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. Â 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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Exellent Vehicle - 2010 Audi Q5
By BettyH - May 23 - 4:05 pmI have driven lots of cars, and this one takes the cake. Handling and overall performance are better then my wifes A4, and it has much more cargo capacity.
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Many problems - 2009 Audi Q5
By jackiew - May 20 - 5:28 pmThis car was my first luxury car and what a disappointment. Engine light comes on and stays on but dealer cant find a problem. Air conditioner works sometimes. Has a problem restarting when gassing up. Service not what is promised in the sales pitch. Would sell tomorrow if I could get my money back. My husband has driven several luxury cars without these kind of headaches.
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Fun to drive & different among the crowd - 2010 Audi Q5
By sarahs - May 18 - 3:44 pmI purchased the 2010 with the prestige S line package. So far I love to drive it and there are no problems.Only difficulty is operating the MMI. But once you get used to it, its not too bad.
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The Best - 2009 Audi Q5
By Sailor - May 15 - 5:29 pmWould like to see some reviews on 2010 model. Considered the BMW X3 & X5, VW Tiguan & Tourag and MB GLK. Decided the Q5 was the best bet. Have owned it for 30 days and havent regretted my choice yet. Overall quality, fit & finish, drivability are outstanding. Negative comments in 2009 reviews seem to be fixed for 2010 (steering and tranny). Gadgets are mind boggling until you learn how to use the and then you learn to love them.
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Best Car ever - 2010 Audi Q5
By Bob Whalen - May 7 - 9:25 pmThis vehicle is the pinnacle of luxury. It outperforms anything else I have driven. Its ride is unique, firm but smooth at the same time. Its a definite buy.
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Side mirror/ hatch back dr/ Cruise contr - 2009 Audi Q5
By Dragonfly - May 6 - 8:49 pmI enjoy my car and it is awesome looking but the side mirrors are too big to be point that I even had an accident because of them.1st time in 37 years and the hatch back door needs to be automatic in all models. Cruise control is terrible as it is an instant when you try to change the set speed. Other than that, all else is great. Dragonfly
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Buyer beware of water pump issues - 2009 Audi Q5
By Mark - April 23 - 2:32 pmI have been very happy with my Audi Q5 until today. Had car towed into dealership after the coolant burst in the engine compartment. I pretty much lost all coolant - luckily i was about to park it in the garage. Found out today that the water pump failed at 7,800 miles. It is covered under warranty but warranty or not this is a major issue. I have so far seen a mass of posts with the same issue. Fortunately for me the engine never had the opportunity to overheat. Audi needs to address the issue with their current owners immediately.
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nice driving poor reliability - 2010 Audi Q5
By cemi - April 23 - 1:56 pmWhen I bought mi Q5 prestige, I was very happy but all the problems started.A/C broke down twice, dealership had to replace to parts on both headlights,leak on the transmission etc etc.Nice looking car, fun to drive POOR RELIABILITY. TRADED IN FOR A LEXUS.
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Audi Q5 front LED light broken 3 times - 2010 Audi Q5
By Christine Yao - April 19 - 4:58 pmI am reporting review AUDI Q5 (year of 2010) because the front daylight headlight running sets problems, I purchased an AUDI Q5 in 9/23/2009, it happened 3 times of front headlight daylight running sets broken in 5 months, my cars current mileage is only 5700 mile, which is apparently not the LED headlight quality problem, which is highly possible on the electrical problems, now I am waiting for AUDIs response to see they will treat it as a lemon car case or not.
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Great SUV - 2010 Audi Q5
By Sb - April 15 - 9:36 amI had a Q5 Premium plus with S-line package, had this vehicle for almost 2 weeks now & I will say that this is the best car I ever had. Day time running LED lights makes a cool stylish appearance. Ride is great & quite, car keeps on lane with very little steering effort. Interior fit & finish is excellent. MMI nav is not really user friendly, but once used will be ok, would love if have touch screen.. The display on meter shows the songs list & tel numbers without interfering nav screen is great. I would definitely recommend any one looking to buy a compact SUV to drive this car.
