The highly anticipated third generation of the Audi Q5 has finally arrived, this iconic mid-size SUV. Renowned as one of Europe's most popular SUVs, the new Audi Q5 continues to offer the powerful performance of petrol and diesel engines, now enhanced with mild hybrid technology. As the last Q5 to feature a combustion engine, this model signifies Audi's shift towards an all-electric future, marking the end of an era for their internal combustion lineup.
This is Audi's second car to sit on its premium Platforms Combustion (PPC) with a design influenced by the similar A5 Avant and A5. The Q5 will offer petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains, along with the SQ5.
The Q5 starts with a 2.0-liter TFSI petrol engine producing 201 bhp, which drives the front wheels, although all-wheel drive is also available. This base engine includes a mild-hybrid system with a 1.7 kWh battery that can provide a 24 bhp boost during short bursts and allows for up to 25 kW of recuperation during braking. Additionally, a 2.0-liter TDI engine with 201 bhp will be offered, but this engine is only available with the quattro all-wheel drive system. All models come with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.
The Audi Q5 TFSIe won't hit the roads until mid-2025, but it's already shaping up to be impressive. Both versions will come with a 25.9 kWh battery, giving you over 50 miles of electric range. Under the hood, you'll find a variant of the 2.0-liter TFSI engine, delivering a choice between 295 bhp or a thrilling 362 bhp.
At the top of the range is the SQ5, which boasts a 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine delivering 362 bhp and 550 Nm of torque. This model features an all-wheel drive and a torque converter gearbox. While performance figures haven’t been released yet, it promises to offer a dynamic and powerful driving experience.
The SQ5 comes in a palette of 11 colours, including seven metallic shades, one solid colour, and three pearlescent hues exclusive to the S line and SQ5 models. You can also choose from a variety of alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 21 inches, allowing you to customise the look to match your style.
The new Audi Q5 hasn’t changed drastically but has received some subtle updates for a fresher look. It now features a single-frame grille, updated LED headlights, and new air intakes. At the back, there’s a full-length lightbar linked to slim, customisable LED taillights, giving the Q5 a more modern touch.
Beneath the bumper is a set of functional exhaust pipes and the Diesel cars get a single side exhaust, petrol models get twin exhausts while the SQ5 gets four round tailpipes.
The interior of the new Audi Q5 sees a much more significant update compared to the exterior. It now offers three trim levels beyond the base, including Advanced and S Line options. Similar to the A6 e-tron, you can opt for a three-screen layout with Audi’s latest MMI infotainment system. This setup features an 11-inch Virtual Cockpit, a 14.5-inch touch display, and a separate 10.9-inch screen for the passenger, integrated into the dashboard for controlling navigation and media. A configurable head-up display is also available. Overall, the interior boasts a notable upgrade in quality, with a wrap-around element that seamlessly connects the dashboard to the doors.
The main touch screen in the new Audi Q5 runs Android Auto and allows you to download apps like YouTube and Spotify directly. These apps are integrated into the MMI system, so you don’t need to connect a smartphone to use them.
Practicality is a strong suit of the new Audi Q5, offering a spacious 520-liter boot that expands to 1,473 litters with the rear seats folded down. Pricing is expected to start around £44,000 for the base model and go up to £70,000 for the SQ5. The Q5 is anticipated to be on sale at the beginning of 2025.
