Revised Audi Q5 gets new engines 02 | 05 | 2012
FIVE MONTHS BEFORE it enters Scottish showrooms, Audi has released details of its facelifted Q5. In addition to a number of subtle styling tweaks, the mid-life update — which goes on sale in October — also benefits from an upgraded interior, plus a new range of petrol and diesel engines.
The new model gets lightly revised bumpers, grille, headlamp graphics and tailpipes, while inside the cabin there's new trims which aim to provide a higher-quality feel.
Underneath the Q5's stylish looks, the springs and dampers have been tweaked to deliver "improved levels of comfort". Audi has also reworked the steering, replacing the former hydraulic set-up with a new electro-mechanical system.
Audi has seriously boosted the range of powerplants, with five new or upgraded diesel and petrol engines — all featuring stop-start as standard — entering the range.
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There's a revised 3.0TDI V6 producing an extra 5bhp and 59lb/ft at 242bhp and 428lb/ft. The old naturally aspirated 266bhp 3.2-litre V6 has been replaced by a new 268bhp 3.0-litre V6. There's also a new range-topping 3.0TFSI model, which can cover the 0-62mph sprint in 5.9sec.
For the first time, the Q5 also gets a hybrid version. The Q5 Hybrid mates Audi’s older 208bhp 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor developing a peak of 53bhp. Their joint outputs deliver 242bhp, along with 354lb ft of torque.
Perhaps the best news though is Audi will reveal a blisteringly quick new SQ5 at the Le Mans 24-Hours in June. Powered by the 309bhp/479lb ft twin-turbocharged 3.0TDI V6 which has recently been launched in the A6, it'll be good for a 'restricted' 155mph, plus it'll scorch from standstill to 62mph in 5.8secs.
The good news is we'll be at Le Mans to bring not only all the latest news from the race, but first impressions of the new SQ5.
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Jim McGill