The 2021 Audi Q5 is the most important vehicle in the lineup. Yes, there are more stunning models, with more power, advanced technology, and new styling. But, the position of the Q5, as the compact luxury crossover and one of the pioneers in this segment, is making it so precious for the German carmaker. Currently, there are more important projects, such as the Q8 SUV and Q2 debuts in the US. There are still a few vacant spots in the lineup and we can already read rumors about the Q1 and Q9.
The new generation of the vehicle was launched in 2018. In 2021 we will see the first update. The standard edition will be refreshed, and the company will prepare the special edition for the new season. The 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback will be the model with coupe design. The intention is to face its archrivals, BMW and Mercedes, and their X4 and GLC Coupe models.
Spy photos of the new Q5 appeared for the first time. Soon, the company will make it official. The update is not so big, so Audi didn’t use so much camouflage on the new compact crossover. We can see both interior and exterior with minor modifications.
Changes
The new SUV is going through a mid-cycle refresh process and the big redesign is expected in 2022. Until then, the company will update the crossover with minor modifications outside and inside. Spy photos are making it clear that no big things could be expected from the 2021 Audi Q5.
We can assume that grille is about to be larger than before. Rectangular shape and a wider position are enough for the start of a refresh. The company is also using new headlights to make the entire front fascia new and more interesting. Test mules are also showing small updates at the back, with similar touches on bumper and taillights. Fans could also see the new exhaust pipes and the position closer to the middle of the vehicle.
2021 Audi Q5 Interior
Inside the cabin, there won’t be stunning moves. The highlight of the facelift is the new, larger touchscreen display. From what we can hear and see, a 10-inch screen is the center of the infotainment system. All the features and apps will be updated for the upcoming Q5. However, the big revisit of the MMI info-entertaining package is scheduled for 2022. The new 2021 Audi Q5 will be available in three trim levels, as before. The carmaker will add some options to make Prestige, Premium Plus, and base Premium versions more attractive.
2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Coupe-SUV
One of the biggest additions for the new season will be the Sportback edition. The idea is the coupe-crossover that will be competitive with the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC Coupe. However, everything is still just a rumor, although you can find fan arts and concept images on the web. But, Audi is not making anything official.
Experts don’t think it is likely to happen. The German carmaker will shift focus to new nameplates since they recently obtained rights to all Q1-Q9 lineup. Special editions are not the priority since there are still some models to be launched in the foreseeable future, such as Q9 and Q2. The subcompact crossover already exists, but we can find it only in Europe.
Source: Autoblog
Specs and Hybrid
Under the hood of the 2021 Audi Q5 will be the same engines as before. The offer starts with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 248 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. A seven-speed S-Tronic gearbox is forwarding power to all wheels. The famous Quattro system is smart and distributes energy to the axle where you need it the most. On most occasions front axle will move the crossover, but the system will shift 100 percent of power to the rear wheels.
A 3.0-liter V6 engine is optional and gives a boost with 350 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. Like the base unit, it is paired only with the Quattro system and returns 20 mpg combined. The 2021 Audi Q5 might get a special performance version to compete against AMG and M models by its archrivals, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
The TFSI e configuration includes a smaller 2.0 engine tuned to 252 hp and an electric battery with 140 ponies. The total output of the setup is 350 horsepower. The hybrid crossover can go by using only the electric source of power, covering 20 miles.
When Will 2021 Audi Q5 Be Available?
Test mules are out, so the new 2021 Audi Q5 could debut every day. We are pretty sure it will happen soon since there is no heavy camo to hide novelties on the crossover. The company could do it in the last quarter of this season. The price is getting a small boost thanks to the minor changes. Still, the MSRP should stay under $45,000 for the base editions.