Audi Jamaica presents the all-new Audi Q5 TDI

The Q5, which is in the premium category, combines the sportiness of an Audi Saloon with a multifaceted character and the fuel efficiency of a diesel engine. The brand is trying to add as much versatility as possible for its customers. Given that this mid-size SUV bracket is loaded with formidable contenders like the BMW X5 and Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Audi Jamaica is pricing the Q5 competitively at a starting price of $8.4 million.

It’s being launched in Jamaica for the first time with the powerful 2.0 TDI S-tronic (190bph) engine, with fuel consumption being significantly less than its petrol competitors.

The new diesel SUV from Audi takes a sporty and taut stance on the street. A sculpturally flared single-frame grille dominates its aerodynamically flat front end. Plus, it’s available with headlights that are either in Xenon, LED or high-resolution Matrix LED technology with dynamic turn lights.

Typical Audi: Reference to the quattro drive

Visually, it looks elegant and classy as a distinctively curved and strongly undercut shoulder line gives structure to the side view. The strongly emphasised wheel arches are a reference to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, and the low greenhouse tapers back down early.

Just as at the front, horizontal lines at the rear convey an image of width and presence. The tail lights are also available with optional dynamic turn signals. The tailgate wraps around the C-pillars, a typical feature of the Q models from Audi. At the base, a diffuser insert integrates the exhaust tailpipes.

Spacious and wide: the interior

The horizontally oriented lines of the interior underscore the impression of width and comfort, and a three-dimensional trim strip runs across the entire width of the instrument panel. To further personalise things, the new interior offers customers a broad selection of colours and materials.

There is also, three-zone climate control, allowing driver and front and rear passengers to adjust the temperature of the AC to their specific liking.

A three-spoke multifunction steering wheel is standard with accented chrome finish. It also comes with mounted controls, which take a little while to get used to. However, they are quite effective as they give access to the infotainment system and fuel consumption information, among other things.

When it is dark, the optional ambient lighting, standard with design selection, creates an attractive atmosphere in 30 different colours.

The rear seat of the new Audi Q5 TDI is split into three segments and can be put down from a lever in the trunk for expanded storage space. Depending on the rear-seat position, the basic volume of the luggage compartment ranges from 550 to 610 litres (19.4 to 21.5 cu ft), which is 10 litres more than in the previous model.

Simply coherent: controls and displays

Operation of the Audi SUV is intuitive and is marked by three great new features. The optional Audi virtual cockpit presents brilliant graphics on its high-resolution 12.3-inch screen. The driver can choose from two views, a classic view with large, round instruments and a mode in which the navigation map or lists dominate.

The Multi Media Interface (MMI) terminal in the centre console acts as the main control element. In the top infotainment system is the MMI navigation, plus an 8.3-inch display. All this can be controlled by a touchpad, which is also integrated into the rotary push button.

It recognises handwritten entries, as well as gestures such as pinching your fingers to zoom in. If the new Q5 has an automatic transmission, it also has the larger MMI all-in-touch, including haptic feedback.

High-end option: the infotainment modules

The optional Audi phone box connects smartphones to the vehicle’s antenna for optimal reception quality. It also charges smartphones inductively according to the Qi standard.

The Bang and Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound introduces the spatial dimension of height. Something that’s a bit tricky to explain but it makes music sound crisp and powerful.

In addition, there is a smartphone interface which incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Versatile and efficient: drivetrain

The drivetrain of the mid-size SUV has been redeveloped from the ground up. This also applies to all transmissions, including the seven-speed S tronic. Additionally, the automatic transmission integrates a fuel-saving freewheel function.

The driver can now control gear selection via the all-new gear lever or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. In both cases, the control signals are transmitted electronically.

The new Audi SUV comes from the factory with 17-inch alloy wheels. The design and sport equipment lines come with 18-inch wheels, and the full S line sport package and Audi design selection come with 19 to 20-inch wheels.

Vehicle provided by ATL Automotive Ltd, 1876-754-0013. Email: sales@atlautomotive.com.