The Audi Q5 facelift finally has a launch date in India – November 23. The Q5 has been missing from Audi’s line-up in India since April last year, when it was discontinued as the brand transitioned into the BS6 norms. However, it is making a comeback in a facelifted avatar and as a petrol-only SUV. Audi has already started taking bookings for the Audi Q5 facelift for a token amount of Rs 2 lakh – either on Audi’s website or at its dealerships. The facelifted Audi Q5 was unveiled globally in June last year.
- Audi Q5 facelift to be powered by 249hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine
- Will be offered in two trims – Premium Plus and Technology
- Rivals the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3 and Volvo XC60
2021 Audi Q5 facelift: what's new?
Exterior cosmetic updates on the new Q5 are subtle, but they add up to give the SUV a much fresher look. Up front, the Q5 gets a larger and wider hexagonal grille with vertical chrome strips. It also loses the bezel that connected it to the headlamps. Speaking of which, the headlamps, too, have been redesigned with new inserts and LED light signature. The front bumper looks more chiseled with redesigned side intakes and new brushed aluminium inserts.
In profile, the updated Q5 rides on larger 19-inch ‘S-design’ alloy wheels. At the rear, the LED lights have been redesigned and are now connected with a brushed aluminium strip. The rear bumper, too, has been reworked for a sportier look.
On the inside, the updates are minimal, but the focus clearly is on technology. The central screen has been upsized from the older 8.3-inch unit (with a rotary dial setup) to a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen. It runs Audi’s new MIB 3 infotainment system that is said to be 10 times faster than its predecessor. The Q5 also gets connected car tech and as a bonus, Amazon’s Alexa platform too.
Additionally, it will also feature new piano black inserts, Virtual Cockpit Plus (digital instrument cluster), wireless charger, a B&O Premium 3D Sound System and Audi’s Park assist. Thankfully, Audi has retained physical buttons and dials for the climate control on the new Q5. On the safety front, the new Q5 will come with eight airbags, including rear-side airbags, ABS with EBD and traction control.
Audi Q5 facelift: powertrain options
Under the hood, the Q5 facelift will be powered by the same 249hp, 370Nm, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-petrol TFSI engine that has been updated to comply with BS6 norms. This engine is also offered on the A6 in India, although in a slightly different state of tune. The engine will be mated to a 7-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch gearbox, while Quattro all-wheel drive will be standard.
While the pre-facelift Q5 was also offered with a 2.0-litre engine, the updated Q5 will be a petrol-only model, in line with other Audi models in India.
Audi Q5 facelift: expected price and rivals
When launched, the new Audi Q5 will continue its rivalry with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Land Rover Discovery Sport, BMW X3 and Volvo XC60. It is expected to be priced between Rs 58 lakh-60 lakh (ex-showroom).
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