A Tale Of Two Audi A5 Sportbacks: Can You Spot The Differences Between Old And New?

Now that Audi has launched their all-new A5 & S5 Sportback, it’s time for us to take a look at how the new generation compares to its predecessor.

You might recall we’ve already done a visual comparison between the all-new A5 and the old one, however, as you well know, the Sportback version of the A5 isn’t just a slightly different-looking and more practical car than its Coupe or Cabrio siblings, it’s also a car that’s targeting a different customer base.

So what sets the all-new A5 & S5 Sportback apart from the older models? Well, plenty of things actually.

You’ve got the new (or new-ish) design language with the hexagonal grille, redesigned bumpers, completely new headlights, new bonnet, a new and more muscular rear and new taillights. In fact, you could argue that where the old A5 Sportback was perhaps more elegant than it was sporty, visually speaking, the new one is sort of the other way around – that is until you make your way to that new-generation cabin with the 12.3″ virtual cockpit display and the 8.3″ touchscreen (on high-end models).

The new A5/S5’s interior has grown in comparison to the old one. We’re talking 17 extra mm (0.6 in) in length with an 11 mm (0.4 in) shoulder room boost and 24 mm’s (1 in) worth of additional leg room. It may not be much, but cars such as the A5 can definitely use all the extra room they can get. Oh and the new MLB platform helps as well, especially with rear legroom thanks to the lengthened wheelbase.

While we can always debate visuals, performance figures hardly ever lie and the all-new A5 Sportback indeed packs the same array of power units as its Coupe sibling. Of course, the flagship S5 Sportback stands out because of its 354 PS turbocharged V6 engine, which also puts down 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque. In comparison, the previous S5 Sportback was only good for 333 PS and 440 Nm of torque.

Bottom line, you’ve got more room, a more modern design, the latest tech (such as the advanced Stop&Go adaptive cruise control system) and improved performance. A better car overall, then, but will it convince previous-gen owners to trade in their rides for the new one?