What do you do if you have sold almost three million copies of a car model? You make it even better and sell even more, of course. That is exactly what Audi has done with the new Q5 – an medium -sized SUV that has now received a substantial update.
We went to Malaga to test if it lives up to expectations.
New Q5 is not only an updated version of its predecessor, but is based on the Volkswagen Group’s new platform PPC-Premium Platform Combustion that debuted in connection with Audi A5. As the name suggests, it is a premium car with an internal combustion engine.
Under the hood we find a couple of different engine options, where everyone has some form of electrification, either as mild hybrid or charging hybrid.
Audi is investing in diesel in Sweden
The engine options include two gasoline -powered variants: a four -cylinder engine of 204 horsepower and a sharper V6 with 367 horses, called SQ5. But unfortunately, none of these will come to Sweden.
Here we have to settle for a four -cylinder diesel engine of just over 200 horses, as Audi believes that Diesel is still the most in demand here. Later this year, however, the charging hybrids are expected, which is likely to be the real best sellers.
Discreet design that works
Q5 is available in two variants: a classic SUV and a coupe SUV, which Audi calls Sportback. The latter has become popular in Europe but has been more difficult in Sweden, perhaps because it costs almost SEK 20,000 more at the same time as it gives worse rear seat and luggage space.
In terms of design, Q5 is discreet and stylish with soft lines and a modern light ramp at the back. Best color combo? Grenadine Red or Ultra Blue with silvery 21-inch rims, pearl beige interior and walnut wood-pure premium feeling.
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Screens everywhere
Interior, Audi has pressed its latest digital stage – a system with two large screens. The driver display has been simplified compared to previous versions, and the infotainment system is now Android-based.
However, this is barely noticeable, since Audi has modified it properly. The advantage? You can download apps directly in the car and update the system wirelessly.
For those who choose a more well -equipped variant, there is also an extra screen for the passenger. It looks cool, but the question is how long the trend lasts – especially considering that the benefit is limited in relation to the extra cost.
A more practical news, on the other hand, is that Q5 can be equipped with an AI voting assistant linked to chatgpt, which means you can get answers to everything from mathematical problems to existential questions.
Safe and stable – but no shudder
Audi has never built cars for those who want an adrenaline rush behind the wheel, and the new Q5 is no exception. It is stable and predictable – perfect for the family on the way to the mountains.
The diesel engine is effective with a consumption of low 5.9 liters per 100 km, although the sound does not directly impress. Adaptive air suspension is available as an option for SEK 30,000 and is an investment worth making for increased comfort.
But the car is not flawless. The brakes can be difficult to modulate, and the typical Audi shadow of gas at low speeds remains.
For example, when accelerating out of a roundabout, it can take half a second too much before the car answers, which can be frustrating.
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Audi Q5 do exactly what you expect
Audi has not taken any unnecessary risks with the new Q5. This is a car that is exactly what one expects from an Audi: stylish, packed with technology and predictable on the road.
It will continue to sell well, but we can only hope that Audi realizes that SQ5 should be in the Swedish market. Because it does.
First impression of new Audi Q5: 4/5
Engine: 2-liter four, diesel, 204 horsepower, 400 newtons
Transmission: 7-step double clutch box, four-wheel drive
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 7.4 seconds
Top speed: 226 km/h
Weight: 2 030 kg
Dimensions (length/width/height): 4717/1900/1662 mm
Price: From SEK 599 000