Audi A5L (2025) revealed: Long version with notchback for China

Some die-hard fans of the classic saloon with notchback will not approve: The successor to the Audi A4, now called the A5, is once again a saloon, but this has a hatchback with a large tailgate in the style of the old A5 Sportback. However, the situation is quite different in China, where the brand has now unveiled the A5L, the long-wheelbase version of the new A5.

The strange thing about it is that the new A5L is the notchback of a saloon, which in its actual European version is a hatchback. However, Audi is not revealing too much about the long A5 and has not provided any details about its dimensions. The A5L follows Audi's new international naming system, which differentiates between the model numbers for electric models and classic model series. As a combustion model, the A5L is based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC).

Audi A5L for China

Photo: Audi

Audi A5L for China

Officially, it is merely stated that its extended wheelbase enables a significantly improved feeling of space "with the usual dynamic proportions". The A5L is 4,902 millimetres long and therefore a good eight centimetres longer than the normal A5. Individual designs at the front and rear - such as the illuminated rings - ensure an unmistakable appearance. The interior features illuminated door mirrors or (according to Audi) "high-tech solutions, for example in the display and operating concept".

2025 Audi A5L (China)

Photo: Audi

Shortly before the market launch, the Audi Q6L e-tron will be the first locally produced representative on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). From the end of December, it will be produced exclusively for the Chinese market by the Audi FAW NEV Company founded by Audi and FAW. To this end, the co-operation company has set up a new production site in Changchun for the manufacture of all-electric Audi models.

Gallery: 2025 Audi A5L (China)

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Source: Audi

The Audi Q6L e-tron differs from the global model from Ingolstadt not only with its traditionally longer wheelbase, but also with numerous design features and market-specific innovations specifically geared towards the Chinese market. And the interior of the Q6L e-tron, which can be seen for the first time, impresses with a digital experience also developed specifically for China. Overall, the interior of the Audi Q6L e-tron is more consistently geared towards the needs of Chinese customers than ever before.

Audi Q6L e-tron

Photo: Audi

AUDI E concept

And it should be, because the Chinese market is no longer doing well for German manufacturers. Audi therefore wants to become AUDI there. The AUDI E concept will be on show to the general public for the first time in Guangzhou. It is the first concept car from the expanded cooperation between Audi and SAIC, which made its debut in Shanghai on 7 November 2024.

The near-production study provides a preview of three AUDI brand production models that Audi will be launching together with partner SAIC from 2025. Fermín Soneira, long-standing head of Audi's electrically powered model series, is leading the partnership. The AUDI E concept presents itself as a 4.87 metre long and 1.99 metre wide Sportback. Two electric motors with 575 PS and quattro all-wheel drive are to ensure outstanding driving dynamics. 

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