Audi is looking to shake up the competitive compact luxury crossover segment by introducing the updated 2013 Audi Q5 that has gone through a major mid-cycle refresh. At the heart of the updates is a new set of powertrains in the form of a new diesel engine, two updated gasoline units and the first-ever hybrid. In Audi's Q5 Hybrid, a turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI with 211hp and 258lb-ft of torque is combined with a lithium-ion battery-powered electric motor capable of 54hp and 155lb-ft for a total output of 245hp and 354lb-ft of torque.

Audi's Quatttro AWD system comes as standard, meaning the 8-speed automatic is constantly sending power to all four wheels. A six-speed manual and seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch will also be available in markets outside the US. Audi claims the Q5 Hybrid can sprint from 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds and hit a top speed of 140mph; combined fuel economy is rated at 34mpg, and in all-electric mode has a range of less than two miles up to 37mph. The US will finally get to enjoy the benefits of an oil-burning Q5 as Audi will be bringing the Q5 diesel stateside.

Europeans will have a choice of three diesel units, whereas the US market will be limited to the 3.0-liter V6 TDI, rated at 245hp and 428lb-ft of torque, with an estimated 37mpg and a 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds. As for the gasoline engines, updates include more power from the 2.0-liter turbo-four, which now manages 225hp and 258lb-ft, and the 3.2-liter V6 is replaced by a 272hp and 295lb-ft 3.0-liter V6. The Q5 with this engine under the hood manages 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and 27mpg combined. A new electric power steering system has been added to improve road feel but the adequate suspension has been left untouched.

Minimal cosmetic changes include a slightly revised grille and LED daytime running lamps for the headlights. Four new paint colors and fresh wheel designs round off the exterior improvements. As for the interior, Audi has refreshed the steering wheel, infotainment system, HVAC knobs, and the drive select system. Convenience key, three-zone automatic a/c and a panoramic glass roof are other features worthy of note. The S line sport package is still an option, and comes with a sport suspension, 19-inch wheels, sport seats and various interior upgrades.

High-tech options range from a Bang & Olufsen sound system and MMI navigation plus to a new smartphone app Audi music stream.

The 2013 Audi Q5 gasoline and hybrid models will hit showrooms this fall, with diesels scheduled for 2013. Prices have yet to be announced but are expected to start around the $37,000 mark, as per the current base model.