The Audi Q5 has taken the automotive world by storm, standing tall as a monumental success that eclipses rivals across its vast model range, from the A1 all the way to the A8. Born in 2008, the Q5 evolved dramatically with the launch of its second generation in 2016, which introduced a sleek new design and cutting-edge technology. Now, the latest Mk3 model ventures even further, building on an already impressive legacy, according to marketing spokesperson Dominic Stern, who touts the advancements that propel this beloved SUV into a new era.
The newest incarnation of the Q5, accompanied by the exhilarating SQ5 performance variant, is engineered on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), beautifully intertwining design cues from the A5 and A5 Avant. It's a sight to behold, featuring a bold wide grille, striking LED headlights, and a freshly designed badge that exudes sophistication up front. At the rear, the Q5 captivates with its full-width lightbar and customizable LED tail-lights, ensuring it turns heads wherever it roams.
Designer Konrad Troger emphasizes the thoughtful touches that enhance the rear end, including a third brake light artfully integrated into the roof-mounted spoiler. The rear bumper sports an eye-catching mesh-like trim and eye-popping “hot” exhaust pipes mirroring the spirited design of the A5, all while showcasing Audi's iconic four-ring logo proudly placed on the bootlid.
While the exterior brims with aesthetic prowess, it’s the interior that truly shines with transformative updates. The Q5 now boasts an impressive three-screen layout, echoing the innovation found in Audi's A5 and A6 e-tron models. Welcome to the 'Digital Stage,' where an expansive 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit, a 14.5-inch touch display and a 10.9-inch 27.6 centimeters passenger screen offer ultimate control for media and navigation. The primary screen supports Android Auto and can be updated wirelessly. What’s more, the ability to download apps like YouTube and Spotify directly into the MMI system adds a new dimension of convenience. Every journey is enhanced with a 15-watt cooled charging tray and an array of USB ports, including a robust 100W port dedicated to larger devices.
As you step inside the new Q5, the enhanced quality is nothing short of breathtaking. Audi introduces its stunning 'soft-wrap' design element, a flowing aesthetic from the dashboard to the doors that envelops occupants in luxury. With options for sustainable fabrics like Kaskade textile and Dinamica suede alternative, owners can personalize their space, ensuring a transformation of the mid-size SUV into a statement of opulence.
Space and practicality remain pivotal with the latest model. The Q5 presents a generous 520-liter boot that expands to a staggering 1,473 liters when the rear seats are folded down, accommodating all of your adventures. Thoughtfully designed, the parcel shelf can be cleverly stowed beneath the boot floor, and an optional sliding and reclining rear bench adds an element of versatility.
Riding the waves of contemporary trends within Audi's SUV lineup, the eagerly awaited Q5 Sportback variant is set to debut following the standard SUV. With its sleek, sloping roofline and captivating tail-lights, this version is poised to make waves when unveiled later this year. Importantly, Audi has announced that this model will mark the finale for combustion-engine Q5 models, transitioning to the PPC architecture and offering a lineup of petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains with the thrilling SQ5 variant at the fore.
At its core, the base Q5 model will be powered by a robust 2.0-liter TFSI engine, delivering a spirited 201bhp and 340Nm of torque, with front or quattro all-wheel drive options available. The integrated MHEV unit features a 1.7kWh battery powering short bursts of 18kW (24bhp) boost, along with a regenerative braking capability of up to 25kW. The high-performing 2.0-liter TDI engine, also producing 201bhp, will exclusively feature quattro all-wheel drive. Both engines are paired with a seven-speed S tronic gearbox, ensuring seamless performance.
The exhilarating Q5 TFSIe is set to join the lineup by mid-2025, with promising specifications already on the table. With a shared 25.9kWh battery boasting over 80 kilometers of electric range, it will couple with a modified 2.0-liter TFSI engine, providing a remarkable combined power output of either 295bhp or 362bhp. The top-tier SQ5 takes performance to new heights, equipped with a thrilling 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine producing 362bhp and 550Nm of torque, complemented by quattro all-wheel drive and a smooth torque converter gearbox. With prestige driving dynamics hallmarking the Audi brand, the Q5 encompasses neutral handling and enhanced comfort, thanks to optimized suspension and steering. Buyers will revel in selecting from 11 stunning colors and an assortment of alloy wheel options, ranging from 43.2 centimeters to 53.3 centimeters, with innovative aero-optimized designs and forged wheels specifically for the S model.
For enthusiasts, a variety of trims such as Sport, S line, and Edition 1 await, with the possibility of the latter transitioning into a striking Black Edition as initial supplies are depleted.