Audi has quietly expanded the Q5 lineup in America thanks to the introduction of an entry-level Q5 40 TFSI quattro. However, entry-level is a relative term as the 2022 Q5 40 TFSI quattro starts at US$ 43,300 and that’s the same price as the 2021 Q5 45 TFSI quattro. That’s before factoring in the destination charge, which has climbed from US$ 1,095 to US$ 1,195 for 2022. As a result, the Q5 40 TFSI quattro is US$ 100 more expensive than its more powerful predecessor.
So what does US$ 43,300 get you this year? A
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine developing 201 hp and 320 Nm of torque. It’s connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch
transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the crossover
to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 6.8 seconds, before hitting an
electronically limited top speed of 209 km/h. That’s quite a
downgrade as the 2021 Q5 45 TFSI quattro featured a more powerful 2.0-liter
engine developing 261 hp and 370 Nm of torque.
This cut the 0-96 km/h time to 5.7 seconds, while the top speed was
the same at 209 km/h.
The Q5 45 TFSI quattro continues to be
available for 2022, but it now starts at US$ 45,800 which is an increase of US$ 2,500. However, that’s nothing compared to the Q5 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid
which has seen its base price climb from US$ 51,900 to US$ 55,400 for a US$ 3,500
increase. Getting back to the Q5 40 TFSI quattro, it comes nicely equipped with
LED lighting units, a power liftgate, and 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-season
rubber. Buyers will also find an upscale interior with heated leather front
seats, brown walnut wood trim, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system.
Other highlights include a 10.1-inch infotainment system, a 7-inch display in
the instrument cluster, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. They’re joined by
cruise control, Homelink, and remote keyless entry with a push-button ignition.
The entry-level Q5 comes equipped with an
assortment of driver assistance systems including high beam assist, side
assist, active lane assist, and parking system plus. There’s also a rear view
camera as well as Pre Sense City, Pre Sense Basic, and Pre Sense Rear.
