From concept to production, you caught a glimpse of the new Q5 when Audi introduced its Crossover Cabriolet concept, which we featured in the February 2008 issue of eurotuner Magazine. This month, Audi has finally released official information regarding the new Q5, which is a compact crossover SUV, compared to the full-size Q7. This new SUV will enter a segment several other manufacturers already occupy, including the BMW X3, VW Tiguan, Mercedes GLK and Infinity EX.
With sport and performance in mind, the Q5 was designed for function. It will be offered with a 270hp, 243 lb-ft 3.2 V6 FSI motor and 40:60-split quattro all-wheel drive, along with a six-speed Tiptronic transmission. The quattro driveline can deliver up to 65% of the power to the front axle and a maximum of 85% to the rear axle. The Audi Q5 will also be the first Audi product with Generation 3 MMI and navigation with real-time traffic information.
The dimensions are 15.19ft long and 6.17ft wide. The Audi Q5 is just 5.41ft high, making it sportier than its competitors. The compact SUV sets another benchmark among German competitors with a low drag coefficient of 0.33.The design of the Audi Q5 is in tune with the character of the Audi brand. The front-end is dominated by a large, single-frame grille. Of course, bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights, like the R8 and S5, are available as options.
Viewed from the side, the large 18" forged wheels and rising edges are especially prominent. Topped off with roof rails, the slope of the roof underscores the slim, coupe-like styling. At the rear, the aluminum wraparound tailgate clearly identifies this SUV as a relative to the Q7. The tail lights come with eye-catching LED technology as standard.
The vehicle comfortably accommodates five people in ergonomically designed seats that can be flexibly arranged. The backrests for the rear seats are angle-adjustable and easy to fold down by activating the remote release lever in the luggage compartment. The rear expands from 19.07 to 55.09cuft in volume.The new performance SUV from Audi is precise, spontaneous, safe and comfortable at the same time. Its electronic stabilization program (ESP) has been re-designed and enhanced with innovative functions. A sensor "tells" the ESP if a roof rack has been mounted, causing the Audi Q5's center of gravity to be shifted higher in keeping with the roof load. If a roof rack is present, the ESP engages earlier in the handling limit. Without a roof load, the driver is free to tap the full dynamic potential of the Audi Q5.
The new performance SUV from Audi is rolling off the production line with an audio system with eight speakers. A modular system of components is available for multimedia options - the highest upgrade level features a Bluetooth telephone, DVD drive for navigation, an iPod interface and a top-of-the-line sound system from Bang & Olufsen. The navigation system boasts a high-resolution monitor for new, 3D maps. The hard-disk of the system can also save music files in MP3 format.
On request, the Audi Q5 comes with an advanced parking system with rearview camera and also side assist, which warns of hazards when changing lanes.Additional high-tech extras for the Q5 include keyless access to the vehicle, a large panoramic glass sunroof with additional tilting function, dynamic cornering light system known as Audi adaptive light, and an electric tailgate.
"Don't be the only Euro enthusiast to miss North America's largest automotive convention and party! eurotuner Magazine is awarding one reader an all-access pass to the industry-exclusive SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November. It's free to enter so click here for a chance to win the eurotuner sweepstakes."
CLICK HERE