Audi has been spied testing its next-generation SQ5 again, though it’s unclear if it will continue to offer V6 power.
This test vehicle looks to have production-specification front and rear ends, but appears to be riding on prototype wheels.
It looks to have no significant changes from the prototype captured by our photographers at the Nurburgring in April.
The headlights and taillights appear to be production-ready, with the taillights possibly being linked with an LED light strip running the width of the tailgate.
Complimenting the new design language is an aggressive body kit with new side skirts, a more sculpted rear bumper with quad exhaust outlets, and an extended front lip.
While there have been rumours Audi could downsize to a four-cylinder engine, whatever the engine, we expect it to utilise some form of hybrid assistance.
Given the sighting of quad exhaust tips, it’s possible the SQ5 could retain its turbocharged V6 power plants.
The current SQ5 is powered by a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 with a 48V mild-hybrid system. The system generates 251kW of power and 700Nm of torque.
It’s also still available in other markets with a 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol V6 engine with 260kW and 500Nm.
A side-by-side analysis of the new SQ5 reveals the new model sits lower and wider than the previous generation.
We also expect a slightly longer wheelbase in order to free up more interior space.
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Previously spied Q5 prototype
The next-generation Q5 and SQ5 are expected to sit on an updated version of the existing MLB Evo platform, which will also likely be used by the next-generation A4.
While the interior of the latest test vehicle wasn’t spied, previous spy photos of the Q5 reveal the new interior follows the latest Volkswagen Group trend of a dash dominated by a large free-standing touchscreen with integrated climate controls.
This is complimented by a new free-standing digital instrument cluster in front of the driver. A new steering wheel similar to those found on various e-tron models is also visible.
The next generation of Q5 will likely be the last to use internal combustion power, with Audi planning to cease sales of all petrol and diesel cars outside of China beyond 2033.
The Q5 range was bolstered recently with the addition of a Sportback coupe body style, which joined the local range in August 2021.
The current-generation Q5 has been on sale in Australia since 2017 and it received a refresh in 2021.
MORE: Everything Audi SQ5
