S5 Avant now available
The first vehicle to be launched on Audi’s premium platform combustion (PPC) is also the debut model of its new A5 range in New Zealand.
The S5 Avant is an important model for the marque in this county because its station wagons, such as the predecessor S4 Avant, have typically led the b-segment, says Greg Leet, Audi NZ’s general manager.
“Built on the new PPC platform, Audi has been able to redefine this popular wagon,” he adds. “We are confident this model will set a new standard in the premium b-segment, offering unparalleled performance and technology in the shape of Kiwis’ much-loved wagon.”
This three-litre V6 TFSI quattro model, which is priced from $147,990 excluding on-road costs, delivers a system output of 270kW and a top speed of 250kph.
The S5 Avant, which can make the 0-100 kph in 4.5 seconds, has a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry and mild hybrid electric-plus (MHEV-plus) technology for the first time.
The revised S tronic dual-clutch transmission, designed for more torque, reduces the weight on the front axle and improves agility.
Partial electrification via MHEV-plus leads to reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions via electrified driving components and high recuperation performance.
All-new design
The redesigned A5 family has modified proportions with a long wheelbase, large wheels and a low body.
With the Avant, the dynamic roofline merges into an integrated roof spoiler that spans the flat rear window. The d-pillars, which are steeply raked, emphasise its dynamic side view.
As an S model, this vehicle includes 20-inch Audi Sport five-twin-spoke black metallic, gloss-turned finished wheels, privacy glass, matrix LED headlights and digital OLED rear lights with dynamic indicators, and customisable daytime-running light signatures.
Like the recently launched all-new Q6 e-tron, the S5 Avant’s interior has a “digital stage” complete with premium soft fabrics extending across the cockpit to both front doors.
The curved, free-standing Audi MMI panoramic display with OLED technology takes centre stage alongside a standard MMI front-passenger display integrated into the dash.
The new S5 has a configurable head-up display that has been further developed compared to its predecessor. For the first time, drivers now have the option of controlling vehicle and infotainment functions via this display.
Optional upgrades include, but are not limited to, Audi’s new panoramic glass sunroof with switchable transparency, a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system with head restraint loudspeakers and a black exterior package.
Tech boosts efficiency
The new MHEV-plus system is based on a 48-volt on-board electrical system that supports the internal combustion engine (ICE) while a powertrain generator (PTG) enables partially electric driving that contributes to a reduction in fuel consumption.
MHEV-plus enables significant advantages in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption in the S5 Avant. These total up to 17g/km or 0.74l/100km on the WLTP driving cycle with the three-litre V6 TFSI.
The PTG can add up to 18kW of electric power to the ICE’s output. When decelerating, it feeds energy back into the battery at up to 25kW. As a result, purely electric manoeuvring and parking are possible to a limited extent.
Thanks to the option of using an electric compressor, the air-conditioning system can also be operated when the vehicle is stopped at traffic lights and the ICE is switched off.
With the integrated and blending-capable brake control system, the brake pedal and brake hydraulics can be decoupled.
In the S5 Avant, the MHEV-plus system achieves the necessary deceleration without using the friction brakes thanks to regenerative braking.
This means deceleration is initially achieved solely by recuperation. The friction brakes only kick in when pedal is pressed harder while brake feel remains unaffected by this.
