2017 Audi Q5 revealed in Paris, first details for Australia

Audi used the 2016 Paris Auto Show to reveal the second generation of one their most crucial models, the 2017 Audi Q5. Based on the MLB platform that also underpins the A4, and despite being larger than its predecessor, the new Q5 boasts weight loss claims of up to 80 kg. The all-new Q5 is due to launch in Australia in the second half of 2017.

To watch our video with the new Q5 shot at the Paris Motor Show, click the picture above.

Always at the top of its class for sales figures – 1.6 million of the first generation were built and sold – the new Q5 boasts evolutionary styling combined with significant technological advancements compared to the previous model.

“With the new Q5 we are setting the bar a notch higher. Among the great innovations are the quattro drive system with ultra technology, highly efficient engines, the air suspension with damper control and a comprehensive line-up of infotainment and assistance systems”, said Chairman of the Board of Management at Audi AG, Rupert Stadler.

Just some of the new Q5’s technology includes adaptive cruise control, cross traffic assist, blind-spot monitoring, park assist, road sign recognition, autonomous braking, Matrix LED headlights, traffic jam assist and lane assist – the latter two giving the new Q5 partial autonomy at lower speeds.

The interior of the new Q5 follows similar themes to its A4 and Q7 brothers – a 7.0 inch screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be standard with an 8.0-inch screen featuring as an option, as well as Audi’s 12.3 Virtual Cockpit digital instrument.

When it arrives in Australia, the new Q5 will initially have a choice of three different engines – a 140kW 2.0TDI and 210kW 3.0TDI diesels, and a lone 185kW 2.0TFSI petrol. The lower-powered diesel and petrol come with 7-speed dual clutch automatics, while an 8-speed tiptronic automatic is reserved for the higher-powered diesel.

The popular SQ5 will return later in the model’s lifecycle however, and Audi Sport told Chasing Cars at the Paris Motor Show that an RS Q5 will be produced for this generation with a 330kW petrol engine – perfect for filling those serious performance family motoring cravings.

The new Q5 will be built in a brand new factory in Mexico and we’re expecting similar pricing for the new model – from $60,000 to the $90,000 mark. Whatever the asking cost is however, the new Q5 is bound to shake up the premium mid-size SUV class upon arrival.

Words by Jake Williams.