Audi has introduced a comprehensive update for five of its core model series—the A5, A6, Q5, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron—designed to bridge the gap between high-performance “emotion” and daily “comfort.” These updates affect vehicles built on both the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) and the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC).
With the new model year, we will be further enhancing important model series and offering our customers a host of new features. These comprehensive innovations impressively demonstrate the future viability of the PPE platform for electric models and the PPC platform for combustion-engine vehicles.
Geoffrey Bouquot [Audi Chief Technical Officer]
1. More Emotion: “Dynamic Plus” Mode
Audi is intensifying the driving experience, specifically for the performance-oriented S5 and S6 e-tron models.
- Dynamic Plus Mode: This new setting delivers rear-biased handling, allowing for controlled oversteer and “playful” drifts.
- Precision Traction: In the S5, this is managed by a standard quattro sport differential; in the S6 e-tron, it uses an electric all-wheel-drive system paired with brake torque vectoring.
- Sport Displays: Activating this mode changes the virtual cockpit and Head-Up Display (HUD). The combustion models gain a central rev counter with shift lights, while electric models feature a specialized power meter.
2. More Comfort: Interior & Ride Quality
The updates focus on “Experience Worlds”—a system that synchronizes lighting, sound, and climate to suit the driver’s mood.
- Experience Modes: Initially offering Relaxing, Activating, and Harmonizing modes. These adjust the massage seat intensity, ambient lighting, and audio themes for 10–20 minute cycles.
- “Power Nap” (EVs Only): For e-tron models, this mode is specifically designed for charging stops, optimizing the seat position and cabin environment for a quick rest.
- Acoustic & Seating Upgrades: The A6 series receives new contoured front seats for better lateral support and standard dual-pane acoustic glass in higher trims to minimize road noise.
3. Smarter Features: Tech & AI Integration
Audi is moving away from purely touch-sensitive interfaces and toward a more intelligent, AI-driven cockpit.
- The Return of Buttons: Responding to customer feedback, Audi is reintroducing physical buttons on the steering wheel, replacing the capacitive haptic sliders found in earlier iterations.
- AI-Enhanced Audi Assistant: The voice assistant now integrates with ChatGPT, allowing it to answer complex, natural-language questions and act as a mobile “office” by reading emails or managing calendars.
- Integrated 4K Dashcam: A factory-installed, high-resolution dashcam is now available, integrated into the base of the rearview mirror. It features an “Event Mode” that automatically saves footage before and after an incident.
- In-Car Gaming: Drivers can now connect Bluetooth controllers to play games on the central MMI display while the vehicle is stationary.
4. Driver Assistance: Next-Gen Automation
The driver assistance systems (ADAS) have become significantly more proactive.
- Assisted Lane Changes: On highways, the car can now perform lane changes autonomously once the driver initiates the maneuver by activating the turn signal.
- Trained Parking: The Park Assist Pro can now “learn” and save up to five unique parking routines (up to 200 meters each). This allows the car to navigate complex driveways or private property and park itself automatically.
- Reverse Assist: This feature can now take over the steering for the final 50 meters when reversing, which is ideal for backing out of narrow, winding streets.
5. Efficiency & Powertrains
- Enhanced Regeneration (e-tron): The A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron now feature “one-pedal” driving capabilities, allowing the vehicle to decelerate to a complete stop using only energy recuperation, increasing both comfort and driving range.
- New V6 Power: For the combustion-powered Q5 and A6, Audi has introduced a new 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine with MHEV plus technology, providing a boost of 18 kW (24 PS) for smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency.
Audi models based on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) and Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) will receive a comprehensive hardware and software update at the start of the new model year. New features will be added to the A5, A6, Q5, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron series.
Image Courtesy: Audi Media Center
