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:

• 

  Little big Audi - 2010 Audi Q5
  By Chris - October 23 - 12:23 pm

  Great car to drive for short and long distances. I drive it during great traffic hours via NYC and it is fantastic! Car handling, design, interactive navigation, great stereo as well as huge sun roof are fantastic. I had BMW sport wagon and there is no comparison, as Audi is much better.

• 

  Awesome Xover - 2010 Audi Q5
  By lmariorod - October 22 - 7:38 pm

  What an awesome vehicle. Only owned one foreign car, an Accord. Was shopping for several xovers and fell in love with this vehicle immediately. DO NOT test drive this beast, otherwise you will love it. Handles like a sedan and I havent yet broken in, so Ive only touched the surface of this Q5s potential. Heard people say Audis were nice but never really liked any of their sedans, except for the TT. If this Q5 is decently reliable, Ill be an Audi purchaser again. Love my Q5!!

• 

  My Q and I - 2016 Audi Q5
  By FERGIE - October 20 - 7:38 pm

  Love it....

• 

  Q5 is best choice I could have made - 2009 Audi Q5
  By Kim in Seattle - October 11 - 6:19 am

  Was driving an S-line A6 for past 2 years and while it was great it was too big for me. The Q5 has the luxury of the A6 and the nimbleness of the A4 all packaged in a functional SUV. I have wanted a mini SUV for years but they all look like soccer mom cars until the Q5. Thats what made the difference. The exterior is so aggressive and sporty vs cute. One touch of the power hatch lift button and I can get my bike in the cargo area or pack up for a road trip. My husband wanted to keep the A6 and even he admits the Q5 is pretty cool.

• 

  Transmission default - 2009 Audi Q5
  By alex - October 6 - 9:32 pm

  Although a very good looking car and fun to drive at high speeds, this car transmission technology is still too new and Audi has not full control over it, I have a default transmission, and am not the only one, they have no right answers as how to fix it, they first exchange the mechatronics which has nothing to do with the jerking of the transmission in the lower gears, and after trying different things and not being able to repair the car their best solution is to replace the entire transmission in a vehicle that has less than 2800 miles. That to me as a customer is unacceptable.

• 

  X3 not even close - 2010 Audi Q5
  By FT02 - October 3 - 6:58 am

  Owned a BMW 325XI for 4 years and needed an SUV. Drove everything in the class, X3, VW Toureg, Nissan Murano, Toyota Highlander Mercedes etc and nothing at all comes even close to the level of refinement, exterior looks, interior (Audi sets the bench mark here). 270 Bhp, stunning LED daytime running lights, adequate usable space with the seats folded down. My wife absolutely loves it and made quick work of her first Costco run in the Q5 easily loading everything into the back with a smile on her face. (happy wife, happy life). Too bad the 3.0 TDI that is in the Q7 is not available in the Q5 at this time.

• 

  Great SUV! - 2016 Audi Q5
  By Bill - September 30 - 3:29 am

  We bought the 2016 3.0 TDI prestige package with all options and we are very happy with the choice we made. Fuel economy is very good and the handling is excellent. The only minor inconveniences are that it lacks USB ports and the color navigation screen is not touch screen which makes it somewhat cumbersome. Other then that a very confrontable ride for an SUV.

• 

  Audi Q5 - Great SUV! - 2009 Audi Q5
  By Phil in Dallas - September 14 - 3:06 pm

  My wife in on her second Audi (first an A4, now an A6). Im the "designated SUV driver" in the family. I had a 5 year old Nissan Murano, which performed well and was a good value, but Ive always been jealous of my wifes Audi(s). I looked at several mid-sized SUVs as a replacement, but none compared with the Q5. It drives like a sport sedan, with all of the comfort and convenience of a SUV. The size is perfect for getting around downtown and parking spaces, but it feels very large inside.

• 

  Sweet Ride - 2010 Audi Q5
  By DixSea - September 2 - 1:30 pm

  Wow! My Audi Q5 was delivered on Monday & what a sweet surprise! I had bought it sight unseen and w/out a test drive... I am impressed! The ride is smooth, it handles like a dream! The interior is classy comfortable & has enough bells & whistles to thrill any technophile! The Navigation is easy to use, bluetooth simple and the look is perfect! The panoramic sunroof is impressive providing the feel of a convertible! The exterior is beautiful with nice design and a sleek sexy look! This is a drivers dream in a mid-size SUV... Look out Lexus and BMW, theres a new kid in town!!!

• 

  Awesome, almost perfect, Audi - 2009 Audi Q5
  By Elle - August 28 - 9:13 pm

  This car looks and handles great. It is fun to drive, has plenty of cargo space, and has a great sound system. I came from a Mercedes with every bell and whistle imaginable and with this car, dont miss it. I agree that the side mirrors are too big and take getting used to. I do also agree the the shifting of the gears when breaking can be a little jerky- I may just need to get used to it.