Audi A5 Sedan

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Mercedes-AMG C-Class Sedan

The exterior of the “A5” is not flashy

In 2024, Audi announced the A5, which was developed based on the new-generation internal combustion engine platform “PPC (Premium Platform Combustion).” This time, we picked out the A5 TFSI quattro 150kW, which combines a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine with AWD, from the lineup that includes a 48V mild hybrid model.

Compared to the Mercedes-Benz C200 Sport, the A5 is slightly larger, 50mm in overall length, 40mm in width, and 30mm in wheelbase. As for the exterior, the A5 features a combination of blacked-out four-rings and matrix LED headlights that create a variety of expressions, while the C-Class has the traditional three-pointed star at its center. This strongly emphasizes that it is a Mercedes-Benz model.

Audi A5 TFSI quattro 150kW

Body size = Length 4835mm x Width 1860mm x Height 1455mm

Wheelbase = 2895mm

Vehicle weight = 1800kg

Tire size = 225/55R17

Mercedes-Benz C200 Sport

Body size = Length 4785mm x Width 1820mm x Height 1435mm

Wheelbase = 2865mm

Vehicle weight = 1690kg

Tire size = 225/50R17 (front), 245/40R18 (rear)

The C200 has a small engine displacement but is as powerful as the A5.

The A5 TFSI quattro 150kW is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder TFSI gasoline turbo. In line with the AWD, maximum output has been increased from 150 PS in the entry-level grade to 204 PS, and maximum torque has also been increased to 340 Nm.

The C200 Sport is equipped with a 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine and an electric powertrain called the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), and produces the same maximum output as the A5 at 204 PS. The A5 has 40 Nm more maximum torque, and although the ISG provides starting acceleration (17 kW, 205 Nm) in urban areas, the A5’s larger displacement gives it an advantage when it comes to drivability, especially in urban areas.

Audi A5 TFSI quattro 150kW

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo

Displacement = 1984cc

Maximum output = 204PS / 4300-6000rpm

Maximum torque = 340Nm / 2000-4000rpm

Transmission = 7-speed S tronic (DCT)

Drive system = AWD

Mercedes-Benz C200 Sport

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo + ISG

Displacement = 1494cc

Maximum output = 204PS / 5800-6100rpm

Maximum torque = 300Nm / 1800-4000rpm

Transmission = 9-speed AT

Drive system = RWD

Can it attract Mercedes-minded customers?

The A5’s cockpit, which is equipped with the latest generation infotainment system, consists of an 11.9-inch “Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus” and a 14.5-inch “MMI touch display.” The C200 has a 12.3-inch meter display and a vertical 11.9-inch display. Mercedes has also followed the trend with horizontal displays in its latest models, giving the impression that the C-Class has a cockpit from one generation ago.

The price difference between the A5 TFSI quattro 150kW and the C200 Sport is 540,000 yen. Despite the introduction of a torque-rich 2.0-liter engine, the “quattro” AWD system, and the latest generation cockpit, the A5 has a lower price tag than the C-Class, which is in the same segment. Will the latest Audi be able to attract the attention of customers seeking a luxury experience typical of Mercedes?

Vehicle price

Audi A5 TFSI quattro 150kW 6.81 million yen

Mercedes-Benz C200 Sport 7.35 million yen

Related reading

A comparative test drive of the Mercedes-AMG E 53 Station Wagon and the BMW i5 M60 xTouring, rivals that remain unchanged in the era of electrification

The top models of the European E-segment station wagons are the Mercedes-AMG E 53 Station Wagon and the BMW i5 M60 Touring. Although they differ in powertrain, one a PHV and the other a BEV, both vehicles have the driving capabilities of a super sports car. By comparing the potential of the two cars, we can see the truth. (Reprinted and re-edited from the May 2025 issue of GENROQ)