Upscale technology simply the norm in stretched-out China-only Audi Q5L
Lengthened crossover provides more rear-seat legroom, high-end nav system
What is it? If it is going to matter in China, it must have an L in its name. Audi already sells the longwheelbase A4L, A6L and the A8L models, now comes the first longwheelbase crossover, the Q5L.
Stretching the wheelbase and exterior length by 88 millimetres gives the rear seat passengers an additional 110 mm of knee room without decreasing the cargo capacity, which continues at 550 to 1,550 litres.
Where the Q5L differs from those sold on this side of the Pacific is in content.
All but the base model get the high-end MMI Navigation Plus infotainment and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit as standard fare.
Move up one more rung and a Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 3D sound is included.
Why does it matter? The turbocharged 2.0-L four-cylinder engine works with a standard seven-speed S-tronic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive.
Through Audi’s Drive Select system, the driver can choose between Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Efficiency and Individual driving modes. When in Dynamic mode, the Q5L runs from rest to 100 km/ h in 6.7 seconds. When will Canada get it? The Q5L is aimed exclusively at the Chinese market, but if it did come to Canada, could it be badged Q6?
Should you buy it? The launch of the new Q5L in China is the start of a barrage of 10 new crossovers from Audi by 2022. Many will be electrified, with either plug-in hybrid or all-electric variants in the mix.
It’s part of a plan that will see the company ’s sales in China rise from the 660,000 mark to 1.3 million in that time frame, says Audi chairman Rupert Stadler.