SPY PICS: New Audi A5 and S5 to premiere in Geneva

Audi's next-generation A5 and its high-performance counterpart, the S5, have been spotted testing in Germany.

Like the sedan and wagon A4 range that shares the MLB platform and will be launched globally before the end of this month, the A5 and S5 are expected to be lighter but larger than the current models.

Most of the pictures here feature the two-door coupe versions, but there will continue to be Sportback (five-door liftback) models as well. In fact, the car following an A5 coupe in three of these shots (registration IN X 4775) has obvious door-handles near the rear wheel-arches and the roofline is higher than that of the coupe in front.

In broad-brush styling terms the new cars are adopting the latest iteration of Audi corporate look, with headlights that bear the same menacing set to them as the third-generation TT. Expect the new models to offer – at least as an option – matrix LED headlights, and upgraded driver-assist technology. If the A5 and S5 follow the lead of the A4, which they will, Audi will shave about 100kg off the weight of the new cars through extended use of aluminium and high-strength steel.

In addition to conventional drivetrain options, there's a better than even chance the A5 will offer buyers the choice of a plug-in hybrid ('e-tron') model such as is already available in the A3 and Q7 ranges. And for those who find that whole electric-motor drive business too confronting, Audi is set to roll out the same Miller-cycle 2.0-litre TFSI (turbocharged and direct-injected) four-cylinder engine already planned for the new A4.

First official sighting of the A5 is expected to be at Geneva next year and production is not due to start until August of next year, making a local launch before the end of 2016 unlikely. And we think the S5 and RS 5 will probably come later still.