Audi Q5 SUV and Sportback e-hybrid: new plug-in hybrids travel up to 100 kilometres on electricity

Audi has expanded the new Q5 generation: in addition to the models with MHEV plus internal combustion engine technology, the regular Q5 and the Q5 Sportback model receive plug-in hybrid powertrains (PHEV). Both series have a dual-clutch transmission and quattro ultra all-wheel drive.

Here's What We Know

The Audi Q5 SUV e-hybrid quattro and the Audi Q5 Sportback e-hybrid quattro are available in two power options: 220 kW and 270 kW.

The cars are powered by a 185 kW 2.0 TFSI petrol engine and an electric motor. In the 270 kW version, the Q5 and Q5 Sportback can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. The 220 kW version can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h there and there.

One of the innovations is the high-voltage battery. In the Q5 e-hybrid, the cells are arranged in two layers, one on top of the other. Audi has increased the nominal battery capacity to 25.9 kWh (20.7 kWh available), about 45 per cent more than its predecessor. The maximum AC charging capacity is 11 kW. If the battery is fully discharged, it takes 2.5 hours to charge to 100 per cent.

Two modes of operation are available: 'EV' and 'hybrid'. In EV mode, the SUV and Sportback run solely on electricity. When driving in hybrid mode, the control system maintains a certain charge level to store enough electricity for later use. In addition to the automatic hybrid mode, the desired charge level can now for the first time be individually selected using a digital slider.

Audi has also increased the efficiency of regenerative braking. The degree of traction regeneration in EV mode can be adjusted in three different levels via paddles on the steering wheel.

Both models receive extended basic equipment. The 220 kW version includes the S sport suspension and three-zone automatic climate control. The top-of-the-range 270 kW version is additionally equipped with LED plus headlights and LED pro tail lights. The standard MMI experience plus multimedia system features the Audi app shop, smartphone interface and is complemented by a Hi-Fi audio system.

All models get the S line interior package with sports seats in a combination of leather and faux leather in black, 19-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers. A practical feature is the fully adjustable rear row of seats, which can be shifted in length and the backrest angle can be changed.

In Germany, the Audi Q5 SUV e-hybrid quattro 220 kW costs from 63,400 euros. The Sportback version will cost from 65,900 euros. The top models with 270 kW cost 71,800 euros for the SUV and 74,300 euros for the Sportback.

The cars are manufactured in Mexico at the San Jose Chiapa plant. Order intake in Europe will begin in mid-June 2025, with first deliveries scheduled for the third quarter.

Source: Audi