Electric involves more intensively with the new line-up, but not to point where it will go fully battery-configured.

MILD hybrid drivetrains from the get-go, a high performance S edition coming and plug-in hybrids also featuring in the future.

The Audi Q5’s international unveiling has occurred, and with this occasion comes information about the new vehicle architecture for this third generation, which New Zealand is likely set to see in early 2025.

This PPC (for Premium Platform Combustion)  is share with the Audi A5 (nee A4) family Audi revealed last month. The Q5 already of course fits Audi’s new ‘odd numbers for combustion, even numbers for electric’ range-naming format.

This means that there won’t be an all-electric version of this third-gen Q5 because those duties are handled by the Audi Q4 e-tron and the new Q6 e-tron. 

The most electrified version of the Q5, therefore, will be those incoming PHEVs, but Audi has confirmed this will be the last generation of Q5 that’ll be powered by internal combustion.

The launch powertrains in Europe are a 152kW/340Nm TFSI petrol, the 152kW/400Nm TDI turbodiesel, or the 273kW/550Nm TFSI SQ5. Both of the 152kW units are 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engines, while the SQ5 uses a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 instead.

The entry hybrid assist is a 48-volt fuel-saving set-up designated ‘MHEV Plus’. This comprises an 18kW generator that can put its power and another 230Nm of torque into the mix if required. It’s fed by a 1.7kWh lithium-ion battery.

In respect to the PHEVs, badged ‘TFSI e’? These come in either 222kW or 273kW formats - the latter matching the SQ5, which is a 3.0-litre petrol V6. However the Q5 TFSI e models officially do more than 80km on electric power to a single charge.

All confirmed models employ a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox, either driving the front wheels as standard or with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive either an option or standard-fit on the diesel and performance models.

Steel springs are standard with passive frequency selective damping (FSDs), although full adaptive damper control will be available on Q5s fitted with the optional air suspension. There’s also a sports suspension set-up standard on the SQ5.

Like what you see? Styling-wise, you should, because it is playing a bit safe, going for evolution of the previous original roundish and second-generation more angular shape. 

Overseas’ media who have viewed it in the metal reckon the look is informed by the Q4 and Q6 e-tron models more than anything.

Those LED head- and taillights tie it to the A5 and the A6 e-tron, which means there are eight different selectable signatures that can selected from the MMI infotainment system. 

Wheel sizes span from 17 to 21 inches in diameter, the largest being less aerodynamically optimised to reduce fuel consumption.

As on other latest Audis revealed over recent months, the interior applies the ‘Digital Stage’, a huge construct dominating the upper level of the dash which incorporates a 14.5-inch touchscreen alongside an 11.9-inch instrument cluster. 

A 10.9-inch MMI Passenger Display Screen can also be specified, as can a head-up display whose functions can be controlled through the steering wheel buttons - an Audi first.

Conversion to fabrics over leather seems a nod to these being more eco times, but it’s all very upmarket; ambient and contour lighting also contribute to that theme. The rear seat is fully adjustable and can be slid/folded forward to liberate up to 1473 litres of boot space.