2017 Audi Q5 Test Prototype Spied in Germany While in Traffic

"Desperate" is a strong word. But the point is that this SUV needs to do everything right, including looking good.

A test prototype of the 2017 Q5 has been filmed today by Youtuber HotCarSpotter88 in what we presume is Leipzig or Berlin. Usually, Audi keeps its test prototypes away from the city until the last moment. So the sighting suggests a debut is likely to take place within the next few months.

The second-generation SUV is covered in camouflage. However, we can tell that it looks just like renderings we've shown you. With a heavy heart, Audi's new designer Marc Lichte must have agreed to use many of the all-new A4's styling cues. These include the shape of the headlights and the side air intakes.

There are some major differences, though. For example, the chrome grille design will be borrowed from the Q7. Around the back, the exhaust tips will be square and integrated into the bumper.

In both videos shown below, the brightly light taillights can be clearly seen. The horizontal V-shaped elements are clearly a hint to the smaller Q3. In a way, the Q5 will have elements from all its sisters, even the R8 (the Virtual Cockpit).

Underneath the sheet metal, the A4 will offer most of the support. Its platform and engines will be used by the Q5. These will include several versions of the 2.0 TDI ranging from 150 to 190 PS, followed by a few 3.0 TDI units. In the gasoline department, we'll see a 2-liter turbo with 190 PS installed on the Q5 TFSI ultra.

In a few years, the SQ5 will also arrive with a 350 horsepower turbo V6. Reports suggest an RS Q5 is also planned and may have the twin-turbo 2.9-liter that's being developed for the RS4.