The Audi Q5, one of Audi's longstanding best sellers, is to be replaced by an all-new successor with a ground-up rework and an intense focus on connectivity, driver assistance, aeroacoustics and driving dynamics. This new SUV takes a defined and taut stance with a sculpturally flared Singleframe grille with a solid frame that dominates the front end.
Design
Outside the Audi Q5 boasts a curved and strongly undercut shoulder line which gives structure to the side view. The wheel arches are strongly emphasised and give reference to quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Horizontal lines at the front and rear convey a real sense of width and presence. The vehicle itself is 4.66 metres long, 1.89 metres wide and 1.66 metres tall meaning it has grown in nearly all dimensions compared tO the previous model. Even so, the unladen weight has been reduced by up to 90kg depending on the engine thanks to a intelligent material mix in the body.
The new Q5 is also top of its class in aerodynamics with the four-cylinder versions attaining a cd figure of 0.30 with the aerodynamically optimised roof. Wind noise is particularly low, and vibration comfort is high. In the Q5 Audi indulges the driver and passengers with the best interior acoustics in its class.
Engines and drivetrain
The new Audi Q5 launches in the UK with a powerful 2.0 TDI engine producing 190PS. Soon after it will be joined by a 2.0 TFSI engine which, through development, has an output of 252PS, yet it returns up to 41.5mpg and only 154g CO2/km. An intensively revised 3.0TDI will be available at a later date which will see output increased to 286PS.
The new quattro drivetrain with ultra technology is fitted as standard for the 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI. This technology disengages the rear-axle when it's not needed and, if necessary, can proactively re-engage it. This new concept increases efficiency without reducing traction or driving dynamics.
Interior
Inside you'll find a lot of space for five people with the Q5's key dimensions surpassing the previous models and its competitors. The horizontally oriented lines continue on the inside and underscore the impression of width and comfort. The new equipment lines concept offer a broad choice of colours and materials. A three-spoke steering wheel features as standard while optional ambient lighting creates a wonderful atmosphere in 30 different colours when it gets dark. The workmanship quality in the new Q5 is uncompromising.The rear seats are split into three segments and, depending on the rear seat position, the basic volume of the luggage compartment ranges from 550 to 610 litres, and increase of 10 litres over the previous model. When the rear bench is folded down this volume increases to 1,550 litres. A power-operated tailgate is fitted as standard to allow easy loading.
Controls and infotainment
Operation of the new Audi Q5 is intuitive and marked by a range of great new features.
Audi virtual cockpit is the first of these and presents excellent graphics on a high-resolution 12.3 inch screen. The driver has the freedom to choose between two views - a classic view with large instruments or a mode which lets the navigation map or lists dominate.
Another fantastic feature is the MMI terminal in the centre console which acts as the main control element. In the top infotainment system, the optional MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and an 8.3-inch display, a touchpad is integrated into the rotary pushbutton. It recognises handwritten entries as well as gestures familiar from consumer electronics such as zooming gestures. If the new Q5 has an automatic transmission, it also has the larger MMI all-in-touch including haptic feedback.
Drivers have the option to connect their smartphone to the vehicles antenna via Audi phone box for optimal reception quality while charging their phone while Audi smartphone interface brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the new Q5.
The new Audi Q5 is due to arrive in the spring of 2017. To find out more or to register your interest please get in touch.
