Roman Mica from TFL recently spotted three Audi prototypes testing under camouflage in Colorado. These test vehicles preview cars that aren’t available at the moment. Specifically, we’re looking at the 2025 Audi S5 Avant, a new performance wagon with a turbo V6 engine.
Two things get American car enthusiasts very excited, manual gearboxes and wagons. Audi doesn’t offer the stick so the 2020 Audi RS6 Avant marked the return of performance wagons. However, the Quattro brand couldn’t resist competing with BMW in the segment just below that. If the S5 Avant comes to America, the RS5 should as well, once it’s developed.
In 2024, Audi will change the way its cars are named. Even numbers will be reserved for EVs, while odd numbers will be cars with regular engines. The A4, which has been a sedan since 1994, will be replaced by the A5 Sportback, joined by the A5 Avant. These regular models could debut in the next few months, while the 2025 Audi S5 will come out early next year.
The upside will be that A5 models will look like four-door coupes and shooting brakes. That’s why the roof on this S5 Avant prototype curves down. We also love the wider hips which give the S5 models a widebody look, which previously only the RS4/RS5 had.
We know that these prototypes are the S5 Avant because they also feature lowered suspension and a quad exhaust system. But they might be fake, since on the current S4, the four tips are just plastic and not connected to the engine in any way.
Some have said the design of these new A5/S5 models is predictable. However, there are plenty of people who want a German car but can’t stand the design of the BMW 4 Series grille. Audi is playing it nice and safe with this one.
2025 Audi S5 and SQ5 engines
Little is known about the technical specs. However, the 2025 Audi A5 and S5 are expected to ride on the MLB Evo platform. Like with the current models, the engine you buy might depend on the market. Rumor has it the U.S.-spec S5 will feature the 3.0 TFSI turbocharged V6, which currently delivers 349 hp in the 2024 Audi S5.
It could carry over to the new model. However, the segment is competitive, thanks to the legendary B58 which the M340i shares with the Supra. The logical replacement is the 3.0 turbo used by the latest Porsche Macan, which produces 375 horsepower and 393 pound-feet of torque.
Currently, the European S4 and S5 are offered with 3.0 TDI diesel engine making 336 hp (341 PS). However, we suspect this last S5 generation will be powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain with similar output. The RS5 should be a plug-in hybrid too, based on recent statements from Audi executives.
That last prototype in the Colorado test convoy is an S performance SUV with quad exhaust pipes as well, most likely the SQ5. It should have the same powertrain, platform and might even share its interior with the S5 wagons.
