The second-generation Audi Q5 that was launched in January this year is all set to get a petrol variant, with Audi announcing the launch of the petrol Q5 on June 28. According to our sources, the petrol Q5 will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol TFSI motor, which is available on the Q5 in international markets and is also shared with the Q7 40 TFSI.
The 2.0-litre petrol motor churns out 252hp and 370Nm of peak torque, the same output figures as the Q7 40 TFSI. However, unlike the Q7’s engine, which is equipped with an eight-speed automatic, the Q5’s motor will be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is seen on the diesel engine.
Expect the equipment list of the petrol Q5 to be on-par with the diesel, which means Audi’s virtual cockpit and wireless smartphone connectivity compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could also make its way to the petrol.
The addition of a petrol engine is sure to give this SUV an advantage over its competition like the Volvo XC60, which as of now, is offered only with a diesel engine. At present, the core competitors to the petrol Q5 are the recently launched BMW X3 xDrive30i, Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and Lexus NX 300h.
In 2018, Audi has been on the ball with its launches, having already launched the diesel Q5 and the RS5, making the petrol Q5 the brand’s third launch this year. The German brand will also launch the next-generation of its flagship sedan - the A8 that debuts Audi’s prologue face, later in the year. The recently unveiled A6 is scheduled to arrive in India early in 2019.
Also see:
2018 Audi Q5 diesel India review, test drive
2018 Audi Q5 India video review