Audi Q5 SUV official photos leaked; India launch by 2012 end!

Images of the face lifted Audi Q5 and details about the India bound German SUV have surfaced the internet. The Q5 facelift is expected to hit the Indian market by the end of 2012.

The Q5 facelift gets refreshed front bumpers, a new radiator grille and redesigned headlamps. There aren’t many changes on the interior, but expect new trims to enhance the premium feel. The major change lies under the hood. The upcoming Q5 facelift is powered by a redeveloped 2-litre TFSI petrol motor that puts out 221 Bhp of power, an increase of 10 Bhp when compared to the outgoing model’s engine power.

The new Q5 diesel will feature a 3-litre V6 motor that puts out 241 Bhp of power and 578 Nm of torque. When compared to the present 3-litre V6 diesel motor, the new motor puts out just 1 Bhp more power, but a healthy 78 Nm more torque. Hence, expect the Q5 facelift to accelerate better than the present model.

At present, the Q5 is priced in the range of Rs. 39.44 lakh – Rs. 45.56 lakh. The upcoming Q5 facelift is expected to come with a marginal price hike when compared to the outgoing model. The new Q5 will take on the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GL Class.

Audi India has been very aggressive in its Indian operations. Audi has surged past Mercedes-Benz to take the No. 2 spot in sales volume in the Indian luxury car segment.

Part of Audi’s success can be attributed to its new model launches and facelift launches in quick succession.  For the year 2012, apart from the Q5 facelift, Audi India has scheduled the launch of the much-expected Q3 crossover and the face lifted A4 sedan.