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:

• 

  Loving my new Q5 - 2011 Audi Q5
  By JillQ - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I have never owned a crossover vehicle before, Weve had the Q5 3.2 Premium Plus w/navigation for a few days now and I have found myself taking the long way home whenever I can. It drives much like a car...handles great and and has a nice turn radius.I love the quietness of the car when your inside with the windows closed its well soundproofed.

• 

  2 months in - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Tx Transplant - September 15 - 2:00 am

  I wrote an earlier review and dont have much to add I thoroughly enjoy the vehicle and am very happy with the choice. I do have some observations: my wife, who is 5 2" drove my car one time and really disliked the oversize side mirrors as they obscured her view I am 61" and havent had that problem so maybe its an issue only for smaller stature folks. If I could change one thing it still would be opting for all-season radials instead of the summer performance tires. Also, a minor beef: the rear view camera takes a few moments to initialize so I find Im having to wait after hopping in and cranking the ignition before I can begin to back up. All in all a great car!

• 

  Cross country tourer, urban worker - 2011 Audi Q5
  By Travis - September 13 - 2:00 am

  Superb driving dynamics, I last owned an Audi in 1998, and everything has moved well ahead. Also owned FX35, RDX. This is better than both on sheer driving satisfaction - fast, quiet, comfortable, roomy, competent and handles great. 28mpg on a 2,700 mile cross country trip to LA, over the Rockies. Panorama roof and screen were fine, and quite enjoyable under varied conditions. Opted against Navi, not a 3d fan and in 5yrs, resale on Navi I am betting will not be worthwhile given many great options emerging on handhelds. Love the 2.0t and also the 8 sp and the S drive choice is quite a good aggressive option for urban cut and thrust. Roomy, efficient, and beautiful. Big ups for the Q5.

• 

  My Best Car Purchase Yet - 2011 Audi Q5
  By TNPharm - September 12 - 2:00 am

  After researching dozens of cars for months, I decided to visit my local Audi dealer to check out the Q5. I was immediately in love with this car. The design is beautiful,fit and finish is amazing. The engine is smooth and powerful. Audi has a real winner with the Q5.

• 

  AUDI Q5 fun to drive - 2011 Audi Q5
  By FRED - September 9 - 2:00 am

  I have only driven this car for two weeks and am thrilled with it. Two most outstanding attributes is its performance and comfort. The torque generated from this engine is incredible. You feel as though you are driving a car with a lot more horsepower. The size and pep make it so much fun to drive.

• 

  Happy with - 2011 Audi Q5
  By evansto - September 5 - 7:15 am

  I moved from a Mercedes ML350 to the Q5. I went with the 2.0T over the 3.2, it seemed more fun to drive and I like the turbo sound when it kicks in. The vehicle is quiet (not as quiet as the ML) and the ride is very nice, firm yet quiet and solid. The steering is good but I wish it was more tight like the Mercedes and the BMW. The handling is superb, much more car like than truck like. The comfort is very good, the seats are much better than the Mercedes and it seems like there are more adjustment options. I wish there was a little more thigh support. The rear seats are a little thin and there is not much leg room but not an issue for me. Gas mileage looking promising, I got 24 combo.

• 

  One sweet ride - 2011 Audi Q5
  By butch - September 2 - 6:51 pm

  This vehicle is a pleasure to drive. It drives very smooth with plenty of power for a 4 cylinder.The build quality is up there with Mercedes & BMW. I had a 2003 Acura MDX and paid more for the Acura. The Audi Q5 as far as I am concerned is a lot of bang for your buck.

• 

  Loving it - 2011 Audi Q5
  By Audi Fan - September 1 - 11:17 pm

  Comparing to most of the SUV, the ride is so much smoother and quiet. Handling is excellent. Pick up is good with lots of power. I love the sporty look and gorgeous design. I love the new color "Teak Brown", it is cool, elegant and unique. Although the price is slightly higher than other competitors, it is still worth it. Cant go wrong with the German technology.

• 

  Q5 exceeds expectations - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Northeast Q5 - August 26 - 7:49 pm

  Purchased the 2010 Q5 about 5 weeks ago and this vehicle has exceeded all my expectations. It rides and handles beautifully. It feels very safe and stable and can stop on a dime. The interior is also quite impressive. It just looks and feels great. Really nice to drive after a long day at work. Averaging 26 mpg between 20% city and 80% highway driving. Overall, I would not hesitate to purchase another Q5 if anything ever happens to this one.

• 

  Dont need the V-6 - 2011 Audi Q5
  By eastbay9 - August 20 - 7:14 pm

  My girlfriend and I drove both the 3.2 and 2.0T, needless to say we went for the 2.0T. This engine delivers more torque than the V-6 and torque is what drives power to the wheels. The 2.0 felt more tossable and having 8-speeds vs. 6-speeds made this vehicle a blast to drive. So far we are averaging 22 mpg combined driving. We also cross shopped the Mercedes GLK and Acura RSX but none of these other vehicles felt close with respect to interior comfort features.