Next-generation Audi Q5 unveiled – South African launch date

Audi is continuing with the unveiling of its next-generation portfolio of vehicles, the latest of which is the new Q5.

The mid-size SUV is the first vehicle built on Audi’s new Premium Platform Combustion and boasts a wealth of upgrades over the current model.

The new Q5 is set to arrive on local shores “at the end of 2025,” the German automaker’s domestic subsidiary confirmed to TopAuto.

Similar to the outgoing model, the new Q5 will be available in petrol and diesel guise with a powerful SQ5 derivative positioned as the cream of the crop.

New from the ground up

The third-generation Q5 strikes a more athletic appearance and has grown larger in every aspect.

The singleframe grille on the nose is positioned higher than before and is flanked by vertical air curtains that improve the SUV’s aerodynamics. Below the breather you’ll find a new air intake that accommodates all the sensors for the advanced assistance systems, which lends the nose a wider look.

The restyled LED headlight clusters are angled slightly downward for a more menacing appearance and are connected to the similarly chic rear lamps with a high shoulder line that emphasises the length of the vehicle.

At the rear, the automaker has done all it can to reduce the number of lines so as to achieve an “extremely clear design.”

A new three-dimensional LED light strip now cuts across the entire width of the vehicle and the diffuser is integrated into the raised bumper as an island.

Furthermore, the positioning and shape of the functional tailpipes will depend on the engine, with a double-square tailpipe on the left side of the diffuser employed on all diesel models, and rectangular tailpipes on the right and left for all petrol models.

Completing the cosmetic upgrades is a new selection of alloy wheels ranging between 17 and 21 inches in diameter.

Depending on the market, the Q5 will be offered in basic, advanced, and S line trim levels, each of which will affect its exterior appearance.

Moving inside, the layout of the dashboard follows a horizontal structure and is constructed of high-quality materials that extend like a wing across the entire front fascia. In addition, the interior controls and components now feature an aluminium look and C-clamp frames.

The highlight of the passenger cell is the “digital stage” comprising an 11.9-inch driver’s display and a sizeable 14.5-inch infotainment system situated on the front fascia.

The media hub runs on the latest Android Automotive OS (operating system) that supports over-the-air updates as well as the newest Audi Connect services. As such, apps such as YouTube are available via the store for third-party apps, and integrated directly into the central display without the need for a smartphone.

An artificial intelligence-powered voice assistant is included, too, which can be used to control numerous in-car functions, as are a cooled 15W wireless charging pad in the front center console, and four USB-C ports split between two in the front and two in the rear.

As expected, the Audi also brings a host of driver assistance systems such as rear parking sensors with distance display, cruise control with a speed limiter, lane-departure warning, efficiency assistant, and driver attention and drowsiness assistant.

Buyers can now also order a 10.9-inch front passenger screen for the first time in the Q5.

As a counterbalance to the modern technologies, a so-called soft wrap element runs from door to door across the entire width of the dashboard. This is paired with fabric panels in the door and the armrests to supply a ” homely ambience.”

The materials were selected from a functional point of view, and at the same time ensure clear design differentiation between the various areas in the interior, with comfort-oriented areas emphasized by generous surfaces and soft materials.

The aerodynamics and aeroacoustics of the new Q5 have also been optimised for higher levels of comfort.

This was achieved through a clad underbody and aerodynamically designed front and rear sections that create as little air turbulence as possible.

Standard acoustic glazing on the windshield further aids in reducing outside disturbances.

The new Q5 also boasts a fully adjustable rear bench that can be moved lengthways and tilted for improved leg room or boot space, whichever is the most pressing in the given moment.

Other practicality enhancements encompass a larger storage compartment under the center armrest, as well as numerous smaller storage areas for sunglasses, keys, and other everyday items.

Under the hood, the new Q5 is equipped with one of three powertrains, all boasting a seven-speed automatic gearbox and 48V mild-hybrid tech.

The entry-level option is a 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol with 150kW and 340Nm on tap, which is channeled to the front wheels as standard. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) quattro option will be available at an additional cost.

The mid-spec model sees a 2.0-litre, turbo-diesel mill putting out 150kW and 400Nm, and it is exclusively sold in AWD.

At the top of the line-up sits the SQ5 sporting a 3.0-litre, V6, turbocharged block sending a respectable 270kW and 550Nm to all four corners.

The 48V mild-hybrid system then contributes an additional 18kW of boost during acceleration for a short period in each guise of the new Q5.

Additionally, it aids in reducing fuel usage through brake energy recuperation and fully electric driving for short distances.

It also enables the use of an electrically driven airconditioning compressor, which keeps the climate control system fully operational even when the combustion engine is switched off.

“Later in the lifecycle of the new Audi Q5, plug-in hybrids with a large battery and external charging option will also follow,” said Audi.