Audi hybrid heading to NZ
Audi New Zealand has confirmed the new Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid will be arriving in its showrooms this year.
The Audi A5 range offers a pure combustion engine S5 Avant model, which was launched this year, and will also offer a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model for the first time.
The marque says its new generation of high-voltage batteries boasts around 45 per cent higher capacity than its predecessors and increased regenerative braking performance contributes to an electric range of up to 101km.
Greg Leet, Audi NZ general manager, says the addition of the model is an exciting extension of the company’s PHEV range.
“Just days after welcoming the all-new Audi S5 Avant to our shores we are excited to share we are extending our A5 offering to incorporate the highly anticipated PHEV to the line-up,” he explains.
“Not only is this a first for the Audi A5 family with its athletic design and completely new interior, it is also an Avant station wagon offering the practicality we know Kiwis will love.
“The Avant has always been a fan favourite here and now combined with hybrid technology, we think New Zealanders will respond well.”
The Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid, which features quattro ultra technology and S sport suspension, will be powered by a 2.0 TFSI engine with an output of 220kW and an electric motor that delivers up to 105kW.
It can accelerate from 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 250kph.
The new high-voltage battery at the rear of the vehicle has had its maximum AC charging power increased to 11kW, which reduces the charging time from 0-100 per cent to 2.5 hours.
Audi notes the model runs on electric power for as long as possible to utilise the available battery charge.
The hybrid management of the new model is designed for efficiency and flexibility and automatically selects the optimal operating strategy.
Two operating modes – EV and hybrid – are available. When driving in hybrid mode, the system maintains a specific charge level to save enough electrical energy for later use.
Standard equipment on the e-hybrid includes Matrix LED Headlights, privacy glass, progressive steering and a multi-media interface panoramic display.
The New Zealand launch of the model is planned for the third quarter of 2025 with a starting price of $117,990 plus on-road costs.
