The third-generation Audi Q5 has been revealed to the world, complete with fresh underpinnings and a highly digitised cabin with more screen real estate than ever.
Following the recently unveiled new-generation Audi A5, the Q5 is the second vehicle to be underpinned by the company’s new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which is believed to be Audi’s last internal combustion platform. Air suspension, with adaptive damper control, will be available as an option.
Like its A5 sibling, the combustion versions have Audi’s new MHEV Plus 48-volt mild hybrid system, which allows for a limited amount of purely electric manoeuvring and parking. Its compact electric motor can also momentarily boost power and torque by 18kW and 230Nm.
At launch the Audi Q5 will be available internationally with three engine versions, with more to follow.
Kicking things off is a front-wheel drive 2.0 TFSI model with 150kW and 340Nm, and Quattro all-wheel drive will be optional on this model.
The latter is standard on the new 2.0 TDI turbodiesel model, which offers up 150kW and 400Nm. Topping the pile is the Audi SQ5 featuring a V6 turbopetrol engine tuned to 270kW and 550Nm.
The South African engine line-up and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch. At this stage Audi SA is aiming to introduce the new model towards the end of 2024.
Inside the new Audi Q5 goes big on digital, with an Android-powered MMI infotainment system and optional 10.9-inch passenger screen with Active Privacy Model that prevents drivers from being distracted.
The Q5 is also available with a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D surround sound and “Symphoria” technology developed by the Fraunhofer Institute.
Another hightech option is the new configurable Head-Up Display (HUD), that can show a wide range of information, from speed to navigation and media content, in a “clear and concise” manner. Incoming phone calls can now be answered directly via a steering wheel button, and the HUD can also display recent calls to make it easier to select frequently dialled numbers.
Stay tuned for more information on the new Audi Q5 closer to launch.
IOL Motoring