Audi Q5 and SQ5 2025: The Evolution of Power and Luxury – A Comprehensive Look at the New Models with Up to 367 HP

The upcoming 2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 models make their entrance boasting up to 367 horsepower. They bring along an advanced super-cockpit, a thrifty engine shared with the A5, options for plug-in hybrids, and an impending Sportback version. Admirers of Audi's signature four rings can rejoice as a fresh Audi Q5 hits the market. Since its initial launch in 2008, the Q5 has seen an impressive 2.6 million units sold. The original model, with 1.6 million units delivered, was far more popular than its successor, which has been around since 2016 and, by now, seems quite outdated. A much-needed update is on the horizon.

The third generation may still bear a resemblance to the Q5 on the exterior, but otherwise, it's undergone a comprehensive overhaul. Let's take a closer look at what the folks in Ingolstadt have come up with to steal the thunder from the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC.

Photo Gallery: Audi Q5 (2024)

Exterior

The new Q5, much like the recently unveiled A5, is built on what’s known as the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). The era of Audi's mid-size SUV exhibiting a conservative and functional design has been definitively left behind. The latest model presents a more assertive and angular look as it faces the world. Audi itself describes the vehicle as having a stronger SUV presence and more pronounced musculature. The design elements have been noticeably elevated – the headlights, shoulder line, and taillights, with the latter featuring the now customary continuous light strip.

As enthusiasts of Audi may be aware, lighting design is currently held in high regard by those in Ingolstadt. The latest Matrix-LED headlights are comprised of 15 adjustable segments that enable eight distinct lighting patterns. The rear lights take it a step further with the introduction of the digital OLED taillights 2.0. We've already witnessed this advanced rear-lighting technology on models such as the A5/S5 and the A6 e-tron. Now, this dynamic lighting feature is making its way into the Q5 model.

Upcoming Model: Audi Q5, set to release in

Significance: The light display is capable of movement, even while the vehicle is in motion. To achieve this, six OLED panels comprising 266 segments each, utilize a specially crafted algorithm to refresh the image several times per second.

Additionally, Audi is introducing a projection light feature in the rear spoiler for the first time in Europe, which casts an image onto the rear window, effectively enlarging the area of the brake light. By the way, it's only visible to the drivers following the car. The driver themselves won't notice it when looking in the rearview mirror. However, all these lighting tricks come at an extra cost.

There is no additional charge for the dimensions which include a length of 4,717 mm, a width of 1,900 mm, a height of 1,651 mm, and a wheelbase measuring 2,820 mm. Compared to its predecessor, the new Q5 has increased by approximately 3.5 centimeters in length, while the other measurements remain almost the same.

Upcoming 2024 Models of Audi Q5 and SQ5

Customers have three different exterior options to select from: standard, Advanced, and S line. Wheel sizes range from 17 inches to a substantial 21 inches. The S line and S models come standard with 19-inch wheels. Additionally, there are optional aerodynamically optimized wheels available in sizes from 17 to 19 inches.

Powertrains

In the realm of engines, the clear link to the latest A5 is undeniable. Audi's latest fuel-efficient engines equipped with the so-called MHEV Plus technology are almost on par with full hybrids.

The updated 2.0 TFSI engine with 204 horsepower, the well-known 2.0 TDI also with 204 horsepower, and the new 3.0 V6 TFSI with 367 horsepower found in the SQ5 are all equipped with a 48-volt lithium iron phosphate battery that has a capacity of 1.7 kWh. They also include a belt-driven starter-generator, as well as a newly designed drive-train generator, essentially an electric motor, that is positioned directly on the transmission's output shaft. This latter component can boost up to 18 kW and can regenerate up to 25 kW of energy.

Upcoming Audi Q5 Model Set to Release in 202

Maneuvering and parking are entirely electric-powered. The electric assist remains active up to speeds of around 130 km/h. The use of electric driving is intended for slower urban speeds, in steady-flowing traffic such as on rural roads, and also when approaching an upcoming town.

