● New Q5 follows A3 to market● All new Audis from ’26 are EVs
Richard Ingram Richard_Ingram@autovia.co.uk@rsp_ingram
EXCLUSIVE IMAGE
ALONGSIDE the A3 (Page 6) an all-new, petrol-powered Q5 SUV will headline a deluge of new Audis due before the end of 2025. Spanning nine distinct models and a variety of bodystyles, the German maker will look to cover every corner of the market with an increasingly diverse line-up.
Previewed by our exclusive main image, the third-generation Q5 will get a set of subtle styling tweaks, including a wider grille and slimmer headlights. We’ll see the implementation of Audi’s two-dimensional four-ring logo on the front and rear, but the updated model is expected to remain a recognisable part of the Q5 family, rather than introducing a dramatic redesign.
It’s inside where we’re likely to see the biggest departure from the old car. The Mk3 Q5 is expected to lift its cabin layout from the forthcoming Q6 e-tron (due to be revealed in full on 18 March) meaning a dual-screen layout for the infotainment and digital instrument cluster, plus an additional display ahead of the passenger. This third screen will come with an ‘active privacy mode’ to prevent the driver from being distracted at the wheel.
Other tech highlights for the new Q5 are likely to include an augmented-reality head-up display, plus a self-learning AI voice assistant. Safety will be paramount, of course, with the new SUV utilising Audi’s full suite of assistance systems and semi-autonomous drive functions.
Designed to appeal to existing Q5 customers as well as those not yet ready to make the switch to a full EV, the upcoming model will sit on Audi’s new PPC (Premium Platform Combustion) architecture. This set-up will also underpin the brand’s successor to the A4, which will be badged A5 when it arrives in the summer.
As such, and in keeping with Audi’s naming structure, the Q5 (and A5) will continue to be offered with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains – the last of which will most likely have a zero-emission range in excess of 60 miles. That’ll help keep it competitive, although it’ll need an even bigger battery to match the quoted 80-mile range of the latest Mercedes GLC 300 e hybrid.
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