Audi has announced a set of interior and technology updates for five of its newest models, the A5, A6, Q5, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron, each launched within the past 18 months.
The second-generation Audi Q3 is the only recent model not yet included in the upgrade.
Return to physical steering wheel controls
Among the key changes is a redesigned steering wheel that replaces capacitive touch sliders with physical scroll wheels. “Audi says the change addresses customer feedback, which increasingly favoured traditional tactile controls.”
Upgraded infotainment and interaction
The models also inherit the Audi Q3’s latest infotainment and instrumentation interface, featuring:
- Simplified menu structure
- Larger icons
- Smartphone navigation guidance is now shown in the driver display
Audi’s in-car gaming system now supports wireless controllers similar to home gaming consoles.
Despite the added tech, Audi has incorporated additional technology features, the physical cabin layout remains largely unchanged, and most functions still rely on the central touchscreen or steering-wheel buttons.
There may be more interior changes in store for these models when they receive their mid-life facelifts, with the Concept C, unveiled in September, previewing a return to high-quality buttons, knobs, and switches.
Performance and driver assistance improvements
The sport-focused Audi S5 and Audi S6 e-tron gain a new Dynamic Plus driving mode that adjusts all-wheel-drive response and torque vectoring to enhance all-wheel-drive response and torque vectoring.
Revised regenerative braking in the A6 e-tron and Q6 e-tron supports one-pedal driving to a standstill without using the friction brakes.
The Audi A6 also adds digital matrix micro-LED headlights that can project warning symbols onto the road ahead. At the same time, an optional integrated 4K dashcam is available as an option across the five model range.
Voice assistant powered by ChatGPT
Audi’s voice assistant has been updated with additional vehicle functions and AI capabilities through ChatGPT.
It can now access more of the car’s systems and perform certain tasks automatically, such as raising suspension over obstacles or activating adaptive cruise control when entering a highway.
The updated models will start arriving in German showrooms from early 2026. Australian timing is still to be confirmed.
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