Q5 Hybrid quattro (Germany, 2011)

In 2010 Audi unveiled the first full hybrid vehicle in the premium mid-sized class: the Audi Q5 Hybrid quattro. The hybrid vehicle is expected to reach the markets in 2011.

Audi states that its Q5 Hybrid quattro has the power of a V6 engine with the consumption of a four-cylinder TDI. It is the first hybrid model from Audi with two drive systems. The hybrid vehicle combines a gasoline engine, a 2.0 TFSI, with an electric motor, both delivering a power output of 245 hp and 480 Nm of torque. Audi predicts that it has a consumption in the combined cycle of less than 7.0 liters per 100 km, corresponding to less than 160 g/km.

Both engines are mounted directly behind one another as a parallel hybrid system on the Q5 Hybrid. Thanks to its 245 hp power output and 480 Nm of torque it is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in in 7.1 seconds, while the interim sprint from 80 to 120 km/h is accomplished in fifth gear in 5.9 seconds. The top speed of the Q5 Hybrid is fixed at 222 km/h. The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro has five different operating modes: the combustion engine driving alone, the electric drive, the hybrid mode, recuperation and boosting. Equipped with a start-stop mode, when stopped at a traffic light, both drive sources are deactivated, although the climate control system remains active.

The hybrid version of the Q5 is able to drive three kilometers locally emission-free at a speed of 60 km/h and reach a top speed of 100 km/h (62.14 mph) under electric power alone. Using a button on the center console or a selector lever, drivers are able to change between three programs. The EV mode gives priority to the electric drive in the city, the D mode controls both motors for optimal consumption, and the S mode, as well as the touch control gate of the tiptronic, is designed for a sporty driving style.

When acceleration becomes stronger, the combustion engine becomes the main power source, with the electric engine being used by the operating strategy in order to achieve optimal efficiency and consumption. In quick acceleration, or "boosting," the electric motor operates together with the TFSI. The Q5 Hybrid quattro is also equipped with an energy recovery system. When the accelerator is released by the driver the electric motor acts as a generator and recovers energy. The electricity recovered by the electric motor here and in braking is buffered in the lithium-ion battery.

The Audi Q5 Hybrid can also be distinguished by visual features on its external design. The tailgate, the fenders and the aluminum sill panel strips bear the hybrid lettering. The radiator grill is glossy black, and the tailpipes chrome-trimmed. Polar Silver, metallic is available for the paintwork. The hybrid Q5 also features 19 inch cast aluminum wheels.