Audi is launching a new A5 coupe at the Geneva Motor Show, throwing the gauntlet at two competitors in the segment dominated by the two-door BMW 3-Series and Mercedes CLK.

Together with a special S5 sports version the A5 will be available for delivery to dealers in Germany from June this year, according to the car maker which has so far not released prices.

Built on the platform of the next generation of the A4 the two- door coupe comes with powerful FSI and TDI engines in a range of 125 to 195 kW/170 to 265 hp.

With a length of 4.63 m, the A5 comes with four seats and a load volume of 455 litres, making this car a comfortable long-distance tourer.

Power is transmitted either by front-wheel drive or quattro four- wheel drive and a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

With its combination of an expressive front single-frame grille and distinctive rear, the head of Volkswagen Group Design, Walter de'Silva claims the A5 as "the most beautiful car I have ever designed."

Right-angled headlights and large air inlets reinforce the impression of breadth in the outline. The rear's distinct horizontal lines and powerfully styled tail lights underscore the sporty image.

The cockpit is characterized by the ergonomic design and use of exclusive materials. The door panel trim, controls, inlays, armrest and stowage compartment combine to form a harmonious unit.

The screen of the MMI operating system is positioned at an ergonomically perfect high position in the cockpit. The key dispenses with the conventional key bit, communicating electronically with the vehicle's electrical system as soon as it is inserted.

It can also store important information, such as the vehicle's current mileage or warning messages from the Audi A5's driver information system.

According to Audi, a raft of technical innovations has significantly improved performance and fuel economy for both the diesel and petrol engines.

The top-of-the-range TDI with a revised 3.0-litre motor delivers a power output of 176 kW/240 hp and a maximum torque of 500 Nm. Average fuel consumption is listed at 7.2 litres per 100 km.

As in other Audi models, the quattro permanent four-wheel drive distributes 40 per cent of engine power to the front axle and 60 per cent to the rear axle at its basic setting. The system adjusts the power distribution depending on the situation and road surface grip.

Among the options offered are an extra-large panoramic tilting roof, curvature lighting with xenon headlights, daytime lighting with LED technology and a keyless entry and start system.

read full blog