Name: Audi Q5 Review
Item: Audi Q5
Author: Gumtree.com

The Q5 is the latest in mid-size luxury SUVs from Audi. In such a busy segment, the Q5 forges its own path by offering a petrol four-cylinder or diesel V6 – not to mention the sportier SQ5 variant that was added in 2012. In 2017, the Q5 returned with its latest remodel, fixing a lot of the teething issues of its predecessors. This dynamic motor with a range of the latest tech will leave you feeling safe and secure – and it’s still a touch sporty on those higher trims. A practical and executive style with a wide variety of trims and engine options, the Q5 is one to beat in the world of swanky family cars.

Head to the Audi page for more details on the Q5.

What we think about the Audi Q5

Audi’s latest version of the Q5 is designed with families in mind, delivering a spacious interior, practical features and thoughtful cargo space.

Pros

Comfortable and stable ride thanks to new suspension

Advanced infotainment system as standard

Generously spacious interior

Cons

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Expensive running costs

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Fuel consumption isn’t exactly economical

Audi’s five-seater mid-size SUV is the cornerstone of their new range. The Q5’s second generation comes with six available trim options, each with its own nuanced design and added extras. Its 18-inch alloys add style and come as standard, as does Audi’s infotainment system, a range of engine specs and keyless ignition. Sure, it’s not cheap, but it’s a tempting package overall.

Driving performance of the Audi Q5

Our Driving Rating8 / 10

It may not be the most thrilling driving experience, but the luxury SUV offers superb performance and handling. Most notably, Audi’s drive select system comes as standard across all of the Q5’s trims. This means that its handling specs – including throttle response, transmission shift pattern and steering response – can be determined and adjusted to your own personal preference. It’s not the only nifty bit of tech included – all Q5 models also come with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system as standard, and the engine range features several impressive hybrid options.

Safety and reliability of the Audi Q5

Our Safety Rating10 / 10

The Q5 scored a maximum five-star rating when it was assessed by Euro NCAP in 2017, so it’s no surprise that it’s packed with Audi’s latest safety tech. Every Q5 benefits from LED lights, Quattro all-wheel drive, and autonomous emergency braking – features often seen as optional extras on rival models. Two Isofix child seat-mounting points in the rear seats and six airbags are impressive, but Audi goes one step further and offers an Isofix mounting point on the front passenger seat as an optional extra. Adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and cross-traffic alert to advise you of oncoming vehicles when reversing are optional specs worth considering.

Under the bonnet of the Audi Q5

Our Engine Rating8 / 10

Good news if you’re looking to go green: a pair of plug-in hybrid Q5s was added in 2019, both using a 2.0-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor. They produce 299 bhp and 367 bhp respectively, while the latter is capable of completing the 0-62 mph sprint in 5.3 seconds and will reach a top speed of 149 mph. A 2.0-litre petrol engine is the pick of petrol range if you’d prefer maximum performance to lower running costs, producing 252 bhp. Its 2.0-litre diesel engine is still Audi’s most economical, producing 190 bhp.

What you'll find in the Audi Q5

Our Design Rating8 / 10

Audi has built its image on its instantly recognisable design, which continues with the Q5 – a luxurious, spacious and stylish crossover SUV. Sleek and angular LED headlights sit either side of the signature grille, creating a clean and tightly wrapped look. Audi SUV design hallmarks are also present and accounted for at the rear, including sharply tapered LED tail-lights, the large boot-hatch door covering nearly the full width of the body, and a substantial spoiler continuing the roofline across the top of the back window.

Comfort and interiors in the Audi Q5

Our Comfort Rating8 / 10

One area that the first-generation Q5 nailed was comfort, and you can expect no less on the new ones. The front cabin section has a sporty cockpit feel thanks to the dashboard’s angular projection back towards the cabin, and there’s a broad centre console between the seats. You’ll find plenty of legroom available in the front, and the mid-size armrest contains a handy USB port and AUX jack. The back seats will comfortably fit three adults, and at 550 litres the boot can take all the suitcases, golf clubs or pushchairs they want to bring along.

What features you'll find in the Audi Q5

Our Features Rating8 / 10

You’d expect an array of high-end features and advanced technology from the latest Q5, and Audi really delivers. The main focus is the ‘Audi virtual cockpit’, a 12.3-inch configurable digital cluster that sits above the steering wheel. Additionally, there’s an 8.3-inch hi-res colour display that manages the Audi ‘MMI’ infotainment system, which includes a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included as standard. There’s also an abundance of safety tech and three-zone climate control.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Audi Q5

Our Fuel Consumption Rating6 / 10

If green credentials are a must, then the new hybrids have you covered. The 50 and 55 TFSI e deliver the most impressive fuel economy and CO2 figures, as you might expect – 117mpg and 62g/km CO2 emissions for the 50 TFSI and 108mpg and 60g/km CO2 emissions for the 55 TFSI e. However, you need to plug the car in regularly to achieve these figures. If it’s got to be old-fashioned combustion, not to worry – the 40 TDI delivers its leading mpg figure of up to 39.2 mpg, while the petrol version, the 45 TFSI, offers 33.2 mpg and 193g/KM of CO2 emissions, which is still pretty economical.

Running costs of the Audi Q5

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

It’s a case of so far so good for the current Audi Q5 – not being subject to any recalls since its launch in 2016. The first-generation Q5 faced four different official recalls relating to a shattering sunroof, a loss of braking performance and a potential fuel leak. These issues have since been resolved by Audi, but are worth checking if you’re considering a used Q5. Audi offers a three-year unlimited warranty, and the recommended service interval is 12 months or every 12,500 miles.

Our verdict of the Audi Q5

4.5 / 5 Gumtree rating

Audi delivers an effortlessly smooth drive and high-tech interior, with the right balance of space and comfort for the whole family.

Audi Q5 Review