The design of the new Q5 can hardly be called groundbreaking — the exterior changes look more like a thorough modernization rather than a generational change. The crossover has been moved to the modular MLB architecture, the same one used in the new Q7 and the A4 lineup. The car's dimensions have barely changed: length has grown by 30 mm, height — by 10 mm.
Unlike the exterior, the interior has transformed much more noticeably. The updated steering wheel now features heating, the seats have gained a massage function, and instead of traditional instruments, a 12-inch Virtual cockpit display is installed. The options list now includes matrix headlights and an improved MMI multimedia system with a touchpad and an 8-inch screen.
The new Audi Q5 has received air suspension with adjustable ground clearance. The proprietary Audi drive select system, which allows changing the vehicle's characteristics, has gained additional off-road modes — Lift/Offroad and Allroad.
In the range of petrol engines, there is only one option — a two-liter TFSI with 252 hp. The diesel lineup is wider: the three-liter V6 produces 286 hp and 620 Nm of torque, while the two-liter unit is available in three tuning versions — from 150 to 190 hp.
Among transmissions, a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed S-tronic robot are offered, but for the six-cylinder diesel, an eight-speed automatic is provided.
The assembly of the crossover has been organized at a new plant in Mexico. Sales of the new Q5 are expected to start early next year.
