Audi Q5

The 2025 Audi Q5 in India is expected to be powered by a refined petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. The most likely option is a 2.0-litre TFSI (turbocharged petrol) engine, expected to produce around 268 bhp of power and 370 Nm of torque. This engine will be paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's signature quattro all-wheel-drive system as standard.

The inclusion of a 48V mild-hybrid system is expected to improve fuel efficiency and provide a small power boost during acceleration. The performance is expected to be strong, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time in the low to mid-6 second range. The quattro AWD system will provide enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. While a diesel engine option might not be available initially, a plug-in hybrid variant could be introduced later. The powertrain is expected to offer a good balance of performance and efficiency for a luxury SUV.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Audi Q5 is expected to offer a comfortable and composed ride quality, characteristic of a luxury SUV. The suspension setup, likely a multi-link system at both the front and rear, will be tuned to absorb road imperfections effectively, providing a smooth experience for occupants.

Handling is expected to be predictable and stable, with the quattro all-wheel-drive system contributing to enhanced grip and confidence, especially in varied road conditions. The steering is expected to be precise and well-weighted, offering a good balance between ease of maneuverability in the city and stability at higher speeds.

 While the Q5 is not a performance-oriented SUV, it is expected to offer confident handling and a comfortable ride for long journeys. The new platform might also contribute to improved ride and handling dynamics compared to the previous generation.

The interior of the 2025 Audi Q5 is where the most significant changes are expected. The cabin is set to become more screen-centric, featuring what Audi calls the "Digital Stage." This includes an 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster seamlessly integrated with a larger 14.5-inch curved MMI touchscreen infotainment display. An optional 10.9-inch passenger display is also expected to be available on top trims, featuring privacy technology to prevent driver distraction.

The overall design is clean and horizontally oriented, emphasizing width and spaciousness. High-quality materials are expected throughout the cabin, with leather or leatherette upholstery options. Seating is for five occupants, with comfortable and supportive seats. The rear seats are expected to offer adjustability for recline and can be folded in a 40/20/40 split for increased cargo space. Features like multi-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof are expected to enhance the luxury experience. The focus is on creating a modern, connected, and comfortable environment for occupants.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 Audi Q5 is a major highlight, centered around the new 14.5-inch curved MMI touchscreen display. This system is expected to run on Audi's latest software, offering improved performance, sharper graphics, and a more intuitive user interface. It will support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless smartphone integration.

Integrated navigation is standard, and the system is likely to include connected car features via the myAudi app, offering remote functions and vehicle information. The Audi Virtual Cockpit, the 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, is highly configurable and provides essential driving information, navigation prompts, and media details directly in the driver's line of sight. Higher variants are expected to feature a premium sound system, likely from Bang & Olufsen. The increased screen real estate and updated software aim to provide a cutting-edge digital experience.

The exterior design of the 2025 Audi Q5 is an evolution of the current model, featuring sharper lines and a more assertive presence. The front is dominated by a wider, flatter Singleframe grille with a new mesh pattern. The LED headlights are redesigned and are expected to feature customizable daytime running light signatures on higher variants. The bumper is also restyled, contributing to a sportier look.

From the side, the familiar Q5 silhouette is retained, but with more sculpted surfaces and updated alloy wheel designs (expected to be available in 18, 19, and 20-inch sizes). The shoulder line is more pronounced, running along the length of the vehicle. The rear features redesigned LED taillights, potentially with OLED technology offering different lighting signatures. 

The rear bumper is also updated, and the overall design appears cleaner and more modern. Dimensions are expected to be slightly altered compared to the outgoing model, with a length of around 4682 mm, width of 1893 mm, and height of 1655 mm, and a wheelbase of 2819 mm. The design maintains a balance between sporty elegance and SUV robustness.

Safety is a key aspect of the Audi Q5, and the 2025 model is expected to continue the strong safety performance of its predecessor. The outgoing Audi Q5 received a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, and the new generation, built on a newer platform with updated safety technologies, is expected to perform equally well or better. While a specific Bharat NCAP rating is yet to be determined, the Euro NCAP rating provides a strong indication of its safety credentials.

The 2025 Q5 is expected to come equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. Standard safety features are likely to include multiple airbags (expected to be at least 8), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and traction control.

 Higher variants are expected to offer advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), potentially including features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking camera with park assist. The robust structure of the new platform and the array of safety technologies aim to provide a high level of protection for occupants.

The 2025 Audi Q5 will compete in the highly competitive mid-size luxury SUV segment in India. Its primary rivals will include the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, and potentially the Lexus NX.

In this segment, buyers prioritize a blend of brand image, luxury, features, performance, and comfort. The Q5 will aim to differentiate itself with its updated design, advanced interior technology (particularly the large displays), refined mild-hybrid petrol engine, and the capabilities of the quattro AWD system. 

Competitors like the BMW X3 offer a more driver-focused experience, while the Mercedes-Benz GLC is known for its comfort and luxurious interior. The Volvo XC60 emphasizes safety and Scandinavian design, and the Lexus NX offers a strong hybrid option. The pricing of the 2025 Q5, expected to start around ₹70 Lakh ex-showroom, will be crucial in positioning it against these rivals.

The 2025 Audi Q5 is poised to be a strong contender in the Indian luxury SUV market. With its refreshed design, significantly upgraded interior technology, and a modern mild-hybrid petrol powertrain, it addresses key areas to remain competitive. The focus on large, integrated displays in the cabin brings it in line with the latest trends in automotive interiors and should appeal to tech-savvy buyers. The expected continuation of a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating provides confidence in its protective capabilities.

While the design is an evolution rather than a revolution, the updates are likely sufficient to keep it looking fresh. The combination of a refined petrol engine, smooth automatic transmission, and quattro AWD should offer a pleasant driving experience suitable for a luxury SUV. For buyers in India seeking a well-rounded mid-size luxury SUV that offers a good balance of style, technology, comfort, and safety from a premium brand, the 2025 Audi Q5 is definitely a model to consider when it launches. Its success will depend on its final pricing and how well its features and performance stack up against its formidable rivals in the Indian market.