On July 24, 2025, Audi unveiled the third-generation full model change of its premium SUV, the Q5 , in Japan. The car adopts a new generation platform and has undergone significant evolution with the latest 48V mild hybrid system, an innovative curved display, and a sophisticated exterior design.
The price starts at 7.6 million yen, and the car offers a significantly improved level of sophistication and luxury compared to the previous model. The Q5 Sportback coupe SUV has also undergone a full model change at the same time, offering even more stylish options.
In this article, we will thoroughly provide all the information necessary for those considering purchasing the new Q5, including detailed specifications, design changes, and comparisons with competing models.
Overview of the new third-generation Q5
Audi Q5
Main points of the full model change
The new exterior design is more powerful and sophisticated than ever before, with a larger front grille, slimmer headlights, and connected taillights, embodying modern SUV design.
Equipped with the latest technology, the advanced cockpit includes a curved display that integrates an 11.9-inch digital meter and a 14.5-inch infotainment system, as well as a 10.9-inch display for the passenger seat.
New-generation powertrain: All grades come standard with a 48V mild hybrid system, achieving a high level of both efficiency and performance.
Exterior Design
Evolution of the front design
The new single-frame grille has been given a sportier, more three-dimensional design, and the side intakes have been enlarged to create a more powerful impression.
The latest headlights feature a slim design that enhances the impression of modern vehicles, while LED technology provides high visibility and a beautiful light source.
Improved front bumper: A functional design is adopted that reduces air resistance and improves cooling performance.
Side and rear design
Sharp side lines : The new press lines at the bottom of the doors create a more dynamic and taut impression.
Connected taillights The latest design connects the left and right taillights, improving visibility at night and creating a more advanced look.
Improved aerodynamic performance The curved roofline and rear design reduce air resistance, contributing to improved fuel economy and handling.
The appeal of the Q5 Sportback
Uniqueness as a coupe SUV
The elegant roofline creates a sportier and more streamlined silhouette than the standard Q5, providing sophisticated styling ideal for urban use.
Exclusive exterior elements: The Q5 features a special bumper design, side skirts, and rear diffuser that differ from the standard Q5.
Maintaining functionality Despite its coupe style, it has a practical luggage space and is suitable for everyday use.
Interior and advanced equipment
Innovative Cockpit
Curved Display System
- 11.9-inch digital meter
- 14.5-inch infotainment system
- Seamlessly connected, all-in-one design
Dedicated passenger display: A dedicated 10.9-inch display provides enhanced comfort and entertainment for passengers.
A high-quality audio system with 685W output and 16 speakers, the Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System, is available as an option.
Interior space and storage capacity
Loadspace
- Q5: Normal capacity / Maximum 1,473L with rear seats folded
- Q5 Sportback: Normal capacity / Maximum 1,415L with rear seats folded
Practical interior layout: The spacious interior is suitable for family use and offers ample storage space.
Powertrain and Performance
48V mild hybrid system
Gasoline model (TFSI quattro 150kW)
- Inline 4-cylinder 2.0L turbo + 48V mild hybrid
- Engine output: 204ps/34.7kgm
- Motor output: 24ps/23.5kgm
- WLTC mode fuel economy: 14.4km/L
Diesel model (TDI quattro 150kW)
- Inline 4-cylinder 2.0L turbo diesel + 48V mild hybrid
- Engine output: 204ps/40.8kgm
- Motor output: 24ps/23.5kgm
- WLTC mode fuel economy: 16.3km/L
SQ5 (high-performance model)
- V6 3.0L turbo + 48V mild hybrid
- Engine output: 367ps/56.1kgm
- Motor output: 24ps/23.5kgm
- WLTC mode fuel economy: 12.7km/L
Drive system
The quattro 4WD system is standard on all grades, providing excellent driving stability and off-road performance.
7-speed dual-clutch transmission : Smooth and quick shift changes provide a comfortable driving feel.
Overseas spec plug-in hybrid
The appeal of the PHEV model
System Configuration
- Inline 4-cylinder 2.0L gasoline turbo + PHEV
- System output: 299ps/45.9kgm (standard), 367ps/51.0kgm (high output)
- Battery capacity: 25.9 kWh (approximately 45% increase over the previous generation)
- EV range: 100km
It is a plug-in hybrid model designed for the European market, which has strict environmental regulations, but it has not yet been decided whether it will be introduced in Japan.
