Audi adds more button in early update for key models

Audi is giving five of its models a significant refresh, with hardware, software and comfort upgrades coming to the A5, A6, Q5, A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron ranges. This is rather significant given some of these models are less than a year old. The update spans everything from lighting tech and driver assistance to infotainment, driving dynamics and even reinstating some actual buttons.

Audi CTO Geoffrey Bouquot says the changes highlight the flexibility of both the brand’s electric PPE platform and the combustion-engine PPC architecture. “With the new model year, we will be further enhancing important model series and offering our customers a host of new features,” he says.

Sharper dynamics for S models

A new Dynamic Plus mode arrives for the S5 and S6 e-tron, aiming to boost driver engagement with more responsive power delivery, active torque vectoring and a sport-focused ESC setting that allows controlled oversteer. A bespoke performance display with shift lights and a round tacho reinforces the more driver-centric setup.

Efficiency also improves for Audi’s PPE-based EVs, which can now brake purely through regen all the way to a stop, delivering smoother deceleration and recovering more energy.

Smarter driver assistance

An upgraded adaptive cruise assist will add lane centring and can support driver-initiated lane changes on motorways by steering into the new lane once the indicator is applied. Traffic-sign recognition also takes a step forward, automatically adjusting speed for posted limits, stop signs and right-of-way situations in urban areas.

Parking tech adds reverse assist which takes care of backing manoeuvre for up to 50m, while trained parking can memorise up to five 200m parking routines and repeat them autonomously. Smartphone-controlled garage parking is also available with the Tech Pro package.

Interior and infotainment updates

Inside, models receive a new multifunction steering wheel and a simplified interface shared with the latest Q3. Traditional physical controls return for key functions, and PPC-based A6 models gain new front seats with better support.

Smartphone mirroring now extends into the virtual cockpit and passenger display, while drivers can switch between three instrument layouts.

The Audi assistant also expands its abilities with AI-driven learning and ChatGPT integration. It can now answer vehicle-specific questions, help with vague navigation requests and manage emails and calendar functions through the in-car office.

Built-in dashcam and new “experience worlds”

A factory-integrated 4K dashcam arrives as an option, mounted below the mirror and capable of automatic event recording using HDR imaging. Footage is stored locally on an SD card and can be viewed directly on the central display.

Audi is also introducing “experience worlds” – themed interior settings that blend lighting, sound, seat functions and climate control into short mood-based programmes. EVs gain a Power Nap mode for charging stops, while gaming capability improves with Bluetooth controller and headphone support.