- The A5 Sportback facelift is also expected to pack in new powertrains and added features.
- Will surely come to India once it goes on sale next year.
Following the launch of the updated A4, Audi has now gotten busy with its sportier and stylish sibling – the A5 Sportback. The test mule spotted for the first time isn’t trying to hide much under the scanty camouflage. However, the A5 range is expected to get additional changes under the skin like revised powertrain and upgraded features list.
The front bumper appears to be tweaked with redesigned cascading grille, splitters, and air dams. Meanwhile, the headlight shape doesn’t seem to have changed but going by Audi’s habit of playing around with headlamps, we expect newer lighting signatures. But the important bit to notice is are adaptive cruise control sensors which might trickle down from its elder siblings – the A7 and A8. At the back, there aren’t any noticeable changes yet.
However, according to rumours, the biggest changes for the updated A5 will be under the skin. The 48-Volt mild hybrid system from the bigger models is expected to make its way to the A5. And apart from the standard engine options, Volkswagen’s newly developed 2.0-litre Evo TDI diesel engine might also be part of the update for the Sportback. This motor is available in two states of tune – 140bhp and 200bhp – and similar to the A4, both outputs will be a popular choice for the A5 Sportback as well. Meanwhile, the bigger 286bhp 3.0-litre TDI will soldier on without any changes.
When it breaks cover – which is likely to happen later this year – the same changes will also be seen on the A5 Convertible. Both the updated cars should make it to our shores next year as part of Audi’s model offensive for India.
