The exterior design: Audi Q design language now even more distinctive
The strong Q identity characterises the exterior of the Audi Q5 with its expression of power, robustness and safety. In executing the exterior update, Audi designers further emphasised this look and feel with a series of distinctive details. The octagonal Singleframe is now shallower and appears wider than before. The side air intakes have grown in height and are now structured by trapezoidal insets. The upper section of the LED headlamps features a new signature for the daytime running lights. Viewed from the side, the Q5 now has a lighter look with greater ground clearance thanks to the redesigned sill insert. At the rear end is a new trim element between the light clusters and a new diffusor insert with a horizontal fin.
The interior design: a light touch and first-class quality
The horizontal emphasis of the interior design conveys a feeling of space and lightness. The sculptural, elegant sweep of the trim inlay separates the lower and upper sections of the dashboard, with the focal point formed by the new freestanding MMI touch display with acoustic feedback. The previous rotary/push control on the centre-tunnel console is absent, its place now occupied by a storage cubby.
World first: digital OLED technology in the rear lights of the Audi Q5
Next-generation OLED lighting technology is available for the first time ever in the modified Q5. OLEDs are extremely efficient organic light-emitting diodes that generate a homogenous light surface. The OLED rear light is split into three tiles of six segments each, which enables Audi designers and developers to create different light designs and signatures from a single item of hardware.
Spacious and variable: dimensions and interior space
At 4.68 metres, the redesigned Audi Q5 is now 19 millimetres longer – due primarily to its larger bumpers. Its width (excl. mirrors) of 1.89 metres and height of 1.66 metres remain unchanged. The long wheelbase of 2.82 metres facilitates spacious interior proportions. Thanks to its intelligent material mix, the Q5 has one of the lightest bodyshells in the segment. Refined aero acoustics make for an exceptionally quiet interior.
Driveline: powerful performance, low emissions
The upgraded SUV will likely arrive in New Zealand with TDI & TFSI engine variants. All models will sport a mild hybrid system (MHEV) which contributes to the low fuel consumption. A belt-driven starter/generator (BSG) supplies the 12-volt vehicle electrical system, which incorporates a compact lithium-ion battery. The BSG recuperates braking energy and stores it in the battery. The MHEV system enables the Audi Q5 to coast with the engine off, and allows for start-stop mode at speeds below 22 km/h.
Driver assistance systems: Vorsprung in safety and comfort
The new Q5 also comes with a comprehensive set of assistance systems. The Audi pre sense city system helps avoid collisions with road users in front of the vehicle or mitigate their consequences. The turn assist, collision avoidance assist and exit warning systems also contribute to overall safety. Adaptive cruise assist can largely relieve the driver of accelerating, braking and lane-keeping maneuvers for long periods, while predictive efficiency assist supports an anticipatory driving style and lowers fuel consumption.
“We are looking forward to welcoming this facelift model to the Audi New Zealand Q range next year. Audi Q models are quintessential for the Kiwi lifestyle with their size and Audi signature quattro technology.” said Dean Sheed, General Manager, Audi New Zealand. “Since the launch of the previous generation in 2017, we have seen close to 1,000 Q5’s sold to New Zealanders. With the new design language and technology featured in the new Audi Q5, we have no doubt it will continue to be a leading model for us.” Sheed added.
The Audi Q5 is built at the San José Chiapa plant in Mexico. It’s expected to arrive in New Zealand quarter 1 2021. Price and specifications will be released later this year.