Return of the Q5 — Audi Q5 bookings open in India

The Q5 used to be one of Audi’s bestsellers in India a few years ago, and the new-generation Audi Q5 was unveiled internationally last year too. Given the success of the outgoing model, it was only going to be a matter of time before the new Audi Q5 would arrive on our shores. The all-new Audi Q5 is all set to make a comeback to the Indian luxury SUV segment with refreshed exteriors, upgraded interiors, additional equipment, and wait for it — a petrol engine! This is because Audi does not offer diesels anymore.

The Audi Q5 retains its familiar silhouette, but there are changes to make it look fresher and sharper than before. The vertical-slat grille has now been replaced by an octagonal honeycomb-maze grille, or as Audi likes to call it the ‘Singleframe’ grille, along with the addition of new all-LED headlights. The rear of the Q5 is a familiar sight as well, but it now receives OLED tail lamps for the first time. The front and rear bumpers have been redesigned, and the rear also sports a new diffuser insert. The Q5 also sports 19-inch wheels with double-spoke star alloy wheels.

Unlike the previous generation model which received a diesel, the new Audi Q5 will be powered solely by a 2-litre TFSI petrol engine, which produces 245bhp and 370Nm of torque. With these numbers, the Q5 is capable of maxing out at 240kmph. Audi offers a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with this engine internationally, but it hasn’t said about the transmission for the India-spec Q5.

The Audi Q5 now gets the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus over the outgoing model, along with a 10.1-inch touchscreen MIB infotainment system which replaces the 8.3-inch display, wireless smartphone charging, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Audi Park Assist, a 3D sound system sourced by Bang & Olufsen, and a comfort key with sensors for the bootlid. Additionally, the Q5 also receives quattro all-wheel drive. The Q5 receives adaptive air suspension internationally, but Audi hasn’t clarified whether will it be offered in the Indian-spec Q5.

Now hold your breath there! Audi hasn’t announced prices for the Q5 yet, but you can now book the Q5 for a token amount of Rs 2 lakh. The Audi Q5 will be offered in two variants — Premium Plus, and Technology. Given that it goes up against the Mercedes-Benz GLC 200, BMW X3, and the Volvo XC 60 which has just received an upgrade too, we expect the new Audi Q5 to be priced between Rs 57 to 65 lakh (ex-showroom). Will the Audi Q5 stage a successful comeback? Only time will tell!