This is the first official rendering of the last ICE-powered Q5.
Each model’s final ICE hurrah will be represented by every next-generation Audi. According to the Four Rings, they plan to stop producing combustion-engined cars by 2033. China may extend this deadline depending on demand. The third-generation Q5 will receive TFSI and TDI engines. It is expected to arrive sometime in 2023. In the meantime, speculations have been made.
This design exercise follows the previous batch of spy photos we published earlier in the week. The Audi Q4 Etron will be the front fascia. Camouflaged prototypes had the side mirrors at the base of their A-pillars. This led to a noticeable increase in size. The mirrors on the Q5 are now pushed towards the driver.
The door handles have been moved slightly higher, while the upper character line is now below them. The Audi Q5’s back features a more traditional, narrower tailgate. This is in contrast to the wraparound layout that was used on the previous two generations. Although the prototypes did not have the final taillights we had the impression that these test vehicles were concealing a light bar that was integrated into the renderings.
It is likely that the crossover will inherit the engine lineup of the forthcoming Audi A4(B10). They will share the MLB platform, next-generation gasoline engines and diesel engines with greater electrification than ever before. These engines have been developed as Audi stopped developing ICEs around a year ago and switched to electric powertrains.
All non-PHEV models (or most) will have a 48-volt mild hybrid setup. Car owners will be able plug in and will likely have a larger battery pack for greater electric range. Audi Sport has not done a full-fat RS Q5 yet, so we don’t expect that to happen with Mk3. Although there might be a warm Q5, it is likely too late to get the RS treatment.
We will be able to see more spy shots over the next months. Audi may gradually remove the camouflage so that we can get more details about the design.