Q5 Sportback: Mexico’s Latest Audi Export to the World

German automaker Audi celebrated the launch of the new Q5 Sportback 2022, its medium-sized, sporty SUV, manufactured in Mexico for the world.

The Q5 Sportback 2022 design is “aimed at customers who not only appreciate expressive design and technological innovation but also sporty character and versatility for everyday use,” according to the brand’s webpage.

Regarding acceleration, the new range of engines offer two different options: a 2L mild hybrid with turbo fuel stratified injection (TFSI), four cylinders and 249HP and the more powerful 3L TFSI with 354HP. Traction in all cases is quattro, which “proactively switches between FWD and AWD in specific driving circumstances.” As part of its sporty style, Q5 Sportback’s sport suspension offers “a responsive feel and delivers smooth handling,” states the company.

The Q5 Sportback 2022, which will continue to be produced in San Jose Chiapa, Puebla, is equipped with Audi Connect infotainment services, Audi’s virtual cockpit plus and a navigation system that helps drivers with relevant information for their trips, including traffic information, as well as gas station and parking lot locations. Prices for the Q5 Sportback 2022 in Mexico start at MX$1.1 million (US$55,500) for the Select version and rise up to MX$1.45 million (US$72,500) for the SQ5 version.

With 76,930 units sold in September, light vehicle sales in Mexico, including premium cars, have had their worst September since 2011 (when they amounted to 73,998 units) and hit the lowest level for any month since July 2020, reported MBN. New COVID-19 waves and semiconductors shortages continue hitting the industry in 2H21.

Five Years of Production in San Jose Chiapa

On Sept. 30, 2021, Audi México commemorated five years of production in San Jose Chiapa, Puebla, where the first premium car plant in Mexico established in 2016. With an annual production of over 150,000 vehicles, which has been exceeded three times, Audi México has produced over 700,000 vehicles since 2016, exporting the Audi Q5 to the entire world, except China, said Audi México in a statement.

Audi’s Mexican plant is the most modern facility of the German automaker in America, and enabled the creation of 5,200 direct jobs and over 20,000 indirect jobs across the value chain, according to the company. Volkswagen and Audi have also jointly worked to achieve more efficient logistics. Production at both plants is shipped simultaneously to the port of Lazaro Cardenas in Michoacan.