First-gen Q5 that arrived on our shore back in 2009
Happenings

New Q5 Launched At Suntec Plaza

BY Azfar Hashim

Audi claims their new SUV is setting the standard in its segment, and here are some reasons why...

At 4.66-meters long, 1.89-meters wide and 1.66-meters tall, with a 2.82-meter wheelbase, the new Q5 has grown in nearly all of its dimensions compared to its predecessor; despite that however, the unladen weight was reduced by up to 90 kg. Steel with maximum tensile strength and aluminum then form an intelligent material mix in the body.

First-gen Q5 that arrived on our shore back in 2009

First-gen Q5 that arrived on our shore back in 2009

“The first Audi Q5 was, for many years, the world’s best-selling SUV in its class. It was no easy task to design its successor, but that is precisely why it is so very exciting,” says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management at Audi AG.

Interior wise it offers a lot of space for five persons, again, surpassing the previous model. At the same time, it also saw an improvement in boot capacity - there are 10-litres more now, and when the rear bench is folded down, exposes 1,550-litres worth of space.

The MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and an 8.3-inch display, a large MMI all-in-one MMI touchpad with haptic feedback is integrated into the rotary pushbutton. First seen in the A8, it recognizes handwritten entries as well as gestures such as zooming gestures.

Jeff Mannering, Audi Singapore's MD, at yesterday's launch

Jeff Mannering, Audi Singapore's MD, at yesterday's launch

This new Q5 also sees the implementation of the new quattro with 'ultra technology'. A standard equipment for the 2.0 TFSI with 252 hp, the only variant available locally for now, it disengages the rear-axle drive whenever it is not needed, and if necessary, it can proactively re-engage it. Thanks to this new concept, efficiency is boosted without reducing traction or driving dynamics. Wheel-selective torque control is also standard for the Singapore specific Q5 - this software, according to Audi, delivers dynamic, precise and controllable driving experience.

Another new item is the newly developed five-link suspensions and also the new electromechanical power steering system. Dynamic steering is available as an option; it varies its ratio according to the driving speed and steering angle.

The Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro retails for $239,700 with COE and after CEVS rebate.

Watch this space for our review.