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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  Great Car! - 2010 Audi Q5
  By FunToDrive - April 8 - 11:25 am

  We drive our Q5 in the LA area and love it! Its good looking, quick, quiet and fun!

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  Great SUV - 2010 Audi Q5
  By The_Boston_Runner - April 6 - 10:26 am

  This is by far the best SUV in this size and price range. We test drove the XC60, RX350, GLK350, X3, SRX and the RDX. The Q5 comes out on top quality wise.

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  Very nice with a few caveats... - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Audi Driver - February 28 - 10:13 am

  Overall, the Q5 is a wonderful driving experience. I live up north and it handles extremely well in the snow. Very comfortable and pleasant to drive. However, there are issues. The nav system, although nice looking, gives unreliable directions. I use my $180 portable instead. And the key. How do you screw up an ignition key? The MMI (multi media) system is nice but forgets your settings. Stupid things like always having to tell it to "shuffle" the music - every time you use it it requires 4 clicks. It also forgets your seat heater settings. Also, with the MMI buttons on the middle console, its very easy to accidentally touch one. Why doesnt it have a touch screen???!!

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  Wow, really the best car! - 2010 Audi Q5
  By G - February 28 - 8:45 am

  WOW, what a terrific vehicle. I read a review before buying it that claimed it was the only SUV that truly drove like a car unlike others who claim the same, and I agree. It is very fun to drive, got hit with many snow storms this winter and I just drove right through everything with no problem, passing other struggling cars. Handles great, comfortable ride, technology is convenient. I have the Prestige package, fully loaded, and I dont regret spending the extra money. Its a beautiful car and I feel good about myself when being seen with it (as shallow as that sounds) I have the Luxury package with the Milano Leather and ventilated seats, which I cant wait to try in the summer! BEST CAR

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  Very Strange Experience So Far - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Greg - February 4 - 11:25 pm

  The car runs well, but when we brought the car in for the first service we were told the water pump had a leak and they had to replace it, but it needed to be ordered. When they received the part we brought the car back to the dealer and they replaced the water pump but then told us there was a small leak in the transmission and they said Audi told them to replace the transmission. Went back when they received the transmission and they replaced it but then they said it was programmed for a diesel and had to order another one. Next one came and same problem. Now we are waiting for the 3rd transmission to arrive and the car has been there for 2 weeks. Still waiting for my car.

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  Buyer Beware - 2010 Audi Q5
  By stma1 - February 2 - 4:59 am

  Audi Q5 is a great vehicle as long as you do not drive under 10 mph, I have a major transmission issue, 3rd replacement in 2 months, Audi corporate will not stand behind their products and work with you to satisfy yourself as a consumer, my vehicle has lurched and hesitated when coming to a stop causing 2 near accidents, I have never experienced such poor customer service form a corporate and a dealer standpoint, they act like it is my fault there is an issue, you have been warned!

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  Just Plain Fun to Drive - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Rob - January 19 - 1:33 pm

  I purchased the prestige S-line model, and love it. I was looking at the RX350, RDX, XC60,etc.. and this beats them out of the race. The car is awesome looking from the outside and has all the gadgets to keep you happy. It is more masculine so guys can drive this feeling good and I get alot of looks But best of all it does not feel like you are driving an SUV but more like a car. Space is just right, but if needing to hall more stuff in the hatch, then this may not be for you, but if your getting around town, taking kids and going to work this is perfect.

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  Premium plus, really nice - 2010 Audi Q5
  By moose123 - January 12 - 9:35 pm

  Nice car. Interior design and quality are substantial. Handles exceptionally well. Power is faultless. Gives a feeling of total control over driving experience. Stock stereo with satellite radio is outstanding. Love that everything is lit at night, no fumbling for any controls. Easy integration with cell phone and i pod, voice commands work, nav. controls are confusing at first, but get better over time. There is still lots to learn about how to get the most out of the electronics. Roof rack is exceptionally easy to put on. A long list of suggested improvements, but still a killer car.

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  Great pick if changing from coupe - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Qutie - January 5 - 11:10 pm

  I changed from a Honda Accord coupe into the 2010 Q5 Premium Plus model with the S-Line package. I love the smooth ride, the quiet of the engine and the ability to pick up speed quickly. As for changing over from a coupe to a crossover, it has been seamless. The car is nimble, parks in standard spaces yet feels a lot larger when on the road. It also offers great general visibility from all sides. I didnt get the optional side assist feature, but still feel great about the views I do get.

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  Awesome - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Northern VA Driver - January 2 - 8:07 pm

  I purchased this vehicle a week ago. The driving experience has far exceeded expectations. The AWD keeps it glued to the road and the acceleration is very good. Acceleration from 0 to 20 MPH is not fast, but after 40 MPH, acceleration is sports car like. This is my first SUV and I was concerned about driving fun. However, the high up seating position affords excellent visibility, the Q5 handles like a car and it is an overall fun ride. I compared this to the RDX, XC60, RX350 and am very satisfied. The Q5 is a luxury SUV/car, that is just the right size. The Audi cockpit and attention to detail cant be beat. Also, the Q5 has plenty of room for the wife and kids.