Audi started updating its line-up with the A5 and will continue to do so with every other model in the line-up throughout the next year. This even includes models that are still relatively young, like the Q5 SUV. The facelift version of the Q5 is expected to go on sale in 2013.
Just like with the other updated models, the Q5 facelift will receive new headlights, a modified front grille, a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes, and new taillights. Minor modifications will also be made on the interior and the car’s overall driving dynamics. These improvements include a new electromechanical steering, new damper settings, and a revised rear suspension.
The current Audi Q5 is only offered with one gasoline engine and two TDI units, so we expect that the facelift model will bring along a few more choices to spark some additional interest. Any engines added will more than likely show up with a considerably improved fuel economy and will be mated to either a manual or an S-tronic transmission.
There’s no question in anybody’s mind that the future of the auto industry hinges on advancements done on alternative technology. Whether its hybrid, electric, or even fuel-cell power, alternative energy is where the future is at.
At the 11th Michelin Challenge Bibendum in Berlin, Germany, Audi presented a vehicle that could potentially reshape the landscape of the company’s direction in the future. In trying to examine the potential and probability of using fuel-cell power as an alternative drivetrain, Audi rolled out the concept Q5 Hybrid Fuel Cell (HFC). The SUV, which is actually in concept guise, was built as a technical study to determine the feasibility of a vehicle running on fuel cells.
In this particular configuration, the car comes with a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell that produces 98 kW, which is about 133 horsepower and is connected to a lithium-ion battery that comes with an energy content of 1.3 kWh. Roll it up together and you have a drivetrain that’s powered by two electric motors that produces a combined peak output of around 127 horsepower and 310 lb/ft of torque with an electronically limited top speed of 103 mph.
Despite its designation as a concept vehicle, the Q5 HFC’s hybrid chassis lends itself to the scenario that sooner than later, a production version may be produced. It’s not so much a question of ’if’ more than it is of ’when’.
When that time comes though is still anyone’s guess. But you can be sure that this won’t be the last vehicle Audi is looking into when it comes to the development of alternative drivetrains.
Audi was sitting pretty at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show with its new Cross Cabriolet Quattro Concept. Being a convertible crossover, the Cross Cabriolet received high marks amongst automotive enthusiasts. Of course, those same enthusiasts were not exactly optimistic that they were going to see this concept ever make it to the production line. Naysayers, move aside. Nissan has recently unveiled the Murano Convertible, so why couldn’t we expect a Q5 Cabrio?
At the concept’s launch, Design Chief of Audi USA, Brit Steve Lewis said: "Such a vehicle has been talked about within the company for some time as no one has ever done a cabriolet SUV before. If there is sufficient demand for around 5,000 units a year it could go into limited production." Back then he claimed we would see the Cabriolet in 2010, but the economic downturn made sure that wasn’t possible. Now, new rumors suggest that the production Q5 Cabrio could arrive in 2013.
A production version will be a two door vehicle, with natural Quattro drive and a range of TDI and TFSI engines. It will also feature a canvas roof.
It was only logical that after BMW released the X5 and the X5M to the market, Audi would eventually bring out more models for their crossover, the Q5. The idea started almost a year ago with details surrounding two more variants of the Q5 - the SQ5 and the RSQ5 - coming out with good projected outputs of 333hp and 408hp, respectively. That idea has certainly catapulted since then with news that Audi has registered the SQ5 and RSQ5 monikers, meaning that the German company has finally decided it has much more to offer to the SUV market.
The current Q5 line-up includes the standard Q5 model and the recently launched Q5 Hybrid Quattro, but the two new and sportier models will most likely attract many more customers. All this means is that the BMW X5 and the X5M may need to start working a bit harder to win over their clientele. However, being that the X5M puts out a rewarding 555hp, we find it a little hard to believe that anyone would opt for the Audi. As of right now, BMW is the clear choice, but we never know what these automakers have up their sleeves. Perhaps Audi will bring out something that is that much more entertaining.
Audi and Stasis Engineering’s attendance at SEMA was memorable for a number of reasons. First, it was the first time Audi has ever participated in the annual aftermarket event. Second, the event gave both companies the unique opportunity to share the stage together with a number of the tuning firm’s new Signature Series collection.
One of the vehicles that was included in this collection is the Audi Q5, an SUV that has been lauded by a number of pundits for being a vehicle that combines a dynamic and sporty exterior with a clean and classy interior, a versatile all-around SUV that fits in nicely to a variety of markets, be it for the sporty and outgoing type or for the weekend family types.
The Q5’s standing in the auto industry made it a perfect vehicle for Stasis Engineering to work their magic on. The challenge then was putting together a tuning package for an SUV that already had a favorable rating among consumers and turn it into something that’s going to attract more positive attention than it already has.
Details after the jump.
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