2017 Audi Q5 unveiled at the Paris motor show

The new Audi Q5 has been revealed at the Paris motor show, ahead of the model’s international launch early next year.

Audi's second-generation BMW X3, a Mercedes-Benz GLC rival, has been spotted in various stages of development since 2015. Underneath, it's closely related to the new A4, and has been engineered from scratch to reduce weight. The result is that some versions of the new Q5 will be as much as 100kg lighter than the first-generation one that went on sale in 2008.

Key to that weight loss is the adoption of VW Group's MLB platform - already used by the A4 and the larger Q7. The new Q5 is close to the old model in size, but incorporates better packaging to improve inside space. The new Q5 is also one of the most aerodynamic cars in this class, and Audi is promising 'exceptionally' low wind noise and very little vibrations in the cabin.

The Q5's exterior has been given a more rugged appearance over the current car, in order to amplify its off-road credentials. Clear influences from the Q7 and smaller Q2 can be seen, particularly around the front of the car. Its headlights come as either LED or high-resolution Matrix LED depending on specification, and Audi's dynamic turn signals also feature.

Inside the five-seat cabin, buyers will be able to opt for Audi's 12.3in Virtual Cockpit display - already in use on a wide variety of models - as well as two different infotainment screens. A 7.0in free-standing screen will feature on the standard car, while range-topping models will get a larger 8.3in screen. The system is controlled via a rotary dial and touchpad. Top-end versions include haptic feedback. A newly-developed head-up display is also offered, but only as an option.

The boot space has also gone up in the new model, with capacity increasing to 610 litres with all seats up, and 1550 litres with the rear bench folded down.

The new Q5 will come with a range of four-cylinder and V6 petrol and diesel options, with most engines carried over from the A4. The V6 motors are part of a new generation of engines jointly developed between Audi and Porsche. Also planned is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Q5. The Q5 PHEV model will feature a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine working in combination with an electric motor - it's said to have an all-electric range of up to 50km, as previewed by the Audi All-road Shooting Brake concept car.

Audi also wants to offer buyers more performance-oriented options. Both SQ5 and RS Q5 versions of the car will be made, with the former getting around 330hp from its 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, and the latter getting close to 500hp from a twin-turbocharged version of the same engine.

The new Q5 will be offered with a choice of front or all-wheel drive, with the engines paired to either a six-speed manual, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or an eight-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox.

The new Q5 is underpinned by new five-link front and rear suspension, with steel springs and adjustable dampers, in a setup largely borrowed from the A4. Optional air suspension will also be offered - including a self-leveling feature borrowed from the Q7 - in a bid to improve its ride and enhance towing ability.

The new Q5 will be built at Audi’s new factory in Mexico. The automaker also plans to assemble in countries such as India and China. The Q5 is expected make its way to India sometime in late 2017.