Audi reveals 2017 Q5 29 | 09 | 2016

    AUDI HAS LIFTED the wraps from its all-new Q5 which will enter Scottish showrooms early in 2017. Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, the SUV will go head-to-head with the likes of the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC.

    Engineered from scratch to reduce weight, and sitting on a core platform which closely resembles the latest A4 saloon, the new Q5 tips the scales as much as 100kg lighter than the previous model, which originally entered showrooms in 2008.

    Utilising VW Group's MLB platform — already used by the A4 and the larger Q7 (Roadtest — Audi Q7 3.0TDI quattro) — the new Q5 is close to the old model in size, but incorporates better packaging to improve interior space.

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    Externally the newcomer gains a more rugged look, aimed at strengthening the car’s off-road credentials. Inside the cabin, buyers will be able to opt for Audi’s Virtual Cockpit display, which is already in use on a wide variety of models.

    There will also be the choice of two different infotainment screens. The standard car gets a 7.0in free-standing screen, while range-topping models will get a larger 8.3in screen. The system is controlled via a rotary dial and touch pad.

    Power for the new Q5 will come from a range of four-cylinder and V6 petrol and diesel engines; the V6s are part of a new generation of engines jointly developed between Audi and Porsche.

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    Those keen on all things green will be attracted by the fact a plug-in hybrid version of the Q5 is also planned. This will feature a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine working in combination with an electric motor: expect an all-electric range of 31 miles.

    In complete contrast, the range will also include performance-oriented options, with both SQ5 and RS Q5 versions arriving later. While the SQ5 will feature a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine delivering around 325bhp, the RS Q5 is expected to get close to 500bhp from its twin-turbocharged version of the same engine.

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    As is the case with the current range of Q5s, buyers will also have the choice of rear and four-wheel drive, and between six-speed manual, seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearboxes.

    Optional air suspension will also be offered — including a self-levelling feature borrowed from the Q7 — in a bid to improve its ride and enhance its towing ability.

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    Not surprisingly, Audi has yet to confirm prices for the new Q5, but it’s expected it will carry a significant premium over the current car, which starts at £32,580.

    Related: Audi unveils new TT RS

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    Jim McGill

     

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