Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in South Africa
Audi's latest offering, the A5 Sedan, is set to redefine the brand's presence in the compact executive car segment when it arrives in South Africa in May 2025. Replacing the A4 in the lineup, the A5 Sedan embodies a new design language and a host of technological advancements, signifying a bold step forward for the German automaker.
Built on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, the A5 boasts a Sportback-inspired silhouette, offering a sleeker and more dynamic look compared to its predecessor. This translates to a slightly larger car with increased interior space and a generous 445-litre boot capacity.
Under the hood, South African buyers will have a choice of three engines:
• A5 2.0 TFSI (110 kW): This 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol engine delivers 110 kW and 280 Nm of torque to the front wheels.
• A5 2.0 TFSI (150 kW): A more powerful version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbopetrol, this engine produces 150 kW and 340 Nm of torque. It will be available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
• A5 2.0 TDI (150 kW): For diesel enthusiasts, Audi offers a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that generates 150 kW and a substantial 400 Nm of torque. This engine will also be available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
The performance-oriented S5 also makes a comeback, boasting a 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol engine that generates an impressive 270 kW and 550 Nm of torque. With quattro all-wheel drive and a new dual-clutch transmission, the S5 accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in a claimed 4.5 seconds.
Inside, the A5 showcases Audi's commitment to cutting-edge technology. A 14.5-inch infotainment screen powered by Android Automotive software dominates the dashboard, offering intuitive controls, a digital assistant, and even integrated ChatGPT functionality. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster receives updated graphics, while a head-up display provides essential information with exceptional clarity. Passengers can also enjoy an optional 10.9-inch screen.
Audi's renowned Matrix LED headlights take centre stage with advanced features. These headlights not only offer impressive illumination but can also display eight distinct signatures and project messages to other road users, enhancing safety and communication on the road.
Efficiency is also a key focus, with the A5 featuring mild-hybrid technology. This system provides an additional 18 kW and 230 Nm of torque, enabling the car to operate at low speeds on electric power alone, contributing to improved fuel economy and a smoother driving experience.
While the Avant (station wagon) version will not be available in South Africa, the A5 Sedan range, including the powerful S5, is poised to capture the attention of discerning buyers. With its combination of striking design, advanced technology, and impressive performance, the A5 heralds a new era for Audi in the South African market.
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the 2025 Audi A3 Arrives with Upgraded Tech and a Refined Interi.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi A5 cost in South Africa?
Audi hasn't released official pricing for the A5 sedan yet, but expect the entry-level 2.0 TFSI (110 kW) to start around R650,000 when it launches in May 2025, with the range-topping S5 likely pushing close to R1.2 million.
Q: Is the Audi A5 better than the BMW 3 Series?
The A5 brings fresher tech with its 14.5-inch Android Automotive screen and ChatGPT integration, plus it's built on Audi's latest PPC platform, making it more modern than the current 3 Series, though BMW's driving dynamics still set the benchmark.
Q: Which Audi A5 engine should I choose?
The 2.0 TFSI (150 kW) hits the sweet spot with 340 Nm of torque and available quattro all-wheel drive, while the 2.0 TDI (150 kW) offers superior fuel economy and 400 Nm of torque for long-distance cruising.
Q: Why did Audi replace the A4 with the A5?
Audi moved to odd numbers for combustion engines and even numbers for electric vehicles as part of their naming strategy, so the A5 is essentially the next-generation A4 with a sportier Sportback-inspired design.
Q: When can I buy the Audi A5 in South Africa?
The Audi A5 sedan arrives in South African showrooms in May 2025, with all three engine variants and the S5 performance model available from launch.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, if you're shopping for a premium sedan under R700,000, the Audi A5 looks like a winner. The 2.0 TFSI (150 kW) with quattro will likely be the pick of the range, offering proper all-weather grip, decent performance, and Audi's latest tech including that massive 14.5-inch screen with ChatGPT. The increased interior space and 445-litre boot make it more practical than the old A4, while the Sportback-inspired styling gives it serious kerb appeal. However, if you need your car before May 2025, the BMW 320i at around R650,000 remains the safe choice, and Mercedes-Benz's C200 offers similar luxury credentials. The A5 represents Audi's fresh thinking in the compact executive space, and early adopters will get the newest tech and design language before the German rivals catch up.
