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Audi is currently working on a new generation of the Q5, which is said to make its way onto the market in 2017, with a new chassis, new look and new engines. New technologies that have been added to the ’15 Audi Q7 will eventually make their way into the future Q5, which will be riding on the MLB architecture, underpinning the new Audi A4 generation.
The new Q5’s curb weight will be reduced by 220 lbs., which should be reflected in better fuel economy and handling. As far as the engine lineup goes, this will consist of four- and six-cylinder units, but at first, a plug-in hybrid will be offered. This should be named the “e-quattro,” and it will mix the hybrid technology with four-wheel drive. The electric-only range will stand at approximately 30 miles in this version.
The best-sellers will remain the traditional-powered versions, such as the 2.0L TDI. Two outputs will become available for the 3.0L V6 diesel, one for the regular Q5 and one for the SQ5. After the launch of the new Q5, the “Q” family will be expanded with a Q6, which should be a more practical model, similar to a seven-seat MPV. The new Q5 is said to be launched in the middle of 2016.
A SEMA Measuring Session featuring the ’18 Audi Q5 will be held April 12–13, 2016. Stay tuned to SEMA eNews for registration information in the coming weeks.
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Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde