By Christopher Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(November 23, 2016) The 2018 Audi Q5 is built on the latest iteration of Audi’s MLB modular platform in a new plant in San Jose Chiapa in the Mexican federal state of Puebla. It is the only plant designated to build the Q5, and has a yearly capacity of 150,000 vehicles.

For the time being at least, there will be no diesel option for the Q5. That makes the new 2.0-liter inline four gasoline engine the only powerplant available. It produces 252 hp from 5,000-6,000 rpm, and 273 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,600-4,500. It mates to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the combination is capable of taking the Q5 from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, 1.1 seconds faster than the previous model.

A new quattro all-wheel drive system is used, and it has been optimized for both performance and efficiency. It uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch pack and decoupling rear axle. This allows for variable front:rear torque distribution, as well as the elimination of the drag that occurs when the rear wheels are driven where their traction isn’t needed.



The five-link front suspension has been revised for greater comfort and agility, and adaptive damping is available as an option. The various damping combinations are enabled by the Audi Drive Select system, which is now standard on all Q5 trim levels.

Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, which replaces the main gauge cluster with a 12.3-in, color display is available, as is a full-color head-up display, handwriting recognition for the MMI infotainment unit, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, a 755-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system with 19 speakers, and Audi’s 4G LTE-enabled Audi Connect service,

On the driver assistance front, the new Q5 comes with (depending on trim level):

    P• re Sense Basic to help prepare the vehicle for impact by beginning to close the side windows and panoramic sunroof, and pretensioning the front safety belts.

   •  Pre Sense City that helps detect pedestrians, and cornering and stationary vehicles at speeds of up to 52 mph, and can initiate full braking when a potential collision is detected.

    • Side Assist provides blind spot monitoring via LED indicators on the exterior mirror housings at speeds above 9 mph.

   • Pre Sense Rear monitors traffic following the vehicle and takes similar actions to Pre Sense Basic.

    • Vehicle Exit Assist blinks the Side Assist warning light to alert the driver when vehicles or cyclists are approaching from behind as the vehicle doors are opened.

   •  Rear Cross Traffic Assist supports the driver when reversing out of a perpendicular parking space.

    • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Traffic Jam Assist helps maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front between 0-40 mph, including braking and accelerating as needed.

   • Traffic Sign Recognition can detect speed limits and displays the information in the Audi virtual cockpit or driver information system.
    Active Lane Assist identifies lane markings and provides gentle steering wheel vibrations if the vehicle is approaching the edge of the lane without signaling.

    • Turn Assist can detect the approach of oncoming traffic when making a left-hand turn at an intersection while the vehicle is traveling between 1-7 mph and the turn signal is activated.

The Virtual Driver