BRAD ANDERSON wrote:The veils has been lifted off the brand new 2017 Audi A5 Sportback and S5 Sportback ahead of the model's launch at the Paris Auto Show next month.
The styling of the new A5 Sportback range closely mimics that of the Coupe, updated and revealed just a few months ago. As such, the front end of the car is dominated by the German marque's trademark hexagonal grille and complemented with a redesigned bumper incorporating a different lower lip and fog light clusters.
Compared to the outgoing model, the headlights have also been thoroughly revised and now incorporate a slight curve on the upper edge. Other styling changes over the current model include a reshaped hood with prominent creases, tweaked styling down the vehicle's sides as well as a refreshed rear end with different taillights.
Underpinning the new A5 Sportback range is the same MLB platform as the Coupe. However, the wheelbase has been lengthened from 2,764 mm to 2,824 mm, increasing legroom at the back.
In terms of powertrains, the 2017 A5 Sportback family is available with the same array of engines as the coupe. The entry-level model, dubbed the g-tron, is therefore powered by a 2.0-liter TFSI engine delivering 167 hp and 270 Nm of torque. It is then joined by two additional variants with the same engine, with 187 hp/320 Nm and 248 hp/370 Nm of torque respectively. The final petrol-powered model comes in the form of the 2017 S5 Sportback. Its 3.0-liter TFSI engine pumps out 348 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
As for the diesels, there are four models on offer. Both the 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI ultra have 187 hp and 400 Nm of torque on tap while the base 3.0-liter TDI is driven by 214hp and 400 Nm. Finally is a more powerful 3.0-liter TDI with 281 hp and a monstrous 620 Nm of torque.
Front and all-wheel drive models are available, depending on the selected engine, and can be mated to either a six-speed manual, seven-speed dual clutch or an eight-speed auto.
Inside, the same array of features welcomed by the new A5 Coupe range are found within the Sportback. That means entry-level models have a 7.0-inch infotainment system while high-end models utilize an 8.3-inch screen and the company's 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display. A 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system is available as an option.
All up, the interior of the new model has grown by 17 mm in length while shoulder room is up by 11 mm and there is now 24 mm of additional leg room at the rear. Additionally, luggage capacity sits at 480 liters which Audi claims is the best in its class.
One particularly interesting addition to the new A5 Sportback is an advanced Stop&Go adaptive cruise control system. In slow-moving traffic at up to 65 km/h (40 mph), the car can brake and accelerate by itself and on good roads, even take control of the steering.
German pricing for the new A5 Sportback starts at 37,800 euros ($42,500) and 62,500 euros ($70,285).
