What's the news?
Audi's new Q5 SUV has been unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and it's expected to become one of the biggest selling four-ringed cars ever when it hits dealerships next year.
"The first Audi Q5 was for many years the world's best-selling SUV in its class. It was no easy task to design its successor, but that is precisely why it is so very exciting," says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of Audi. "With the new Q5 we are setting the bar a notch higher. Among the great innovations are the quattro drive system with ultra technology, highly efficient engines, the air suspension with damper control and a comprehensive line-up of infotainment and assistance systems."
Around 90kg lighter than the old Q5, thanks to a shift to the new MLB platform (also under the A4 and the Q7) the Q5 will also now be available in front-wheel drive for the first time. It will also come with the option of air suspension, catching the Q5 up with the Mercedes-Benz GLC and its optional air springs.
The Audi Q5 will launch in Ireland with a choice of 14 different exterior colours and five engines: four TDI diesels and one TFSI petrol. Audi engineers have managed to add more power, while reducing fuel consumption across the board. The 2.0 TDI engines have up to a 27hp increase in power with outputs of 150hp, 163hp and 190hp, and are particularly efficient. There will eventually be a twin-turbo 2.0 TDI with 240hp, as well as a V6 diesel option. There will also be ultra-fast SQ5 and RS Q5 versions, but those are for a later date.
Depending on the rear seat position, the basic volume of the luggage compartment ranges from 550- to 610 litres, 10 litres more than in the previous model. When the rear bench is folded down, this increases to 1,550 litres. Cargo loading is simplified by a variably folding mat as standard, standard sensor control of the power tailgate and manual lowering of the body via the optional air suspension.
Inside there's plenty of tech, including new seven-inch or 8.3-inch infotainment screens and the option of Audi's 'Virtual Cockpit' digital instrument display. All models will come with internet connectivity too, and a wifi hotspot will be an option.