As part of its electrification programme, German prestige car maker Audi has embarked on the next chapter in its successful history of mid-size cars. In addition to the existing models of the A5 Series family which we featured here on MHH International last Summer (see the article here), available in Saloon and Avant (estate car / station wagon) format, there’s now a new hybrid version.
This new model features a more striking design language, state-of-the-art combustion engine technology, and a new operating concept in the form of a new plug-in hybrid system for the A5 series to offer customers even more flexibility and efficiency. To make the new ‘Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle’ (PHEV) even more recognisable, Audi is introducing the technology designation ‘e-hybrid’ with immediate effect.
The New Hybrid System
This new generation of plug-in hybrid models offers a sporty and comfortable driving experience as well as a harmonious balance between performance and efficiency thanks to an increased electric range enabling drivers to cover the majority of daily journeys using only electric power. This hybrid technology combines the best of both worlds and provides a high degree of flexibility for everyday life, say the company.
The Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid quattro (all-wheel-drive) and the Audi A5 Saloon e-hybrid quattro are powered by a 2.0 litre TFSI engine with an output of 248 BHP (252PS / 185kW) and an electric motor that delivers up to 140BHP (142PS / 105kW). This all adds up to a combined real-world total power output is 295BHP (299PS / 220kW).
At the heart of the new A5 plug-in hybrid is the new high-voltage battery at the rear of the vehicle. Audi has boosted its capacity to 25.9 kWh (net 20.7 kWh), a gain of roughly forty five percent over previous hybrid models. Maximum AC charging power has been increased to 11 kW. This increase in power reduces the charging time from 0 to 100 percent to just 2.5 hours on a fast charger.
The Audi A5 e-hybrid can reach 62mph from a standstill in 5.9 seconds, and its 20.7kWh battery can provide up to 67 miles of electric-only running. In addition to plug-in charging it is also possible to top up the battery via brake regeneration, and you’ll be able to alter the intensity of this via paddles behind the steering wheel.
Regenerative Braking
Thanks to further advances in battery and hybrid technology, Audi has also significantly increased the regenerative braking performance and drivers can now adjust the degree of thrust recuperation in electric vehicle (EV) mode using paddles on the steering wheel. The new A5 e-hybrid runs on electric power for as long as possible to fully utilise the available battery charge to the driver’s destination. When this function is activated, the vehicle recovers energy automatically. This is based on route data stored in the navigation system. The new A5 e-hybrid quattro can also recover energy automatically without active route guidance.
The hybrid management of the new models is designed for efficiency, flexibility, and maximum customer comfort and automatically selects the optimal operating strategy. Two operating modes are available: ‘EV’ and ‘hybrid’. In EV mode, the PHEV models run exclusively on electric power. When driving in hybrid mode, the hybrid management system maintains a specific charge level as needed to save enough electrical energy for later use, for example for electric driving in the city. In addition to the automatic hybrid mode, the desired charge level can now be individually selected for the first time using a digital slider.
Extensive Standard Equipment
The looks and interior of this premium hybrid car are the same as the regular combustion vehicle we featured last July, so follow that link for details. Obviously this version contains the technology necessary for the driver to make the most of the hybrid technology. Like the entire A5 family, the PHEV models come with a high level of standard equipment. This includes progressive steering, navigation, the multi-media interface (MMI) panoramic display and an inductive phone charging pad.
Beyond that, the PHEV models come standard with three-zone automatic air conditioning, auxiliary air conditioning, and eighteen inch wheels. The Avant has a boot volume of 361 litres. Folding down the rear seats in the standard 40:20:40 ratio increases the volume to 1,306 litres. The boot capacity in the Saloon is 331 litres increasing to 1,175 litres with the rear bench dropped. The A5 is permitted to tow braked trailers up to 1,900kg and un-braked trailers up to 750kg.
The standard air conditioning system with electric refrigerant compressor not only works while driving in EV and hybrid mode but also runs electrically before setting off. If so desired, the auxiliary air conditioning will ensure a comfortable interior temperature even before you get in the car. It can be programmed directly in the vehicle or via the ‘myAudi’ app.
The optional comfort auxiliary air conditioning can be used to activate additional optional features such as seat heating. When unlocking the vehicle with the remote-control key, a ‘quick climate control’ function can also be started. This means that the interior can be quickly heated or cooled down even without the app. The standard three-zone automatic air conditioning automatically regulates the air temperature, volume, and distribution separately for the driver, front passenger, and rear row. The comfort auxiliary air conditioning can be set or activated in the MMI or conveniently, once again, via the ‘myAudi’ app.
The smartphone interface connects the device to the vehicle and displays smartphone content directly on the MMI touch display. The front sports seats provide even more comfort and better lateral support when cornering with their four-way electric lumbar support, manual adjustment of thigh support, integrated head restraints, and pronounced seat side bolsters. It’s an Audi so buyers can expect a high level of premium fit and finish, whatever the model.
MHH International & Audi
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