Audi’s A5 range has been given a mid-life facelift, featuring an updated MMI system; prices start at $199,900 for the A5 Sportback

SINGAPORE

Audi has introduced the updated A5 range in Singapore, and the refreshed A5 models feature minor exterior tweaks and a revised MMI infotainment system as among its key changes.

All three body styles, the A5 Coupe, A5 Cabriolet and A5 Sportback were announced during a virtual launch event on Thursday night, and prices start at $199,900 inclusive of COE for the A5 Sportback. The A5 Coupe meanwhile retails at $203,870 with COE, and the A5 Cabriolet is the most expensive of the trio, going for $261,630 including COE.

Cosmetically, the A5 gets a flatter and wider honeycomb grille, and the small ventilation slits that sit between the grille and the bonnet line continue a design trend that’s seen on recent Audis like the new A1 and facelifted A4. LED headlights with dynamic turn indicators are standard, while Matrix LED lights can be ordered as options.

The biggest changes happen inside, with the A5 now featuring the updated MMI Touch system that first debuted on the higher-end Audis like the A8 and Q8. The key difference between it and the old system is the new 10.1-inch touchscreen that replaces the previous rotary controller. The software has also been updated, and the system is now compatible with the myAudi app, which allows the user to control and set personalised settings from his smartphone.

All three A5 variants are powered by 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engines, with the Coupe and Sportback’s powerplants developing 150hp and 270Nm of torque. The A5 Cabriolet meanwhile gets a more powerful unit, with its 2.0-litre engine producing 190hp and 320Nm of torque.

All of them also get mild hybrid systems, similar to the one found in the updated A4. The integrated 12-volt battery powers the belt alternator starter that is connected to the crankshaft. This allows for a smoother engine start-up, and allows the car to be able to coast with the engine switched off at speeds between 55 to 160km/h. The overall result is improved fuel consumption, by up to 0.3 litres per 100km, according to Audi.

Audi has been busy this year, with their new virtual showroom and slate of new models planned. Find out more here

The A5 marks the latest in a series of new models that Audi is planning to introduce in Singapore in 2020, and joining the recently updated A4 and the high-performance RS 4 Avant power wagon. Further launches planned ahead include more RS models such as the RS 6 Avant, RS 7 Sportback, and RS versions of the A5 line-up.

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