Audi has released images of its new 2017 A5 Sportback in anticipation of the vehicle’s first public appearance at the forthcoming Paris Motor Show in October.
The Sportback is closely related to the current model Audi A5 coupe, but as its name implies the new model boasts a sportier design with a stronger front end and a more spacious design overall.
Audi has loaded the Sportback with more technology than the A5 coupe it is based on. The special A5 comes with a high-res screen situated on top of the dashboard that will run the newest infotainment system that Audi has available. The company will also make in-car Wi-Fi an option for an extra cost.
Just like the coupe, the A5 Sportback comes equipped with a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder engine that is capable of 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This is channeled through a seven-speed, front-wheel drive automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is also available as an extra.
Audi will also add an S5 model with a bigger 3.0-liter V6 engine that packs 354 horses and 368 pound-feet of twist under its hood, which is powerful enough to go from zero-to-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. There is also an RS5 variant in the works from the German marque.
The Audi Sportback A5 is set to go on sale in Europe in early 2017, and even though last year’s Sportback didn’t land on sales floors in the American market, Audi has hinted that this year’s edition has been created with the United States in mind.