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Audi has marked its 100th birthday with the launch of the A5 Sportback. The 2.0 TDI manual version features start-stop and energy recuperation technology.
At launch in the UK, four direct injection engines will power the car – the petrol 2.0-litre TFSI with 211PS and the 3.2-litre V6 FSI with 265PS, and from the diesel range the 2.0-litre TDI with 170PS and 3.0-litre V6 TDI with 240PS.
Initially, 2.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI engines will be mated to the S tronic twin-clutch transmission and the quattro all-wheel-drive system. A six-speed manual gearbox will be reserved for the front-wheel-driven 2.0 TDI to enable the most economy-focused model in the first launch phase to benefit from the latest start-stop and energy recuperation technology.
Audis have generally been nose-heavy for many years, however the company has reduced the overhangs of the Sportback and optimised weight distribution, by using the latest generation chassis which repositions the front axle ahead of the clutch.
The new optional sport differential technology, available initially for 3.2 FSI quattro and 3.0 TDI quattro versions, enables the quattro system to not only transfer torque between the front and rear axles to counter traction losses, but also between the rear wheels to reduce steering effort and literally push the car through a corner.
The cabin can be equipped to SE or S line specification, with a third Standard trim level reserved for four-cylinder models.
Available to order now priced from £25,440, the new ten model range will reach the UK in October.
