Say Hello to the 2018 Audi Q5

MANILA: The German automaker has recently updated its Q-lineup by introducing the 2018 Audi Q5 in the local market. The updated SUV made its global debut at this year’s Paris Motor Show and now it is finally available in the Philippines. The all-new Audi Q5 is launched by the PGA Cars INC, at the Manila Polo Club in Makati.

The updated Q5 is sleeker and advanced than its predecessor which reflects an evolutionary design coupled with a host of new technologies. The design is now sportier compared to the outgoing model and the front features new Singleframe hexagonal grille which has now become a part of all the updated models of the Audi. The headlights are also tweaked with the inclusion of LED lights. The brand has upgraded to the Matrix LEDs that result in an improved night time visibility.

The side profile is quite similar to the previous version with wide wheel arches being prominent along with low-slung greenhouse tapers around the C-pillar. At the back, LED lighting is present with rear diffuser positioned between the dual exhaust pipes. The new SUV is 90Kg lighter than the previous versions. Kudos to the high-tensile strength steel and aluminum. The dimensions of the 2018 Q5 reads as 4660 mm long, 1660 mm tall and 1890 mm wide with a wheelbase resting at 2820 mm.

The cabin is also improved in terms of space and ergonomics. The boot offers up to 1550 liters space with all seats down. In terms of equipment, it gets a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit system and an 8.3-inch touch screen MMI infotainment system with navigation. The updated Q5 also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MMI system can be operated through voice, gesture, and a haptic feedback touchpad.

Under the hood, the 2018 Q5 gets a 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder turbo-diesel unit that delivers a maximum power output of 190 PS along with a peak torque of 400 Nm. The petrol unit is a 2.0-litre TFSI four-cylinder that has the potential of delivering a maximum power output of 252 PS and peak torque of 370 Nm. The acceleration of the new Q5 from 0-100 kmph varies between 6.3 and 7.02 seconds and it manages to clock a top speed of 237 kmph. Both the engine units are mated to a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission.

The updated Q5 is available in Design, Premium, and S line variants with base variant holding a price tag of Php 4.9 million.