Audi A5: Pure adrenaline rush
The new coupé adopted many elements from the A5 and the A5 Sport, but according to Walter de’Silva, Head of Volkswagen Group Design, this is the most beautiful car he has ever designed.
Although all details pertaining to the design of the A5 has been developed as a new design, some features are still tipical Audi. The long smooth look of the car combined with the fine interior makes the A5 very luxurious and very comfortable. The cockpit area makes it easy for the driver to refer to the rev counter, speedometer and all other controls.
Engines are available in FSI and TDI with rated power ranging from 125 to 195kW. The latest version of the MMI operating logic is standard and the new key makes electronical communication with the vehicle’s electrical system possible. It can also store information such as mileage or warning messages and is always up to date.
The 3.2-litre FSI petrol engine is said to be very popular in Europe and boasts a system that varies the valve lift between two levels, resulting in a more powerful, more economical engine with improved drivability. The valve lift system will most probably be one of the selected engines to be launched in South Africa. Fuel consumption is around 8.7 litres per 100km and can reach 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
Later in 2007 Europe will be introduced to the four cylinder unit, namely the 1.8 TFSI. This engine combines turbocharger technology with petrol direct injection. The TDI comes with a 3.0-litre engine, delivering a power output of 176kW. This powerful diesel engine can reach 100km/h in 5.9 seconds and can reach 250km/h. More economical as the FSI, with a recorded fuel consumption of 7.2 litres per 100km. The 2.7-litre V6 diesel offers a top speed of 232km/h and fuel consumption is an average of 6.7 litres per 100km. The V6 is also equipped with front-wheel drive.
How ever many features inherited from its ancestors, the A5 has a completely new design of running gear, where the front wheels are located by a five-link suspension arrangement with upper and lower wishbones. High rigidity is achieved and comfortability and stability is improved. To optimise axle load distribution, the front axle is located a long way forward and the differential is located in front of the clutch.
The luxuries of the A5 are endless, ranging from 17-inch alloy wheels to the new comfort key and electromechanical parking brake. It also includes an extra large panoramic tilting roof and the optional navigation system with DVD, MMI, DAB and DVB TV.
The six speed manual gearbox provides variable torque distribution from its basic setting of 60 percent to the rear and 40 percent to the front axle. The S5’s has high performance brakes and an ESP electronic stabilisation program. The Audi S model is sporty and the interior includes sports seats, aluminium door sill plates and a sports steering wheel.
So if you’re an adrenaline junkie, forget about bungee jumping and diving with sharks, the new Audi A5 and S5 will provide you with all the adrenaline rushes you can handle.
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