The power base at Audi is changing as a 180PS version of the all-new 2.0-litre TFSI unit takes over from the 1.8 TFSI in the A5 coupe — the latest step in an exhaustive engine development programme bringing average CO2 reductions of as much as 10 per cent for core Audi models within the past 12 months.

Derived from the 211PS version of the turbo charged 2.0-litre, four-cylinder FSI engine introduced earlier this month in the A5, and sharing its new, economy enhancing Audi valvelift technology, the new 180PS unit holds a 10PS power advantage over the 1.8 TFSI, and delivers its peak output 800rpm earlier. Torque also increases by 70Nm to 320Nm, which is available from 1,500rpm to 3,900rpm, ensuring that the A5 2.0 TFSI can out-accelerate its predecessor to 62mph by 0.6 seconds, taking 7.8 seconds to go the distance, and can continue to 240km/h

All-important fuel economy and emissions control have naturally taken a step forward compared with the outgoing model as well, the A5 2.0 TFSI registering 6.6L/100km in the combined cycle test — a 7.5 per cent improvement over the 1.8 TFSI — and emitting 154g/km of CO2, down from the 1.8 TFSI’s 169g/km — a 9 per cent reduction.

As pledged by Audi Board of Management Chairman Rupert Stadler this enhancement to the A5 engine range is evidence of the pursuit by Audi of a 20 per cent decrease in fleet-wide CO2 emissions by 2012.

Standard specification for the new A5 2.0 TFSI 180PS includes 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, 3-zone electronic climate control, a 10-speaker Concert CD audio system, full Milano leather upholstery and rear acoustic parking. Sport models with sports suspension ride 20mm lower on larger 18-inch 10-spoke V design alloy wheels, and inside upgrade to sports seats.

Information on New Zealand sales is as yet unavailable.