SPY PICS: Next-gen Audi Q5 spied for first time
Big redesign, roomier cabin and higher tech for Audi’s third-generation Q5 mid-size SUVThe next-generation 2023 Audi Q5 has been spotted by our spy photographers – for the first time – undergoing real-world testing in Europe ahead of an expected global reveal next year.
Wrapped in eye-bending and line-blurring black and white camouflage, the third generation of Audi’s popular mid-size luxury SUV looks to be riding on a longer wheelbase than the current iteration which should help liberate more cabin space, especially in the second row.
While the camo wrap obscures exterior details, it can’t hide the basic lines of the front fascia which reveals a redesigned grille with prominent vertical air curtains either side, a larger lower intake and narrower headlights.
With the full outline just able to be seen, the familiar single-frame grille will be making a return and likely lend itself to an angrier and more focused overall look when combined with the new air curtains.
The rest of the body looks resolutely similar to the current model, albeit bigger.
The rear-end of this engineering development car has four individual tail-light and indicator combinations surrounded by black plastic, which will not make it across to the production version.
A pair of exhaust tips can be seen poking out at either end of the bumper underneath the familiar segmented tailgate.
Audi plans to continue producing combustion-engined vehicles for another 10 years, so the incoming Q5 looks certain to stick with a variety of petrol and diesel powertrains (with at least mild-hybrid assistance) as well as offer stronger electrified options including plug-in hybrid.
A Sportback body style is also expected to continue with the next generation.
An electric Porsche Macan can be seen tailing the camouflaged Q5 prototype in two of the images, pointing to joint development work between the two Volkswagen Group brands.
The Macan is similarly due to enter a new (second) generation, with the electric model already confirmed as sitting on fresh PPE architecture that will also underpin the related Audi Q6 e-tron.
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