2020 Audi Q5 and A8 will arrive in the U.S. in plug-in form
Audi is ready to plug into the U.S. with two new models, each offering improved performance and fuel economy compared to its non-hybrid counterparts. The first plug-in hybrids from the brand this year will be the 2020 Q5 compact crossover and the 2020 A8 flagship sedan.
The Q5 plug-in hybrid, which will be badged "TFSI e," will feature an electric motor powered by a 2.0-liter turbo four and a 14.1 kwh battery back, producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. According to Audi, the plug-in Q5 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds and has an all-electric range of 20 miles, with an EPA-rated fuel economy of 65 MPGe.The Q5 TFSI e is compatible with CCS and J1172 chargers, but Audi has not disclosed how long it takes to charge.
The A8 TFSI e will feature the same plug-in hybrid hardware as Audi's turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. It produces 443 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque and accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.9 s. The boost function, standard on the A8 TFSI, maximizes output in a short time.
Audi will offer three driving modes for both models: hybrid, EV, and battery hold. The hybrid mode is automatically activated when the navigation system is used. It controls the powertrain to reduce fuel consumption. the EV mode is the default setting when starting the Q5. EV mode is maintained unless the driver depresses the throttle hard. Battery hold mode maintains the current battery state and uses the engine to charge the battery when necessary.
The Audi Q5 TFSI e comes standard with S line exterior trim, black grille surround, and 19-inch wheels; the A8 TFSI e comes standard with a unique lighting signature up front, 19-inch wheels on the exterior, MMI Touch infotainment system with an electric-only driving screen and a digital meter cluster displaying battery data and range information.
The Q5 TFSI e is priced at $53,895 for the Premium model, $57,595 for Premium Plus, and $61,345 for Prestige. According to Audi, the Q5 TFSI e qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $6,712.
The A8 TFSI, on the other hand, will arrive a few months later, priced at $94,995. This is about $9,000 more than the base A8 with the turbo V-6, but Audi says it qualifies for a tax credit of up to $6,795.
