The newly-launched Audi A5 has spiced up competition in the premium car segment in India. The BMW 3 Series GT locks horns with the new A5 in the Sportback segment. In comparison to the 3 Series sedan, the 3 GT offers additional legroom for rear seat occupants and more boot space. The Audi A5, on the other hand, is available in Sportback and Cabriolet body styles.
The A5 in Sportback and Cabriolet body style is limited to a 2.0-litre TDI Ultra engine which generates 190bhp of power at 3800-4200pm and 400Nm of torque at 1750-3000rpm. The engine comes mated to a seven-speed DSG transmission. There is also a powerful Audi S5 Sportsback on offer which gets a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that generates 351bhp of power at 5,500rpm and 500Nm of torque at 2,900rpm. The powerful engine comes mated to eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s signature quattro AWD technology. The BMW 3 Series GT will be offered with the same existing 2.0-litre diesel engine that develops 188bhp of power at 4000rpm and 400Nm of torque at 1750rpm. The vehicle comes mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox driving the rear wheels. The 3 Series GT is also available with a 2.0-litre inline-four petrol option that generates 248bhp of power at 5200rpm and 350Nm of torque at 1450rpm.
The new A5 gets a redesigned centre console and a dashboard that give it a modern look. The dashboard now looks futuristic thanks to the horizontal surfacing, elegant wood finish and matt chrome elements. The car is loaded with features including Audi’s brilliant virtual cockpit, MMI system with a touchpad, three zone climate control, wireless charging and powered front seats. The 3 GT cabin is spacious and luxurious. The understated dark interior exudes comfort and quality and now gets some new equipment. The infotainment interface has been revamped with a new screen and software and gets USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity including a GPS navigation system. The front seats are electrically adjustable and it gets electrically adjustable and retractable wing mirrors and a sunroof, as well. Cruise control, dual-zone climate control along with start-stop button and keyless entry are standard.
Both the cars get safety equipment like airbags and driving aids like ABS, EBD, traction control as standard. The A5 range in India starts at Rs 54.02 lakhs and goes all the way up to Rs 70.6 lakhs for the S5. The BMW 3 Series GT starts at Rs 42.5 lakhs and goes all the way up to Rs 48.6 lakhs for the 3301 Luxury Line. The BMW 3 Series GT is slightly underpowered than the A5, however, due to localised production it emerges as a clear winner on the pricing aspect. The A5, on the other hand, being a CBU, is an expensive option in its segment. However, the A5 makes up for this additional cost with better performance, especially with the S5 and a stylish A5 Cabriolet body-style.
