The new Q5 e-tron is Audi’s latest member of its all-electric SUV lineup, which has been revealed at the 2021 Guangzhou Auto Show, aimed exclusively at the Chinese market. The latest MEB-based model shouldn’t be confused with the MQB-based Q5 or the upcoming PPE-based Q6 e-tron that is expected to be available in both Europe and US markets. The Q5 e-tron has been spied testing several times in the past, with photos of the production model leaked last August through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. As such, we were already familiar with the design of the SUV which naturally adopts all of Audi’s signature ques.

The electric SUV is based on VW Group’s MEB platform, just like the Q4 e-tron and Q4 e-tron Sportback. However, as the name suggests, it is quite larger, measuring 4,876 mm long with a 2,965 mm as opposed to the Q4’s 4,588 mm length and 2,764 mm wheelbase. Both models are siblings to the VW ID.4 / I.D5 and the China-only VW ID.6  respectively, with a more premium approach on design and equipment. In essence, the Q5 e-tron is a premium version of the ID.6.

 

Overall, the Q5 e-tron looks like a more family-focused variant of the Q4 e-tron. The front end is featuring a similarly covered singleframe grille but larger dual headlights and different bumper intakes. The profile boasts similar dynamic lines, with an optional bi-tone treatment for the roof. The rear overhang is longer, with slimmer full-width LED taillights and a Q7-inspired bumper. Inside, the dashboard is derived from the Q4 e-tron, with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen. However, thanks to the generous footprint the cabin is more roomy offering space for up to seven passengers in three rows of seats. It will also be available with a six-seat interior layout featuring two individual seats on the second row.

Audi was coy on details but we already know that the SUV will be available at least in three different powertrain guises. In the official pictures, we can see the Q5 40 e-tron fitted with a 201 hp motor and RWD, and the flagship Q5 50 e-tron featuring a dual-motor setup with 301 hp and AWD. Those two are reportedly getting an 83.4 kWh battery pack offering an undisclosed amount of range – weirdly the VW ID.6 comes with either a 58 kW or a 77 kWh battery. From the previous leak, we have also seen the base Q5 35 e-tron variant which will be fitted with a single 177 hp electric motor and possibly a smaller battery pack.

 

The Audi Q5 e-tron will be produced in China from the VW-SAIC joint venture, alongside the closely-related VW ID6 X.