Audi has promised to expand its current range of 27 models to around 40 by 2012 – a huge undertaking in just four years; hence we can expect new Audis to come thick and fast to the market. The Beijing motor show saw one such launch this weekend, with the unveiling of the new Audi Q5. As the name suggests, the Q5 is a more compact version of the heavyweight SUV, the Q7.

Measuring 4.63m in length by 1.88m wide and just 1.65m in height, the Q5 has what Audi calls a ‘more purposeful stance’ than its SUV competitors (BMW X3 being the first to leap to mind). The stance and styling reflect the marque’s aim to bill the Q5 as a ‘sportier’ model than others in its class. Meanwhile, the Audi’s wheelbase of 2.81m is the longest in the segment, which should mean a relatively roomy five-seat interior, and the Q5 also boasts the class’s lowest drag coefficient – just 0.33.



An initial range of one petrol and two diesel engines – 2.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI and 237bhp V6 3.0 TDI – sees power transferred by either six-speed manual (for the 2.0 TDI), or twin-clutch, seven-speed ‘S tronic’ transmission. Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard throughout the range.



The Q5 is due to reach the UK by the end of the year, bearing a price tag upwards of £30,000.



Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photos: Audi