Audi Q5

There’s no doubt about it… Auto Express’s spies have scored a five-star scoop! This is the new Audi Q5, which will go on sale here late next year.

The mid-sized SUV will get the latest twin-clutch S tronic automated manual box. And a new system called Drive Select tailors settings of the engine, transmission, steering and adaptive suspension depending on the mode selected via the Multi Media Interface (MMI).

The Q5 will also benefit from Audi’s latest Bluetec engine technology. The firm’s 2.0-litre TDI uses common-rail fuel injection to give 204bhp, while a special neutralising system in the exhaust cuts harmful gas emissions.

Conventional FSI petrol and TDI diesel versions of the car are expected, too. And while all models get four-wheel drive, high-spec variants will feature a newly developed quattro system designed to offer saloon car handling.

Inside, the Q5 will be a strict five-seater, although durable stowage features similar to those on the Land Rover Freelander boost practicality.

Insiders have hinted the Q5 could eventually form the basis of a hybrid model, and is likely to be followed by a smaller SUV called the Q3