Overview & Reviews

The compact crossover SUV is larger and higher than a hatchback but more fuel-efficient and easier to park than a bigger sport-ute. This is a combination that clearly appeals to many car shoppers, including those who want a more premium automotive experience. For them, the Audi Q5 delivers much of what they should both want and need. Think of the Q5 as an A4 sedan with more cargo space, a higher center of gravity and a measure of off-road capability and you won't be far off the mark. It also boasts some of the sleekest sheet metal in a stylishly competitive class.

Audi is known for high-quality interiors, and the Q5 doesn't disappoint. The model's downsides include a rather firm ride and its price, which can get uncomfortably expensive at the upper trim levels. Even so, a new or used Audi Q5 is worth consideration for people interested in a smaller luxury crossover SUV.

Current Audi Q5
The five-seat Audi Q5 is available in four trim levels that correspond to engine: 2.0T Premium, 3.0T Premium Plus, 3.0 TDI Premium Plus and 2.0T Hybrid Prestige.

The 2.0T comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 that makes 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The 3.0T features a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with 272 hp and 295 lb-ft. The TDI has a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 with 240 hp and a massive 428 lb-ft. The Q5 Hybrid pairs the 2.0T's engine with an electric motor and battery pack to provide a total output of 245 hp and 350 lb-ft. All come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Regardless of engine choice, performance and fuel economy are impressive, especially so with the TDI. The Hybrid's fuel economy is actually 1 mpg lower than the TDI, and as such makes questionable buying sense.

Standard feature highlights of the base but aptly named Premium trim include leather upholstery, power front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) and a 10-speaker sound system that includes an iPod/USB input. Higher trim levels offer niceties like a power liftgate, the available Audi Drive Select system (with selectable modes for throttle response, transmission shift points and steering assist), a navigation system and a Bang & Olufsen sound system

Inside, the Audi Q5 is quite similar to the A4, which is to say it features high-quality materials and an attractive dashboard layout. Maximum cargo capacity is unimpressive at about 57 cubic feet, but if hauling large loads isn't a top priority, the Q5 is otherwise a thoroughly competent crossover.

Of the many flavors to choose from in the luxury compact crossover segment, we think Audi's is one of the most appealing. In reviews, we've found that the Q5 strikes a remarkably satisfying balance between performance and comfort. Despite having more than 4,000 pounds of curb weight to contend with, all the powertrains are up to the task, furnishing more than ample thrust. The steering is accurate and nicely weighted, and body control is quite good for a taller vehicle. At the same time, the ride can be a bit too firm, with nastier bumps being sent into your backside more than they would be in some rival SUVs.

Used Audi Q5 Models
The Audi Q5 debuted for 2010, powered by a 3.2-liter 270-hp V6 engine matched to a six-speed automatic. The following year brought the efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 paired up to the eight-speed automatic.

For 2013, the original 3.2-liter V6 was discontinued, but the supercharged V6 and the brand's first hybrid were added. A mild refresh also occurred, with a more angular theme for the lights and grille, along with simplified climate and MMI controls.  Apart from the 2.0T having slightly less power (211 hp versus 220 hp), the unavailability of the TDI and a slight shuffling of equipment, these latter Q5s are similar to the current version.

User Reviews:

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  LOVE THIS CAR - 2011 Audi Q5
  By ebeleye - January 20 - 9:32 am

  Long-time BMW driver who was looking for a new experience...I found it with this amazing car. Fantastic handling, great power, good build quality, supreme comfort. The technology in this car was also a big seller for me (MMI/nav system is awesome). I had wanted to buy a Volvo Xc60, as I like the sporty looks of that SUV (and the understatement of driving a Volvo). However, compared to the Q5, the Volvos interior and ride quality were totally lacking. This car handles like a sports coupe, and it is just so much fun to drive. Also looked at the new x3, sadly BMW missed the mark with the styling of that new release.

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  Love my Q5 - 2010 Audi Q5
  By caraddict1 - January 18 - 9:03 pm

  I have had my 2010 for a little over a year. I only had one problem with it and that was three weeks ago. The water pump went while I was driving. My husband came and had the suv towed on a flat bed to the dealer we bought it from. They told him they had no idea why the water pump went (not common on 3.2 engines). They told my husband to wait and fixed it right then and there. Now that is service. It is great on the road it hugs it. Great miles on the highway driving. I would buy another one in a heart beat. No regrets.

