The Audi Q5 has long been a cornerstone in Audi’s SUV lineup, consistently capturing the attention of consumers worldwide. In 2023, it became the German automaker’s best-selling model globally, a testament to its enduring appeal. As Audi introduces the new generation Q5, they claim it to be more spacious, more modern, and more dynamic. But does it live up to the hype? We ventured to Munich to find out.
A Quick Overview of the New Audi Q5
The Q5 has always held a unique position in Audi’s range, sitting comfortably between the smaller Q3 and the larger Q7. Since its debut in 2008, the Q5 has seen production in various locations, from Audi’s factory in Ingolstadt to its current production hub in Mexico. Half of the Q5 models built in Mexico are destined for North America, with the other half making their way to Europe.
Interestingly, while the Q5 is Audi’s best-selling model globally, it ranks fifth in the UK, trailing behind models like the A3, A1, Q4, and Q2. Despite this, the Q5 remains a crucial model for Audi, especially as the second-generation Q5 set a high standard with its impressive drive quality and luxurious interior.
Evolution in Design: Subtle Yet Significant
At first glance, the new Q5 maintains a familiar silhouette, ensuring it remains recognizable to its loyal fanbase. Audi’s strategy here is clear: why drastically change a design that has proven successful? Instead, they’ve opted for subtle enhancements, making the new Q5 a bit curvier with a slightly higher window line.
The headlights have also been repositioned, sitting higher than before, and Audi proudly showcases their upgraded lighting options. Buyers can choose from eight different light signatures, each offering unique patterns for both the front and rear lights.
A standout feature on the SQ5 is the advanced brake light setup, which can display warning symbols to alert drivers behind if something dangerous is occurring ahead. Additionally, Audi offers 11 color options for the Q5, with the possibility of custom colors through Audi Exclusive—though this option comes with a hefty price tag of around £4,000.
Performance and Technology
In terms of performance, the new Q5 offers several engine options: a petrol, a diesel, and for the SQ5, a 3.0-liter V6 petrol. Unlike some of Audi’s other S models, the SQ5 will not offer a diesel variant, focusing instead on petrol power. The regular 2.0-liter petrol and diesel models will feature Audi’s latest mild-hybrid technology, dubbed Mild Hybrid Plus.
This system includes a 1.7 kWh battery, enabling the car to travel short distances on electric power alone at low speeds. However, this setup adds nearly 70 kg of extra weight, which could impact fuel economy, a detail that remains to be tested in real-world conditions.
All Q5 models will come with a seven-speed automatic gearbox, and a plug-in hybrid version with an impressive 62-mile official range is expected next year. This new Q5 is built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), the same platform as the Audi A5, continuing the lineage from previous generations.
Inside, the Q5’s cabin has drawn inspiration from the larger Q6 e-tron, featuring an 11.9-inch digital driver display, a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an additional 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger.
The passenger screen has a mode that prevents the driver from being distracted by its content, a thoughtful safety feature. While the touchscreen interface is highly responsive, some may miss the physical rotary dial that was present in earlier models.
Interior Space and Practicality
Despite being built on a new platform, the dimensions of the Q5 are quite similar to its predecessor. The car is only 3.5 cm longer, and the wheelbase has increased by a mere 1 mm. This means that interior space remains largely unchanged, with ample legroom in the rear seats. However, taller passengers might find headroom slightly compromised, especially with the sunroof fitted.
The rear seats can slide forward to increase boot space, though the Q5 does not offer a seven-seat option like the larger Q7. The boot itself is only slightly larger than before, with an increase of about 5 liters. However, a notable improvement is the ability to store the parcel shelf under the boot floor—a practical addition that many will appreciate.
The rear seats still split 40:20:40, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger configurations. Audi also plans to release a Q5 Sportback next year, offering a sportier design with a sloping roofline, though at the expense of some rear headroom and boot space.
What’s Next for the Audi Q5?
Audi is set to start taking orders for the new Q5 around October or November, with the first customer deliveries expected in March next year. While pricing details have not yet been announced, it’s reasonable to expect an increase from the current model, which starts just under £50,000 in the UK.
As Audi continues its transition towards electrification, the new Q5 might be one of the last fuel-powered models available before the brand shifts entirely to electric vehicles. By 2026, all new Audi models will be fully electric, and by 2033, the company plans to phase out its fuel-powered cars altogether.
In summary, the new Audi Q5 represents a careful evolution of a winning formula, blending familiar design elements with modern technology and performance.
While it may not be a radical departure from its predecessor, it offers enough enhancements to keep it competitive in the ever-growing SUV market. As we await more details on pricing and specifications, it’s clear that the Q5 will continue to be a significant player for Audi in the years to come.
