Audi Q5 50 TFSI e Unveiled In Europe
The Audi Q5 is adapting to the fast-changing digital landscape by venturing into new technological territory with their successful SUV.
So, it now arrives in European dealerships first after being extensively updated inside and out, with highlights including the latest Audi touch-screen MMI Touch control in the cabin and new next generation digital OLED exterior lighting for top-tier versions as a first in the automotive sector.
We only recently had an upgraded Audi Q5 in Malaysia, the S line 2.0 TFSI Quattro which retails for RM486,223.
Now, this premium segment is quite crowded as there is the The Mercedes GLC 300 4-Matic sells for RM429,800 and the BMW X3 xDrive30i M Sport is priced at RM358,800. Both are local assembled and come with almost equal power delivery as this imported (CBU) Audi Q5 S line.
Interestingly, the fully imported (CBU) all new Lexus NX is RM370,888 for the NX 250 Luxury and more powerful NX 350 F-Sport is RM389,888.
PRESS RELEASE: The new drive concept with this latest Audi Q5 comprises a four-cylinder, 2.0L TFSI turbocharged engine producing 195 kW and 370 Nm of torque. The permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) has a peak electrical output of 105 kW and 350 Nm of torque.
It and the separating clutch are integrated into the seven-speed S tronic transmission, which uses ultra-technology to transfer the drive torque to the quattro drivetrain. The hybrid SUV impresses with a total system output of 220 kW and 450 Nm of torque just above idle.
According to the standard for plug-in hybrid vehicles, fuel consumption ranges from 1.6l/100 km, corresponding to 38 grams CO2 per kilometre.
The SUV’s lithium-ion battery is located under the luggage compartment floor. It stores 14.1 kWh of energy with a voltage of 381 volts. For optimal temperature control, its cooling loop is connected to both the coolant loop for the climate control system and the low-temperature cooling loop into which the electric motor and power electronics are also integrated.
The climate control system uses a highly efficient heat pump that pools the waste heat from the high-voltage components. With 1 kW of electrical energy, it can generate up to 3 kW of thermal heating output. That makes the car more efficient and provides a more comfortable climate for the occupants.
The exterior design
Although the width and height of the midsize SUV remain as before at 1.89 metres and 1.66 metres respectively, it is now 19 millimetres longer at 4.8 metres, primarily due to its new, larger bumpers.
The interior design
Inside, the expansive sweep of the two-section dashboard bisected by its sculpted trim inlay will be familiar to Q5 drivers, as will the freestanding MMI display. Closer inspection will reveal that the monitor itself is now larger, measuring 10.1 inches diagonally across the range, versus either seven inches or 8.3 inches depending on specification in the outgoing model, and that the rotary controller in the centre console which originally acted as the gateway to the MMI functions displayed on the screen is now absent, replaced by a storage compartment.
With the help of the third-generation Modular Infotainment Platform (MIB 3), a powerful new processor offering ten times more computing power than its predecessor, infotainment functions are now literally at the driver’s fingertips via the central touch-screen MMI Touch display, which gives acoustic feedback to acknowledge commands entered manually, and can also process a vast array of everyday instructions given verbally.
The richly detailed navigation mapping delivered by MMI navigation plus appears on the freestanding central screen and also extends for the full length of the 12.3-inch fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit display directly ahead of the driver,
Travellers in the updated Audi Q5 can enjoy its technological gains from the comfort of front sport seats upholstered in Twin Leather in the lead-in Sport model, Alcantara and leather in the S line variant or diamond stitched Fine Nappa leather in the Edition 1 and top flight Vorsprung.
This attention to detail sets the tone for the Vorsprung version as a whole. With features such as electric steering wheel adjustment, a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a head-up display, Audi Phone Box wireless handset charging and Advanced Key access with electric hands-free boot opening, it offers an exceptionally well-rounded and inclusive equipment list.
The running gear
The advanced quattro system works in tandem with conventionally sprung and exceptionally lightweight multilink front and rear suspension in Sport, S line and Edition One versions of the updated Q5. It features in standard form in Sport models, and as a firmer sport set-up in the S line and Edition One models.
Exclusive to Vorsprung versions is an adaptive air suspension system that can vary the ground clearance of the bodyshell in five stages, which makes it an exceptionally good match for the Q5. It can be controlled by the Audi drive select handling system, which also influences the characteristics of several other technical components and forms part of the standard equipment package for all models.
The driver can choose from up to seven profiles, including particularly agile offroad and allroad options where air suspension is fitted.
