Power like a V6, fuel consumption like a four-cylinder TDI - after three generations of the Audi duo, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro is the first hybrid model from Audi with two drive systems. Its gasoline engine, a 2.0 TFSI, and its electric motor have a system output 180 kW (245 hp) and 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) for sporty dynamics - the mean consumption in the normal cycle (NEDC) is limited to less than 7.0 liters per 100 km (33.60 US mpg).The 2.0 TFSI and the electric motor of the Audi Q5 hybrid are mounted directly behind one another as a parallel hybrid system - a straight-line concept with impressive efficiency. Together they have a system output of 180 kW (245 hp) and a system torque of 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft). The new top model in the successful Q5 series sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 miles) in 7.1 seconds, while the interim sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) is
accomplished in fifth gear in 5.9 seconds. The powerful propulsion ends at no less than 222 km/h (137.94 mph).
Under the bonnet is Audi’s turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-litre TFSI unit, good for 208bhp and 258lb ft, the latter available from 1500 to 4200rpm. There’s no manual ‘box or dual-clutch transmission, but an eight-speed automatic, with a disk-shaped electric motor in place of the torque converter. The motor itself produces 33kW and 155lb ft, and also acts as a starter motor and a generator. The total output for the system is 241bhp and 354lb ft.
The result is 40.4mpg and sub-160g/km CO2, plus 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds, 138mph flat out. Not gobsmacked? Then remember that this is a car primarily designed for the diesel-despising USA. For comparisons sake, a non-hybrid 2.0 TFSI with an S-tronic transmission (what American will opt for a stick-shift SUV?) manages 7.2sec, 137mph, 32.8mpg and 19
9g/km. And the important figures match or best an auto-equipped 2.0 TDI’s 40.4mpg and 184g/km.
Just because the Audi Q5 Hybrid Quattro starts with a four-cylinder engine doesnt mean its slow. In fact, 0-62 mph takes 7.1 seconds. The nearly 20-gallon fuel tank, Audi notes, means this Q5 has a diesel-like range, though probably not if you are traveling at the vehicles 138-mph top speed.
The 2.0-liter engine weve come to know and love in other Audis is altered for u
se in the Hybrid. The turbo has been retuned and the ECU helps make smooth transitions between operating modes. An eight-speed automatic transmission is part of the package, as is engine start-stop technology. By itself, the electric m
otor makes 45 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. The lithium-ion battery system doesnt have a huge effect on the cargo capacity, Audi says.