All engines are connected to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, with the four-cylinder gasoline model also available with front-wheel drive. In 2025, two plug-in hybrids will be introduced, built upon the 2.0-liter gasoline engine. They will generate 299 and 367 horsepower and, as of the current status, will offer an electric range of over 80 kilometers, an increase from the previous Q5's 60 kilometers.

Chassis

Audi aims to equip the latest Q5 with a five-link front and rear axle system designed to achieve a "largely neutral driving experience." Furthermore, the enhanced chassis and steering calibration are expected to result in a "noticeable increase in comfort."

The standard version of the car comes equipped with a steel suspension system and progressive steering. However, there is an option to choose a sport suspension that includes passive FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) dampers and a more responsive front axle. The FSD technology primarily minimizes damping at higher frequencies, like driving on cobblestone roads, while maintaining substantial damping at lower frequencies, which occur during lane changes or when taking corners. This sport suspension is a standard feature in the SQ5 model.

The third choice available is an adaptive air suspension system. This version is designed to markedly improve the differentiation between the comfort and sport settings compared to the previous model. In the "Lift" setting, it can elevate up to 45 mm, while in the "Offroad" setting, it raises 30 mm. Conversely, in the "Dynamic" mode, it lowers by 15 mm.

Interior

The concepts behind the redesign featuring the OLED curved screen (11.9 inches for the instrument panel and 14.5 inches for the infotainment system) along with the optional 10.9-inch screen for the passenger side are familiar from the A5. For the latest Q5, the dashboard design has been slightly adapted to fit the SUV style, yet largely maintains its recent design direction.

Alright, the new interior design is certainly appealing in this context as well. At first glance, the interior quality of the Q5 seems to be just as impressive as that of the A5.

Upcoming 2024 Model of Audi Q5

The entertainment system operates on Android Automotive OS. Content updates are delivered through Over-the-Air technology. This ensures Audi connect services are always current. Apps such as YouTube are integrated within the MMI, eliminating the need for a smartphone to access them.

The new head-up display features a display area that is 85 percent larger than the previous model and now includes steering wheel controls. The latest Audi Assistant now comes with a unique avatar and employs ChatGPT technology to respond to passengers' inquiries and requests.

For an additional fee, a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system featuring a 685-watt amplifier and 16 speakers can be installed for you, which includes Vehicle Noise Compensation (VNC) to counteract distracting interior noises.

Audi officials frequently bring up the new interactive light feature – a lighting strip positioned between the dashboard and the windshield. It's not just for show, as it can display a variety of useful information such as the battery charge level, turn signal indicators, or alerts for traffic or objects when opening the door.

Upcoming Audi Q5 Model Set for 2024 Release

During an initial brief seating test, it was observed that the rear seating area offers quite a spacious environment. The makers from Ingolstadt proudly highlight the adjustable rear seat feature. The trunk space ranges from 520 to 1,473 liters, a slight change from its predecessor which offered up to 1,520 liters. However, the improvement lies in the lower internal loading edge, designed to simplify the loading and unloading process. Additionally, the luggage compartment cover can now be stored under the floor of the trunk.

Launch Date and Pricing

The Q5 and SQ5 will be available at dealerships from the first quarter of 2025, with orders being taken now. The primary markets for these models are North America, accounting for 44%, and Europe at 35%. Pricing begins at 52,300 Euros for the 204 horsepower gasoline model with front-wheel drive, while the all-wheel-drive version starts at 54,650 Euros.

If you're looking to purchase the diesel model with 204 horsepower, it'll cost you no less than 57,100 euros. As for the SQ5 featuring a 367 horsepower V6, it starts at 82,900 euros. Expect a Q5 Sportback to hit the market about half a year after its initial launch.

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Photo Gallery: Audi Q5 (2024)

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