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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  The Best Compact SUV in the Market - 2010 Audi Q5
  By acalady - June 24 - 7:42 pm

  It was love at first sight! From the moment I saw the Q5 I knew thats what I wanted and had been waiting for. I had already made a deal on a BMW X3, but I was not 100% convinced that I liked the car, particular the stiff ride. I drive a lot. Every week-end Im on the road and driving my Q5 is a dream come true! It is just pure pleasure! I love how the cockpit looks when it gets dark.

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  Complete Package - 2009 Audi Q5
  By forum24 - June 24 - 6:49 pm

  I dont know what is happening with the people who are claiming to have such catastrophic problems with their Q5s. I myself and two other acquaintances all bought Q5s last spring or summer. Between the 3 cars, none of us have experienced a single problem with any of them, and I have put 16,000 miles on in the first year alone. I had leased several LexusÂ’s prior, and was reluctant to change brands specifically because I was worried about reliability: I did, and have never been happier. This car is gorgeous, comfortable and has more features than I could get in the Lexus for a comparable price- and as of now, the Audi is more reliable!

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  Design flaw - 2010 Audi Q5
  By maverick - June 23 - 9:29 am

  During snow or rain, when the rear hatch is opened, to gain access to the rear compartment, water, snow, dirt and salt build up in the drain channel and then run into the rear compartment. Ive seen the mess run over the rubber seal. The dealer said they cannot do anything but maybe Audi will contact me and see if the problem can be solved. To date, no additional contact.

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  Best SUV I have Owned - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Jason - June 23 - 9:06 am

  I LOVE my new Audi Q5. Its Comfortable, handles great and is so easy to drive. No problems since I purchased. Service Department is Awesome. I will Definitely purchase another Audi for wifes next vehicle. Thank you AUDI Great Job.

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  Best crossover - 2010 Audi Q5
  By dej - June 13 - 2:55 pm

  Replaced my 2009 Murano. This crossover rides so much better. More responsive steering. Handling around curves much better. Quieter on the highway. Less obstructed rearward view. Interior much finer albeit a tad bit smaller. The Audi doesnt quite match the cargo space of the Murano, but I dont miss it. I do wish the gas mileage was a little better, but this is after all a crossover not a car.

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  Star Performance - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Lualoa - June 6 - 9:12 pm

  We recently purchased a 2010 Q5 Premium Plus at Classic Audi and absolutely love it. It handles very well and commands the road.

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  Good car but not perfect - 2010 Audi Q5
  By pathguy - June 2 - 5:32 pm

  Side mirrors are too big and create large blind spots. I needed to take car in to have transmission "reprogrammed" in second week of owning the car. otherwise, Q5 is a good car.

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  New Audi Q5 (Premier) first impression - 2010 Audi Q5
  By David Olson - June 1 - 4:30 pm

  I have had my Q5 for one month (1300 miles). Moved up from 2005 Subaru Outback XT (turbo). The car feels bigger than it is (probably high hood), but the handling is superb. Nice turn radius, positive/stable in twisties, and smooth/fast acceleration. Steering feels 1:1 and no issue. Noted comment on hesitation from stop to start havent experienced this. Shifting smooth all the way up sport mode is RESPONSIVE. Interior is beautiful. MMI and voice work, but there is a learning curve: reading instruction book helps! It is more expensive than the Suby (for the money, very good value). But if a luxury compact SUV is your thing, then the Q5 is an excellent choice I highly recommend the Q5.

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  Audi-be better - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Audi-be better - May 25 - 4:31 pm

  Beautiful car but has flaws... 1) The navigation system: does not allow searching for a restaurant type. for instance you cannot ask for Chinese, Mexican or Italian food - you just get a list of restaurants that includes everything from "taco bell" to "chez panesse". 2) The brake pads spew dark dust that spray the side of the car daily. There are no mud-flaps to prevent overspray from the front wheels so the side of my car is covered in break dust from the wheels daily. 3) Who uses dvds? Get rid of the dvd player. 4) Who uses an ashtray? Get rid of the ashtray or at least make it larger so it can be used to hold a cell phone or business cards - its a useless space.

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  Good Car - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Bob Whalen - May 23 - 4:07 pm

  This car is wonderful. For a car this small you think it would be cramped but its not. A definite buy