2025 Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid [UK] - Plug-in Hybrid Electric vehicle (PHEV)

The automotive world is currently in a state of flux. While the push toward full electrification continues, many drivers find themselves in a "middle ground" of anxiety unsure if charging infrastructure is ready for them, yet eager to lower their tax bills and carbon footprint. Enter the 2025 Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid.

Following Audi’s new naming convention (odd numbers for combustion, even for electric), the A5 replaces the long-running A4. In Avant (estate) form, this e-hybrid (PHEV) version aims to be the ultimate executive all-rounder. But does it deliver enough "Vorsprung" to justify its premium price tag?

Design: Sleek Evolution

Audi has avoided the "shouty" hybrid aesthetic. From the outside, the A5 Avant e-hybrid looks almost identical to its purely petrol or diesel siblings. It is a handsome car, characterized by muscular wheel arches, a wider "Singleframe" grille, and flush-fitting door handles that enhance aerodynamics.

The UK lineup includes four main trims: Technik, Sport, S Line, and Edition 1. Higher trims like the Edition 1 add darker accents and 20-inch alloy wheels that fill the arches perfectly, though even the base Technik looks sophisticated on 18s. The real magic happens at the back, where a continuous LED light strip features second-generation OLED technology, capable of displaying different "signatures" to communicate with other road users.

The Powertrain: Efficiency Meets Punch

The "e-hybrid" badge denotes a sophisticated plug-in system. It pairs a 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine (producing 252 hp) with a potent 142 hp electric motor.

System Output: A combined 299 hp and 450 Nm of torque.
Performance: 0–62 mph in a brisk 5.9 seconds.
Transmission: Seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch, driving all four wheels via Audi’s quattro system.

On the road, the transition between electric and petrol power is nearly imperceptible. Unlike early hybrids that felt lethargic once the battery died, the A5 retains plenty of "spark" thanks to the robust petrol engine.

Battery, Range, and Charging

The headline figure for most UK buyers is the electric-only range. Audi has fitted a massive 25.9 kWh battery (20.7 kWh net), which is roughly 45% larger than its predecessor.

With a range exceeding 60 miles, the A5 Avant e-hybrid qualifies for a highly favorable Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax bracket, making it an incredibly compelling choice for company car drivers in the UK.

Interior: The Digital Stage

Inside, Audi has replaced physical buttons with what they call the "Digital Stage." The dashboard is dominated by a curved panoramic display housing an 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display.

Higher trims (Vorsprung or optional Tech Packs) offer a 10.9-inch passenger display. To prevent driver distraction, this screen features a "digital blind" that makes it invisible from the driver's seat while the car is in motion. While the lack of physical climate buttons may frustrate some traditionalists, the voice-activated "Hey Audi" assistant is snappy and intuitive.

Practicality Note: The transition to the A5 platform has increased the wheelbase, offering better rear legroom. However, the hybrid battery is housed under the boot floor, reducing luggage capacity.

Standard A5 Avant Boot: 476 litres
e-hybrid Avant Boot: 361 litres While the load floor is flat, you do lose that deep under-floor storage found in the diesel models.

Driving Dynamics

Weights for the PHEV are higher due to the battery, tipping the scales at over 2,000kg. However, Audi’s engineers have tuned the suspension to manage this mass effectively.

In town, the car defaults to EV mode, gliding silently and providing instant torque for gap-plugging. On the motorway, refinement is class-leading; the A5 feels rock-solid, with minimal wind noise. The steering is precise, though like many modern Audis, it lacks the communicative "feel" found in a BMW 3 Series. Nevertheless, the quattro system provides immense confidence on greasy UK B-roads.

Pricing and Ownership

The 2025 Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid starts at approximately £51,350 for the Technik trim, rising to over £60,000 for the Edition 1. While that is a significant investment, the low running costs—provided you charge daily—and the tax incentives often make the total cost of ownership lower than a traditional petrol model.

The Verdict

The 2025 Audi A5 Avant e-hybrid is a meticulously engineered bridge to the future. It offers enough electric range to cover the average UK commute without burning a drop of fuel, yet retains the long-distance touring capability and premium finish Audi is known for.

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