Cars

2020 Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid is a greener SQ5 alternative

With output higher than its hi-po sibling, the Q5 PHEV offers a whole lot of oomph.

Andrew Krok

Cars are Andrew's jam, as is strawberry. After spending years as a regular ol' car fanatic, he started working his way through the echelons of the automotive industry, starting out as social-media director of a small European-focused garage outside of Chicago. From there, he moved to the editorial side, penning several written features in Total 911 Magazine before becoming a full-time auto writer, first for a local Chicago outlet and then for CNET Cars.

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Andrew Krok

Oct. 4, 2019 2:00 a.m. PT

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The Q5 plug-in hybrid shares the same powertrain as the A7 plug-in hybrid that we'll also get in the US.

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It starts with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4, which combines with an integrated 143-hp electric motor to produce a net 367 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

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All-wheel drive is standard, as is a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

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Both powertrains draw their electrons from a 14.1-kilowatt-hour battery located under the body.

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By European WLTP estimates, it should generate more than 25 miles of range.

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The EPA hasn't weighed in yet, but given its more conservative assessments, I think US range should fall around 21 or 22 miles.

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The Q5 PHEV's output is actually higher than the hi-po utility vehicle.

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Given the sizable tax incentive that comes with a battery of this size, it's a surprisingly affordable way to go green without sacrificing sport.

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Some Audi dealers might receive a few 2020 A8 and Q5 plug-in hybrids before 2019 is up, but the PHEV onslaught will begin in earnest in the next calendar year, and pricing is still TBA.