Since its global premiere in mid-2024, the all-new Audi A5 has been doing a fine job of succeeding the A4. It’s been out in Europe for quite some time already, and it’s finally made its debut in Southeast Asia.
That said, the A5 is unlikely to ever come to the Philippines. A shame, really, since we saw it in the metal at the Bangkok International Motor Show. Displayed in both Sportback and Avant (wagon) guises, we reckon it would be great additions to the local Audi lineup.
Over there, the A5 is offered in only one variant, but it’s a good one. It’s the TFSI e Quattro S Line. The name is a bit of a mouthful so we’ll simplify it for you. The A5 and A5 Avant in Thailand is a plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drive plus the sport package. As mentioned, it’s available in both liftback and wagon body styles.
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You might have noticed that the cars we photographed were in left-hand drive. Thailand is a right-hand drive country, so what gives? The cars displayed were representative units, but the spec is close to the one that will be sold there soon.
With that, the Thai-market A5 will get the upgraded Virtual Cockpit with a large wraparound curved display, along with a passenger side screen. We’ve tried it and, yes, it actually works. Other features of interest include a panoramic roof, a head-up display, and advanced driver assists.
Now for the bit you’re curious about, the powertrain. The TFSI e arrangement consists of a 2.0-liter turbo and a single electric motor mated to a 25.9kWh battery. The result is a combined output of 367hp and 500Nm, allowing it a 0 to 100kph time of about 4.5 seconds. Oh, and it has an electric range of 86km. Once that’s out, the car reverts to acting like a normal hybrid.
So, why are the odds of it coming to the country low? Let’s be honest, when was the last time you saw someone buy a brand new Audi sedan? As good as the previous A4s were, there are simply aren’t enough of us buying them. Sure, it peaked with the fourth generation model from 2008 to 2016, but it seems it’s not enough incentive for the local distributor to bring it here.
If we could sway opinion, we wish to, at the very least, see the Avant station wagon be offered here someday. Fingers crossed.
More photos of the 2025 Audi A5:
