Americans buy 44% of the Audi Q5’s sold annually around the world. Europe buys another 35%. When two similar markets vote for your bestseller in such numbers, it’s important to give them better versions of what they want. So when we say the Audi Q5 is all new, we mean Audi brought together entirely new ingredients to improve the old recipe. It starts with the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture that Audi developed, a further iteration of the MLB Evo platform, the second generation Question 5 seated, renamed to complement the Premium Platform Electric used by the new A6 E-Tron. Audi hasn’t provided dimensions, so we don’t expect any significant changes to the vehicle’s footprint or interior space.
On top of that, there are sharper looks compared to the soft shapes of the first two generations of the Q5, unsurprisingly influenced by the 2025 A5 which also uses PPC. Narrow, angular headlights anchor the corners of a wide single-frame grille, while a lower intake below the grille connects the side intakes and acts as a sort of cradle in the front fascia. It’s a bolder take on the Q5’s current looks. At the rear, the ever-popular light bar runs across the tailgate to slim taillights. Elsewhere, the 266 OLED elements grouped into six panels that form these lights can send signals to drivers in the back. At the top of the tailgate, the CHMSL reflects off the spoiler in the backlighting, creating a larger brake light image to attract the attention of those standing behind you.
Inside, new sustainable fabrics and textiles are said to improve the quality of the interior. The Virtual Cockpit is no more, with Audi merging the instrument cluster screen and infotainment screen into a single panel. So yes, we’re still talking about digital gauges, but the combination is now called the Digital Stage, which marries an 11.9-inch instrument screen with a 14.5-inch center display. An optional head-up display for the driver covers an area 85 percent larger than the current HUD, while an optional 10.9-inch screen for the passenger creates a true co-pilot situation, with the third display providing navigation and media controls. A cooled wireless charging tray keeps your phone charging, with four USB ports, including one powerful enough to power a laptop battery.
Based on Audi’s European specs, engines for our market should get a little sweetening. The base turbocharged 2.0-liter makes 201 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque, up 15 lb-ft. over the current mill. The SQ5 sticks with the 3.0-liter V6, but makes 362 hp and 406 lb-ft, up 47 lb-ft over the current Q5. Overseas, every engine not part of the PHEV lineup will come with mild-hybrid technology capable of 24-hp bursts. Audi says all models will have a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission at launch, meaning the SQ5 will ditch its eight-speed torque-converter Tiptronic transmission. In Europe and other markets, the third launch engine will be a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel.
New steering and suspension provide more comfort and dynamic sharpness. Steel springs are again standard, air springs and adaptive dampers are an option. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 21 inches, depending on the market.
Order books are now open in Europe. We expect the Q5 to arrive early next year, followed by other variants such as the plug-in hybrid and Sportback. US pricing will be announced closer to launch.