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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  2013 Audi Q5 3.0T Premium Plus S-line - 2013 Audi Q5
  By JPH - August 14 - 2:12 pm

  Currently at 24,000 miles with no problems (knock on wood). The car is a great blend of luxury, performance, Audi & S-line styling, and daily function. The attention to fit and finish really delivers a first-class roomy/quiet driving experience. I previously owned a Q5 2.0T. I was really surprised at the difference in the 3.0T engine - SO satisfying! While the 2.0T is an excellent engine, I did notice some turbo-lag. A five-time winner of Wards 10 best engines, the 3.0L TFSI supercharged V-6 brings joyful acceleration with a flat-torque line (272 hp @ 4,780 rpm 295 lb-ft 0-60: 5.8 sec) – it really inspires! The 8-speed Tiptronic transmission is silky smooth. Panoramic sunroof 14-speaker B&O sound & rear view camera are all very nice. Four passengers fit very comfortably though five is a bit squeeze. Ample cargo space we have no trouble loading up for camping trips - You can fit a couple mountain bikes in the rear, but the best option is a hitch or roof carrier. With 50/50 city/highway driving using premium 93 Shell V-power, my Q5 is gets 20-22 mpg. All highway definitely better recent 600 mile trip managed 30 mpg.

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  Ride is great, MMI is TERRIBLE!!! - 2015 Audi Q5
  By Betsey Hurwitz-Schwab - August 10 - 3:07 pm

  Im coming up on a year with the Q5. I love the ride, it sits well, and handles well in the snow. Unfortunately, the MMI system that controls the navigation and entertainment is TERRIBLE!!!!! It is not intuitive, it is both on the steering wheel (IF you can figure out which dial to roll) and has a small joystick on the console. It is way too confusing, too distracting, there is no touch screen and overtime I try to use it I get frustrated. The book doesnt help at all because a lot of things arent in there or arent explained clearly. The system is so bad that it colors my entire feelings about the car.

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  NOT COOL IN THE DESERT!! - 2015 Audi Q5
  By Rick Delzer - July 28 - 11:46 pm

  The sunroof is so hot. The shade doesnt stop the heat from your head and the AC does not cool the cab to comfort. Bad AC!! Shame on you Audi. I expected better for what we paid.

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  Brakes Screech known issue with no resolution - 2015 Audi Q5
  By bad103 - June 27 - 2:07 am

  The brakes have been screeching since 5,000 miles. Called Audi Care and representative said it is a known issue with no remedy. I will never buy or lease another Audi. Horrible product and response from Audi. I cannot wait for my lease to ends. Do not purchase or lease this vehicle.

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  So far, so good for the most part - 2015 Audi Q5
  By sidv - June 3 - 9:43 pm

  Have had a 2015 Q5 3.0T for five months and 2K miles now. Its the S-line with MMI and the B&O stereo. I love the looks, the comfortable seats, the panoramic roof and the smooth and torquey engine. Quattro and the 8 speed transmission make for a nice, fairly refined drivetrain. Zero issues to date but its early. As for negatives the B&O isnt much of a premium stereo and sorely lacks both overall volume and bass. The MMI is overly complicated and just OK. The back seat could be a bit roomier but is not terrible by any means. The cargo area doesnt seem as roomy as I would have hoped. Curb weight at around 4400 lbs is excessive. The engine runs out of power a bit at higher rpms

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  Audi Q5 - 6 month review - 2015 Audi Q5
  By audiexperience - May 24 - 9:23 am

  - Tires: 3 flat tires in 6 months when I have never had a flat prior. No full size space. OEM tires already discontinued after 6 months. I now have one tire that does not match and Audi has said I need to replace all the tires if I want them to match although Audi does not recommend driving with tires that do not match. Audi customer service (awful!) said it would not replace the tires, then said it would (I have a voicemail), then said it would not..... - Actual highway MPG has been 22-23 versus posted 28. I care about vehicle range hence why this matters for me. - Rattling in the winter. Constant rattles that went away when temperatures warmed up.

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  It Makes Me Smile - 2012 Audi Q5
  By optionsf - March 31 - 1:14 am

  I have shopped for an SUV for three years, awaiting the Jeep Cherokee, then opting for the AWD Nissan Rogue. When I couldnt get the color and version I wanted on time, I found a 2012 Q5 very lightly used for the same price as these new cars...only12k miles. Today I took it on the infamous run to costco and found myself smiling...when the back gate opens automatically, when I stashed the wine bottles in the compartment under the rug, when I got in and turned on the Bang & Olufsen upgraded sound, and when the turbo kicked in and I shot past another car uphill. The build quality is excellent and this 3 yr old feels tight and solid. After my last Nissan Murano, it feels like a sports car

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  Love the TDI, Skip the MMI package - 2014 Audi Q5
  By p_auyeung - March 20 - 1:44 am

  Fun car to drive. The diesel engine is amazing, especially on long journeys. The acceleration is fantastic, very good for road trips as well as battling the everyday commute. The MMI is total crap. Voice recognition doesnt recognize much, and the navigation takes far too long to start up. Ive given up using it. The stereo system is a bit on the quiet side, even with the B&O package.

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  Fun to drive, electronics are a hassle - 2015 Audi Q5
  By Linda L Ross - March 14 - 4:44 pm

  This turbo SUV is a blast to drive. The leather wrapped steering wheel and shifter feel expensive. Does great in the snow with factory tires. Backup camera peeps when in Reverse if there is something in front of the car (so not helpful). Too many clicks to do simple things like change the radio station or climate control. Overly complicated electronics (I came from a Lexus RX). Put this engine in a Lexus and I would go back in a heartbeat.

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  No spare and no run flats. - 2014 Audi Q5
  By sdond - December 3 - 6:21 pm

  What i love:seeing the motor shut off when going down the hills-even at 70mph. Electric only until I press down too hard. Ive got two cars-- a hybrid + a regular Q5. What I dont like: No one bothered to tell me that it has no spare tire--even the sales lady missed this. In fairness--if I get a flat--Im not gonna tackle trying to fix it myself anymore at my age---but come on guys!! Dont count on any below the floor storage space. With the sports package the seats are wonderful. Gas mileage is good for a car this size.....but at the price thats not so much as issue. Almost got the BMW X3 diesel--but this thing blows the BMW away with its power-- with about the same gas mileage.