Audi is about to electrify your driving experience with the unveiling of its cutting-edge plug-in hybrid powertrain for the stylish new Q5 and Q5 Sportback, set to hit the market in July 2025. Dubbed the Audi Q5 e-hybrid Quattro, this innovative system takes you on a journey of up to 100 kilometers on electric power alone, making it an enticing choice for those who appreciate the thrill of electric driving but aren't quite ready to go fully electric yet. It’s also a smart option for company-car drivers looking to take advantage of more favorable tax rates.
At its core, this hybrid technology embraces the same principles introduced in Audi's sleek A5 and A6 models, sharing essential components and a sophisticated powertrain layout. The heart of the Q5 e-hybrid is a robust 247-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, seamlessly paired with an electric motor and a stout 25.9 kWh battery pack. This amalgamation of power produces a whopping 295 hp, all of which is harnessed to Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system, functioning through a newly designed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Hold on tight, as this powerhouse will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds, with a top speed that reaches a thrilling 250 km/h.
Charging into the new era, Audi has boosted the AC charging capabilities to an impressive 11 kW; this means you can fully charge the battery in around 2.5 hours from empty. However, the brand has refrained from introducing DC fast-charging options at this time. A notable feature of this electrifying powertrain is its advanced regenerative braking system, which effectively captures energy through both the brake pedal and the throttle lift-off. To heighten the driving experience, the strength of this regenerative braking can be expertly managed using paddles located behind the steering wheel. Audi claims that an impressive 90 percent of all braking can be taken care of by the electric motor’s regenerative capabilities, allowing you to maximize those all-important electric miles. With such capabilities, the Q5 e-hybrid exceeds the previous generation by offering an astounding range of up to 100 kilometers on battery power alone.
This represents a significant 45 percent increase, positioning it right between its main competitors. The BMW X3, for instance, can offer around 80 kilometers from its smaller 20 kWh battery, whereas the Mercedes GLC leads the pack with a remarkable 120-kilometer WLTP range. However, while the new Q5 may be knocking on the door of the Mercedes in terms of electric range, it does face a challenge with its CO2 emissions, which range from 56 to 75 g/km. This higher figure places it in a tax bracket that could sting company-car owners, especially when compared to the Mercedes, which boasts a mere 13 g/km. Moreover, accommodating the battery pack has resulted in a slight compromise with boot space.
The Q5 offers a practical 438 liters of space, while the Sportback provides 433 liters. This figure reflects a reduction of approximately 80 liters when compared to non-PHEV variants. Flip down the second-row seats to expand your cargo options, but don’t expect to find much under-floor storage, as is the case with its key rivals. Beyond its advanced powertrain, the plug-in Q5 retains the essence of its existing models, flaunting the same high-quality interior displays and a sleek, familiar exterior design. In terms of pricing, the Q5 starts at approximately €66,000 for the SUV variant and around €68,000 for the Sportback model. Both vehicles feature a slightly enhanced specification as standard, including sportier S-line suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and upgraded LED head and tail lights.
The future is electrifying, and Audi is committed to leading the charge. Experience the thrill and practicality of the Q5 e-hybrid Quattro – where luxury meets sustainable driving, ushering in a new era of automotive excellence.