New Audi A6-size coupé prepares for battle

Seen here undergoing cold-climate testing in northern Sweden is the all-new Audi A5 which is going to be a sporty coupé adapting the design of Audi's Nuvolari concept car.

Judging from the cars caught testing, the new coupé will be considerably larger than the current A4; actually almost the size of today's A6.

With the A5, Audi intends to take on competitors such as the BMW 3-Series coupé, Mercedes CLK and Volvo C70. However, given its bigger size, it may well appeal to owners of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-class models who are seeking more coupé looks.

Alongside the regular coupé, indications from inside the company are that a convertible A5 - which is being planned - will come with a traditional soft-top roof.

Power for both hard and soft-top versions is expected to come from two engines, a 3-litre TDI V6 and 3.2-litre FSI V6 petrol unit delivering 255bhp. The A5 is expected to be released by the end of 2007.