New Audi Q5 Arrives in Australia

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – March 13, 2009: Audi’s all-new Q5 compact, premium SUV has been officially launched in Australia and promises to write a new chapter for the brand Down Under with its versatile blend of on-road sophistication and off-road ability.

Following in the tyre tracks of its multi-award winning sibling, the Audi Q7 performance SUV, Audi’s new mid-size Q5 will be very much at home in Australia, where the market for versatile, lifestyle-oriented vehicles make it a perfect fit.

Audi’s managing director, Joerg Hofmann, says the Q5 will be a welcome addition to the range in Australia.

“The Q5 is priced very competitively, and it is an extremely attractive package. Both diesel engines and both petrol engines on offer combine strong performance with good fuel economy – a hallmark of our brand. It also looks good and offers typically top quality fit, finish and safety equipment,” Mr Hofmann said.

“The Q5 will undoubtedly give the Audi range a strong boost in 2009 – in image and also in sales. Our network is extremely positive about this addition to our range.”

The Audi Q5 combines off-road ability and generous ground clearance with superb on-road characteristics, wrapped in a premium package. Drawing on Audi’s renowned engineering competencies and the company’s reputation for the highest quality materials and finish, the Q5 is expected to find favour with premium buyers wanting to combine interior spaciousness with luxury appointments and strong performance. The streamlined design and efficiency of the Audi Q5 complete an excellent package for savvy drivers.

Engines at launch
The Audi Q5 will be offered with two engines at its Australian launch - the latest incarnation of Audi’s award-winning four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI and a powerful V6 3.0 TDI powerplant.

Producing a rousing 155kW at between 4,300 and 6,000rpm and 320Nm of torque at 1,500 – 4,200rpm, the 2.0 TFSI is the latest version of the engine voted ‘Engine of the Year’ four times in succession by an international panel of experts since 2005.

This engine now combines direct fuel injection and turbocharging technology with the new Audi valvelift system (AVS) which varies valve lift for increased power output and optimum fuel economy, racing from 0 to 100km/h in just 7.2 seconds but delivering 8.5l/100km.

The 3.0 TDI is noted for its vigorous, high-performance output and tremendous fuel economy. The most powerful diesel engine in the range, the V6 3.0 TDI produces 176kW between 4,000rpm and 4,400rpm and an enormous 500Nm of torque available from 1,500rpm through to 3,000rpm.

The result is an engine which propels the Audi Q5 from a standstill to 100km/h in just 6.5 seconds, boasts a top speed of 225km/h yet still manages to deliver just 7.5l/100km.

These launch engines will be joined in April/May by an exceedingly efficient 6.8 litres/100km 2.0 TDI engine with 125kW @ 4200rpm and 350Nm @ 1,750rpm – 2,500rpm, and a spritely 3.2 FSI with 199kW @ 6,500rpm and 330Nm @ 3,000-5,000rpm.

New 7 speed S tronic gearbox
All powerplants will be mated to Audi’s new S tronic sports gearbox. This innovative dual-clutch transmission now boasts seven gears and offers the versatility of fully automatic mode or the ability to change gears through the gear shift function or optional wheel-mounted paddles.

Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel system is standard across the Q5 range distributing the engine’s power 40:60 between the front and rear wheels, giving it unparalleled grip and stability regardless of road conditions and superior performance off the beaten track.

Leading edge technology
While the Q5 showcases Audi’s flair for automotive design, it also demonstrates the company’s commitment to leading edge technology resulting in strong performance, engaging driving dynamics and high levels of safety.

The streamlined Audi Q5 employs the company’s latest generation innovations to inspire confidence in any conditions, such as the standard-fit hill descent assistance system to negotiate steep slopes, holding the speed constant to allow the driver to concentrate on steering the vehicle.

The Electronic Stabilisation Program ESP and ABS use specially-developed maps for off-road driving to ensure maximum traction when required, while sensors fitted in the roof identify when the roof rack is in position and loaded with up to 100kg. The system recognises that the vehicle’s centre of gravity is now higher, adjusting the ESP response time to suit.

The Q5’s level of interior appointment is also class-leading, offering a spacious environment which can be tailored to suit the needs of individual customers. Audi’s MMI Navigation Plus system as an example, takes multimedia to a new level, with a seven-inch colour monitor and a 40MB hard drive, DVD drive, Bluetooth preparation and TV tuner.

Driver assistance systems such as Audi Side Assist and Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Audi drive select round out a comprehensive range of innovative options available for customers.