This same hybrid system, given its flexibility and limited girth, will serve as the basis for many, if not all, future hybrids from Audi. Namely, expect an A8, an A6 and more. Incidentally, if you recall reading about a Q7 hybrid, it was “replaced” by the Q5.
Inside and out
The Q5 Hybrid is nearly identical to the run-of-the-mill Q5. From the outside, only unique 19” alloy wheels (which cover larger front discs), a few selective aerodynamic touches and hybrid badges distinguish one from the other.
The same applies on the inside. The passenger cabin remains just as elegant as the stock Q5's. Actually, the full set of digital and analog gauges along with the centre display screen add a very tangible touch of techie-ness that many will appreciate.
Many hybrids suffer luggage-space loss, but that is not the case with the Q5. The only compromise is the loss of the spare tire as that is where the battery pack is located.
Hybrid
The success of this model would normally depend on the asking price. Certainly, given that this is a premium product, a 10 to 15% increase over the regular retail price will most likely not deter the purchaser of a near $50,000 vehicle.
If Audi can smoothen out the transitional phases between energy sources, this will be a very convincing product. It is expected to arrive in dealerships in mid-2011.
Inside and out
The Q5 Hybrid is nearly identical to the run-of-the-mill Q5. From the outside, only unique 19” alloy wheels (which cover larger front discs), a few selective aerodynamic touches and hybrid badges distinguish one from the other.
The same applies on the inside. The passenger cabin remains just as elegant as the stock Q5's. Actually, the full set of digital and analog gauges along with the centre display screen add a very tangible touch of techie-ness that many will appreciate.
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| The passenger cabin remains just as elegant as the stock Q5's. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre/Auto123.com) |
Many hybrids suffer luggage-space loss, but that is not the case with the Q5. The only compromise is the loss of the spare tire as that is where the battery pack is located.
Hybrid
The success of this model would normally depend on the asking price. Certainly, given that this is a premium product, a 10 to 15% increase over the regular retail price will most likely not deter the purchaser of a near $50,000 vehicle.
If Audi can smoothen out the transitional phases between energy sources, this will be a very convincing product. It is expected to arrive in dealerships in mid-2011.
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