipers, privacy glass |
| Interior Tech | Digital Stage with 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus + 14.5-inch touchscreen |
| Comfort | Leather/synthetic sports seats, soft-touch finishes, brushed aluminium trim |
| Standard Features | 3-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, navigation, wireless charging, park assist, electric tailgate |
| Optional Upgrades | 360-degree camera, front passenger screen, digital key, customisable head-up display, panoramic sunroof, B&O sound system |
Sedan, but Not Quite
At first glance, the A5 isn’t a traditional sedan. Its liftback tailgate, sloping roofline, and wide single-frame grille inspired by Audi Sport give it a sporty edge. Initially, Audi debated calling it the Sportback, but settling on “sedan” may prove a clever move positioning the A5 against its long-standing competitors while offering something a little different.
Dimensionally, it already outmuscles the competition: at 4 829mm long, the A5 is larger than both the BMW 3 Series (4 713mm) and Mercedes-Benz C-Class (4 751mm). With sharper looks and coupe-like proportions, this Audi is more than ready to stand out in the premium sedan space.
Why the Audi A5 Matters
In an SUV-dominated market, sedans are becoming rare but Audi is betting that the right mix of style, power, and technology can keep buyers interested. With the A5’s bold design, advanced cabin, and strong performance credentials, Ingolstadt has built a car that not only fills the A4’s shoes but looks set to expand Audi’s slice of the premium sedan market. The battle against the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class just got a lot more interesting.
Related article: BMW X3 Wins 2025 South African Car of the Year