Safety equipment and advanced technology
Audi Pre Sense
Main safety features
- Front Cross Traffic Assist
- Turn Assist
- adaptive cruise control
- Active Lane Assist
- Surround View Camera System
Driver assistance systems
Advanced driving assistance: The latest sensor technology and AI analysis support safe driving in a variety of traffic situations, from urban areas to highways.
Price and grade structure
Standard lineup price
| grade | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|
| Q5 TFSI quattro 150kW advanced | 7,600,000 yen |
| Q5 TDI quattro 150kW advanced | 7,880,000 yen |
| SQ5 | 10,230,000 yen |
| Q5 Sportback TFSI quattro 150kW advanced | 7,950,000 yen |
| Q5 Sportback TDI quattro 150kW advanced | 8,230,000 yen |
| SQ5 Sportback | 10,580,000 yen |
Limited Edition
Edition One (Limited to 300 units)
- Q5 edition one: 9,190,000 yen
- Q5 Sportback edition one: 9,540,000 yen
Limited model exclusive equipment
- Front air inlets with magnesium grey accents
- Dedicated diffuser trim
- 21-inch black metallic polished Audi Sport multi-spoke wheels
- Black interior (steel gray stitching)
Comparison with competing models
Main competitors
- BMW X3 – Direct competitor to German premium SUVs
- Mercedes-Benz GLC – A long-established rival in the same class
- Volvo XC60 – Scandinavian premium SUV
- Jaguar F-PACE – British Premium SUV
- Lexus NX – Japanese Premium Brand
Competitive advantages of the new Q5
advanced technology
- Curved Display System
- Passenger-only display
- 48V mild hybrid standard on all vehicles
Design
- The latest Audi design language
- Q5 Sportback options
- High-quality interior
performance
- quattro four-wheel drive system
- SQ5 high-performance line
- Well-balanced fuel economy
Points to consider when purchasing
Grade Selection Guidelines
Gasoline vs. diesel models
Gasoline (TFSI) recommended
- Relatively low annual mileage
- Emphasis on quietness
- Focusing on gas station accessibility
Those who recommend diesel (TDI)
- High annual mileage (approximately 15,000km or more per year)
- Prioritizing fuel efficiency
- Looking for powerful low-speed torque
Selecting a Body Type
Those who recommend the standard Q5
- Practicality is paramount
- Family use
- Want to make the most of your luggage space?
Those who are recommended for the Q5 Sportback
- Emphasis on stylish design
- Mainly used in urban areas
- Looking for a unique SUV?
Maintenance and running costs
Estimated annual maintenance costs
Taxes and insurance
- Automobile tax: 39,500 yen/year (2,000cc)
- Automobile weight tax: Approximately 20,000 yen/year
- Compulsory automobile liability insurance: Approximately 13,000 yen/year
- Optional insurance: Approximately 100,000 to 150,000 yen/year (depending on conditions)
Fuel costs (if driven 15,000km per year)
- Gasoline model: Approximately 180,000 yen/year
- Diesel model: Approximately 150,000 yen/year
Maintenance costs
- Regular inspections and vehicle inspections: Approximately 80,000 to 120,000 yen/year
- Consumable replacement: Approximately 50,000 to 80,000 yen/year
Future outlook
Progress in electrification
Audi has announced plans to make the majority of its new car sales electric by the early 2030s, and it is expected that a full EV model of the Q5 will be released in the future.
Development of autonomous driving technology
It is expected that more advanced autonomous driving functions will be installed than the current Level 2 autonomous driving assistance.
summary
The new, third-generation Audi Q5 represents a significant step forward as a key choice in the premium SUV market. It is particularly noteworthy for the following reasons:
Major evolution points
- Advanced digital cockpit : curved display and dedicated passenger display
- Efficient hybrid system : 48V mild hybrid standard on all vehicles
- Sophisticated design : the embodiment of the new generation Audi design language
- A wide range of options : standard Q5, Sportback and high-performance SQ5
- Overall quality improvement : Enhanced safety equipment, comfort equipment, and sound system
Recommended purchase points
- Advanced : Experience the latest technology
- Practicality : Suitable for family and personal use
- Brand value : The reliability and status of the Audi brand
- Resale value : Asset value as a premium brand
- Wide range of options : engines, body types, and trim levels
With a starting price of 7.6 million yen, this is a competitive price considering the equipment and quality included, making it an attractive choice for users who value technological innovation and brand value in the premium SUV market.
Audi Q5
