New Audi Q5 and Q2 to debut in 2016

Audi aims to strengthen its presence in the luxury SUV market with the second gen Q5 and segment pioneering Q2

Audi has confirmed that the company will refresh its model line-up in 2016 with the launch of the second generation Q5 SUV and will expand its model range with the new Q2 compact SUV that will be slotted below the Q3.

The first generation Q5 has been on sale since 2008 and has become a bit long in the tooth over the years in light of newer competition, design and technology. Audi will now be launching the second generation 2016 model that will be more up to date. On the face of it, the new Q5 will get sharper styling cues as seen on the bigger Q7. Angular lines and large panels give the new Q7 a definitive and unmistakable presence, aspects that the new Q5 will cash in on as well.

But that’s not all the new Q5 will share with the new Q7 as both SUVs like the new A4 are underpinned by VW’s MLB 2 modular platform. The new Q5 will continue to be powered by a range of four and six cylinder petrol engines.

The Audi Q3 has been a great success for Audi as a compact luxury SUV that offers good cabin space and a luxurious ride. But Audi seems to think that they can further the compact luxury SUV segment with an even smaller offering in the form of the Q2!

The Q2 is likely to be a three door model that is likely to bear resemblance to the Audi Crosslane Coupe SUV concept that was originally showcased at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The Crosslane concept measures in at 4.21 meters in length which is mid-size SUV territory in India.

The new Q2 is likely to based on the A1’s PQ25 platform that underpins a host of compact cars from the VW group including the Volkswagen Polo, Vento, Skoda Rapid, etc. Expect the Q2 to be powered by anything from a 1.5 litre - 2.0 litre diesel engine and 1.4 litre - 1.8 litre petrol engine.