Second-generation Audi Q5 India launch date revealed

Come 2018, and the mid-size luxury SUV space will get a lot more competitive.

Audi has confirmed that the all-new Q5 will arrive in India on January 18, 2018. Audi had axed the outgoing Q5 in India after the GST norms came into effect.

The all-new Q5 is the second-generation model of Audi’s popular mid-size luxury SUV. It has already been spied testing in India on multiple occasions. Globally unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the new Q5 is larger than its predecessor in terms of dimensions but is up to 90kg lighter.

The second-gen Q5 sports all the hallmark elements of Audi’s latest family design language in terms of sleeker design cues that give the car a very clean and uncluttered look - and resembles the larger Q7 to quite some extent. The signature Audi single frame grille dominates the front profile, while the angular daytime running LED elements in the headlamps is yet another cool feature. The rear tail lights can also be specified with optional dynamic indicator LEDs.

The cabin of the new Audi Q5, like its exterior, adopts an uncluttered approach with straight lines and neat design. Space is claimed to have gone up versus the older model. Speaking of optional equipment - the second-gen Q5, globally, can be specified with a virtual cockpit, ambient lighting, MMI navigation plus and hands free tailgate operation.

While Audi has not disclosed any powertrain details as yet, it is quite likely the bread and butter variant of the Q5 will be driven by a 187bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine. Furthermore, we can expect Audi to offer the 2.0-litre, 249bhp turbo-petrol as well - the very same engine that debuted on the Q7 recently. An 8-speed automatic will be the only gearbox option, and Quattro all wheel drive will be a standard affair across the new Q5 range.

Expected to be priced between Rs. 48 lakh - 52 lakh,the second-gen Audi Q5 will compete in India with the new Volvo XC60, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and BMW X3.