The Audi Q5 has come in for a mid-cycle update that sees the premium SUV gain stylish new looks and some new lighting technology. One of the most noticeable differences is the signature singleframe grille. That now appears wider than previously but also looks shallower due to the design of the grille’s structure. It’s also partly blanked-off as the engine’s cooling system does not require the whole grille to be open, and limiting the amount of air entering into the engine bay area also helps to improve overall aerodynamics.
Next to the grille are new air intakes with a trapezoidal design that gives a more upright look. This clever technique alters the appearance of the Q5’s front by adding a sense of width and stance. Cleverly, these units also incorporate some of the sensors for the driver assistance systems. A revamp of the LED headlights features a new signature for the daytime running lights.
Audi will now offer OLED (organic light-emitting diodes) lighting for the rear clusters in the Q5. These OLEDs will be distinguishable by a design made up for three tiles, each containing six smaller elements. One of the benefits of this OLED tech is that there can be minuscule gaps between the individual pieces, and their homogenous light coverage results in very sharp lines. Using this type of setup has also enabled Audi’s designers to create different lighting signatures and designs. Audi’s head of development for light innovation, Stephan Berlitz, said: “Looking to the future, digital OLED is therefore the perfect technology for executing personalised light design with a high degree of precision and extensive variability. This technology offers all sorts of opportunities for further development.”
Now the rear light signature can change according to the drive mode that is selected by the driver. An added safety feature is that the OLED lights also use a proximity sensor. When another car approaches within two metres of a stationary Q5 from behind, the OLED segments light up to serve as a visual warning that they are getting too close. Once you pull away from this car, the light elements return to their usual design.
Other changes to the rear of the Audi A5 include the addition of a new trim piece below the four rings on the bootlid, which connects the two rear light clusters. New vent designs in the outer section of the lower bumper add to the sporty look of the Q5 as does the new diffuser section. There will be a wide choice of alloy wheel options available, ranging from 17-inch right up to 21-inches on range-topping models.
The interior of the Audi A5 also comes in for some subtle updates, with a new 10.1-inch freestanding touchscreen display replacing the non-touch sensitive 8.3-inch screen of its predecessor. With the switch to a touchscreen unit it means the trackpad-style control panel that previously occupied the centre console is now redundant and in its place is a new storage cubby.
Updates to the engine offering see the 40 TDI diesel gain a bump in power up to 201bhp from 187bhp. A switch to aluminium for the crankcase saves 20 kilograms, and a further 2.5kg has been saved from the new crankshaft design. Audi will continue to offer mild hybrid electrification that enables the Q5 to coast with its engine off for short periods as well as prolonging the start-stop function at up to 13.7mph.
Audi expects the updated Q5 to go on sale later this year and for a limited time there will also be a special edition called the ‘edition one’ model that is based on the S line exterior and features the black trim package. It will be available in glacier white and myth black along with the new district green and ultra blue colours.
Keyword: Revamped Audi Q5 debuts with a sharper new look