Audi is developing an all new model with a prototype which can be seen on these photos during high speed testing in heavy rain at Germany’s race track Nürburgring. Dubbed “A5” (code AU 474/475) the new Audi will be a sporty coupe-convertible adapting the design of Audi’s concept car Nuvolari.
The showcar was on display at the Geneva Motor Show in 2003. The prototype photos show that the new coupe will be considerably larger than the current A4, almost the size of today’s A6. With the A5 Audi intends to be a step ahead of the strong A4 competitors such as BMW 3-series Cabrio, Mercedes CLK and the VW-Convertible Eos. Due to the bigger size, Audi is indeed about to fill a gap on the sporty CC-market. Neither the BMW 5-series, Mercedes E Class model ranges nor any other car maker in this class and size has a luxury coupe-convertible to offer.
The new Audi A5 convertible is going to be equipped with a traditional canvas top, power is expected to come from two engines, a 3.0 litre TDI V 6 and 3.2 litre FSI V6 fuel delivering 255 HP. The new model is expected to be released by the end of 2007.