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  Audi Q5 2.0T Premium Plus - No Need for V-6 - 2011 Audi Q5
  By ricks8 - January 15 - 12:47 pm

  What a great vehicle! We bought a new Q5 2.0T for my wife to replace her 12 year old Lexus RX. We couldnt be happier so far and love everything about the car from styling to performance to value (under $40K). The Q5 was the runaway winner after comparing to the new RX (what is wrong with Lexus??!!), Volvo XC60, Infiniti EX and FX, Cadillac SRX, LR2, and MB GLK among others. (We looked at everything except the BMW X3, which wasnt available yet in December and we knew would be ridiculously priced anyway). The 2.0T will provide the best fuel economy and more than enough power - a shock to me. I would have never through a 4 cylinder could power an SUV like this one.

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  Best car Ive ever owned... so far. - 2011 Audi Q5
  By zekespaw - January 10 - 5:06 pm

  Ive owned many cars (in no particular order) VWs, Fords, Subarus, Infinity, Lexus, etc. I have never had a car that was more enjoyable to drive, be in, or look at. It handles so very well on wet, dry, bumpy, smooth, pavement, uphill or flat. Its quick and tight. But its also very comfortable and plush. The seats are amazingly comfortable and supportive. Visibility is wonderful. Its got the Nav., which I was hesitant to get, but now LOVE! The Audio system is great, especially the iPod dock and controls. Got the Teak with the Cardamon (beige) leather. Gorgeous! Ive never had a brown car, and this is a real beauty. So far... so good. Ive had it less than one week.

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  Look Out BMW and Mercedes - 2011 Audi Q5
  By altoberst - January 4 - 4:20 pm

  I ordered a Premium Plus 2011 exactly to my specs with B&O stereo (worth every penny), 19" wheels, hitch, and navigation. Quartz Gray w/ Cinnamon interior. The Q-5 blew away my expectations. With 12,000+ miles it is consistently delivering 28 mpg on the highway. Amazing! Also ordered special Audi package 20" wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asymetrico all-season aftermarket tires on it. WOW! The car tracks like an arrow and looks fantastic. The interior functions are laid out better than any vehicle I have ever driven. Dont need to take your eyes off the road for any reason.

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  Great SUV - 2011 Audi Q5
  By bruddahkimo - January 2 - 10:21 pm

  This is our 4th Audi and its our favorite one. We had a Q7 and it was awesome, but a bit too big for us. We went down to an A3 and it was too small. However, the Q5 fits in the middle and it suits our needs perfectly. I cant get over how fun it is to drive the Q5 and it drives very much like a car. Its a very practical car and we think its awesome!

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  First rate ride - 2011 Audi Q5
  By dharper - December 19 - 10:30 am

  I just traded in my wifes 2008 Platnium Toyota Sequoia for this small more manageable Audi. Having been a fan of Audis for the last few years, I drive an A8L, thought she would enjoy being able to step into, instead of climbing up into, a luxury vehicle. She is extremely satisfied with how the car handles, the excellent visibility, and the smooth power train, not to mention the upgrade to the bang and olfsen sound system. Audi is the vehicle to challenge all others.

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  Soooo much better than the X3 - 2011 Audi Q5
  By woodlink - December 12 - 11:04 am

  I bought a used 2010 X3, drove it for three weeks and hated it. Rode like a brick on concrete wheels (ultrastiff). Ive owned BMWs before and can say that the X3 is a complete mess. Returned it to dealer who gave me full value back - thanks Carmax. Having success years ago with an A4, I test drove the Q5 and bought it on the spot. A similarly equipped unit from Benz or BMW would be thousands more. BTW - A voluntary recall is in effect for the 2011 Q5 and it deals with a computer update that improves transmission shifting. (downshifting was a bit rough). Existing inventory on dealers lots should already be updated. The update on mine did the trick and the trans works perfectly

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  Sweet Machine - 2011 Audi Q5
  By geezer113 - December 10 - 12:26 pm

  This is a sweet handling, tight, good looking personal utility vehicle (PUV). The size is right and the 2.0t engine/8 speed transmission combination is like driving a Swiss watch. The power/torque curves in the 1500-3500 RPM range we live in are actually stronger than the 3.2 V-6. It handles and rides like an A4 but hauls anything you want to haul. The panoramic sunroof is stunning, and the feature content of the base model is all you need.

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  If only it had a better transmission - 2011 Audi Q5
  By petehogwallop - November 27 - 2:00 am

  After 1500 miles a few observations about the car. While overall a nice ride, it is hampered by the 8 speed tranny. It stutters and can be very harsh at low speeds (under 10mph). It feels similar to a car that is sputtering at idle, although it is coming from the transmission, not the engine. The tranny also is constantly shifting, and the sport mode doesnt seem to make it any "smarter" at gear selection, it just holds it for higher revs. My Sienna minivan provides smarter, smoother, quicker shifts (hows that for an insult?).