Audi is in the process of significantly restructuring its entire lineup, including the way it name its vehicles. Going forward, odd-numbered models will feature internal combustion engines, while even numbered models – with the exception of a handful of models like the A8 range – will become electric only. This means that the next-generation Audi A4 will go completely electric and ride on a completely different platform than the replacement for the current, internal combustion-powered Audi A4 – the 2025 Audi A5, which MOTROLIX spies recently caught undergoing testing in the Arctic Circle.
As you can see in the photos, the 2025 Audi A5 will feature a very different kind of aesthetic than the A4. The A4’s traditional three-box sedan form will be replaced by a more curved roofline. Though we know the term is a misnomer, the shape of this prototype screams “four-door coupe.”   spacious tailgate reminiscent of the current A5 Sportback.
Beyond that, the camouflage obfuscates key exterior design details, though we can certainly see a large front upper grille along with a smaller lower one. The final product will be available in several patterns, depending on appearance equipment package and model. The headlights represent an evolution of the peepers on the current A4 and A5 ranges, and we see no fog lights on this particular prototype.
The rakish shape results in a short rear deck lid. In fact, judging by the lack of cut lines around the deck lid, it would seem that the trunk will be accessed via a large hatch that integrates the deck lid as well as the rear glass. If so, this configuration would be quite similar to the current-generation Audi A5 Sportback. The tail lights will feature an LED light stripe spanning the entire width of the rear end, followed immediately by the license plate cutout. We can also see a dual-tip exhaust on the driver’s side of the vehicle. For S and RS models, this configuration will be joined by a like outlet on the passenger side of the vehicle.
The 2025 Audi A5 range will be offered in two body styles globally – this swoopy sedan and a five-door wagon, with the sedan replacing two existing models – the A4 Sedan as well as the A5 Sportback. Note that the wagon variant – the 2025 Audi A5 Avant – will be limited to select markets (not coming to North America).
Under the hood, the next-gen A5 will be offered with two engine options. First up will be the 2.0L TFSI gasoline engine, which will be rated from 150 to 265 horsepower. Second will be the 2.0L TDI turbo-diesel engine, which will be rated from 136 to 204 horsepower. Note that much like the 2025 Audi A5 Avant, the diesel engine will not be offered in all markets (such as North America). Both engines will be mated to Audi’s S tronic automatic dual-clutch transmission, as well as the more capable version of Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive systems.
Given the push toward electrification, Audi will also offer the 2025 A5 range with with two hybrid powertrains. The flagship will be the plug-in hybrid, which mates the 2.0L TFSI with an electric motor within the dual-clutch gearbox. The setup is expected to deliver an electric driving range of around 60 miles. There will also be a non-plug-in hybrid powertrain on offer, which incorporates a starter-generator, thereby categorizing these models as mild hybrids. More potent powerplant options will be offered higher in the range for the likes of the S5 and RS5.
The 2025 Audi A5 cockpit will draw inspiration from the 2024 Q8 e-tron, shown here
Expect the cabin to receive a complete overhaul inspired heavily by the battery electric Q6 e-tron. A touch screen with compact digital instruments will be the focal point of the cockpit, while other tech features like a head-up display (HUD) and intelligent voice control with artificial intelligence will learn individual preferences to optimize each drive while minimizing distractions.
Architecturally, the next-gen Audi A5 will ride on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) designed specifically for vehicles with longitudinally mounted combustion engines. Essentially an evolution of the VW Group’s Audi-developed Modular Longitudinal Platform, MLB and LMB evo, PPC will also underpin the next-gen Audi A7 range, which will replace the internal combustion-powered A6 and A7 ranges, along with the Porsche Cayenne, and Volkswagen Touareg.
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