When the 2018 #Audi A5 and S5 Coupe will hit US showrooms early next year, they'll bring along new engines, more standard and optional driver assistance systems as well their well-documented evolutionary design.

According to Anthony Garbis, Audi USA product manager, the new-generation A5 and S5 models are more aggressive than their predecessors thanks to the stronger shoulder lines, wider grille and powerful wheel arches.

At the same time, interior highlights include a wide array of strong standard features such as three-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, panoramic sunroof, LED ambient lighting with 30 color settings, aluminum trimaran inlays and a folding and sliding front-center armrest with height adjustment.

In terms of powertrains, A5 Coupe models are equipped with a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder petrol engine, coupled with either a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual transmission. These engines put down 252 HP and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque, accelerating the automatic A5 from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.6 seconds with the manual version requiring an extra 0.1 seconds.

As for the S5 Coupe, it utilizes a completely new 3.0-liter TFSI V6 unit, producing 354 HP and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque, allowing for a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of just 4.4 seconds. This model comes with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission instead of the seven-speed S tronic.

Also new for 2018 is the six-speed manual with quattro & ultra technology combo, allowing for a proactive control of the all-wheel drive system. However, those seeking an even more dynamic driving experience can rely on the S5's sport differential, which actively splits torque at the rear axle, and is even able to send nearly all torque to one wheel.

On the road, A5 models feature available sports suspension, which lowers ride height by 23 mm (0.9 in), utilizing different tubular anti-roll bars, dampers and linear-rate springs. Also available is the comfort adaptive damping suspension for the A5, which lowers ride height by just 10 mm (0.4 in) - though the S5 is the one that gets sport adaptive damping suspension as well as dynamic steering.

Of course, where the A5 and S5 really excel compared to previous generation models are in all those tech-related departments, thanks to features such as Audi virtual cockpit, a full-color head-up display, MMI touch, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto integration and 4G LTE. In terms of safety, systems such as Audi Pre sense city, side assist, pre sense rear, exit assist, rear cross traffic assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, active lane assist or turn assist are designed to help drivers navigate all roads with the upmost confidence.