- All-new Audi Q5 and SQ5 revealed
- Third generation of Audi’s premium, medium-sized SUV
- Mild-hybrid powertrains as standard and more dynamic handling
- Full UK specs and prices will be announced in October
Here’s your first look at the all-new, third generation Audi Q5, which will arrive later this year with sportier handling, a more spacious interior and mild-hybrid powertrains as standard.
The Q5 has been a stalwart of the medium-sized SUV segment since its launch back in 2008 and it has long gone toe-to-toe with the BMW X3 and the Volvo XC60.
The latest Q5 will boast some big improvements when it gets a proper launch later this year.
The first thing to note is that mild-hybrid tech is par for the course across the entire range. The new Q5 sits in Audi’s ‘Premium Platform Combustion (PPC)’ - the same underpinnings as the recently-launched Audi A5 - which means it’s a doddle to accommodate electrification. A plug-in hybrid Q5 will also be revealed in due course.
A 48-volt electrical system supports the combustion engine and, unlike with some other mild-hybrids, the Q5 will be able to travel short distances using electricity alone.
The entry-level engine is a 2.0-litre TFSI petrol with 204 PS, 340 Nm of torque and Audi’s ‘quattro’ all-wheel drive. The base 2.0-litre diesel gets the same 204 PS but more shove courtesy of 400 Nm of torque.
Meanwhile the performance SQ5 (above) uses a 3.0-litre petrol V6 to produce 367 PS - a significant increase on the outgoing model’s 341 PS. Whichever Q5 you choose, it’ll come with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission as standard.
Another major improvement comes with how the Q5 handles.
A ‘dynamically tuned’ steel suspension set-up is standard and works in combination with a passive damping system called ‘FSD’, or ‘Frequency Selective Damping’.
Audi tells us that all of this equates to a more agile front axle, a firmer ride on the road, yet also more compliance when you tackle things like cobblestones.
Our Audi spokesperson explains: “Compared to the predecessor model, it offers a much more noticeable spread between comfort and sport mode. The new Audi Q5 and SQ5 are both offered with enhanced progressive steering as standard.”
If you want even fancier handling, the SQ5 Edition 1 comes with adaptive air suspension.
Besides the oily bits, the new Q5 looks different compared to its predecessor while being more practical and spacious.
The exterior gains a taut and high shoulder line to create a more powerful silhouette while there’s a new front grille and high-tech lights all round.
Three trims will be available at launch - Sport, S line, Edition 1 and SQ5 Edition 1.
Models from S line and above get a sliding and tilting rear bench of seats, which helps you to increase or reduce the available boot space according to your needs.
The SQ5 Edition 1 also looks more aggressive than ever, with larger front air intakes and a sportier rear diffuser.
The Q5’s cockpit features a curved panoramic display with a 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch infotainment system. You can also order an additional 10.9-inch passenger display, which is cunningly shielded from the driver so as not to distract them.
Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, commented: “The Audi Q5 has been our most successful and most important SUV model in the midsize class for more than 15 years. The new edition is a further development of its proven characteristics. As the second model in our new generation of highly efficient combustion engines, it marks the next important step in the rejuvenation of our portfolio. I am certain that the new Audi Q5, as a sporty all-rounder with a dynamic SUV design, will continue its success story."
Watch this space for further updates.
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