Audi’s Q5 has been a frontrunner in the medium-sized SUV segment for decades. The first-generation car arrived way back in 2008, after all, and since then, its popularity has only grown with each new model.
But the thing is, the Q5 isn’t alone in this segment today. In fact, there’s such a sheer number of options available that the Audi hasn’t got a clear route to the top anymore – so we’ve been trying out the very latest model to see what it has to offer.
What’s new?
It’s quite a comprehensive update, this one. The exterior of the Q5 has been completely overhauled, integrating a look that we’ve seen applied to cars like the new A5. Audi has also integrated mild-hybrid technology across the range of engines available with this car, ensuring the best possible efficiency.
Following on from previous generations of Q5, this new model has been designed with a focus on practicality, which is why mid-spec cars and above benefit from sliding rear seats which can be moved forward or back, depending on the need for more boot space or a greater amount of legroom for back seat passengers.
What’s under the bonnet?
Prepare for a surprise – the new Q5 is available with a diesel engine. While nearly all manufacturers have shunned black pump-power from their key models, you’ll still find it beating away in this Q5. It’s a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit which, as mentioned earlier, gets mild-hybrid technology for a claimed fuel consumption figure of 44.8mpg – though we managed to crack 50mpg during a long motorway stint.
Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro system and a seven-speed automatic transmission. Emissions of 166g/km for this high-spec Launch Edition car aren’t bad for a diesel-powered model, either.
What’s it like to drive?
The Q5 offers the kind of comfortable and refined experience that you’d expect from a car of this type. We’re riding on 20-inch wheels with this high-spec Launch Edition car and this does affect the low-speed ride; the Q5 shudders through bumps when you’re pootling about town. However, the mild-hybrid system does take away some of the ‘delay’ that we’ve experienced in previous diesel-powered Audi cars, so quick exits from junctions are much easier than before.
At speed, the Q5 is settled and very quiet. The diesel engine isn’t that noticeable, either – even when you’re accelerating hard, it doesn’t sound too coarse or intrusive. The brakes are a real highlight, too, with a confident, solid action.
How does it look?
Audi has done a good job of transferring some of the look and feel that you’d get from the previous Q5 into this new model while still bringing a fresh take. However, it’s testament to how many of Audi’s other SUVs have grown that the Q5 doesn’t feel quite as big as it used to be.
There’s a good range of colours to choose from, too, alongside a variety of alloy wheel options. As before, you can still get the Q5 in either standard SUV or sleeker Sportback bodystyles, with the latter giving a more coupe-esque flavour to this car.
What’s it like inside?
Audi has introduced a number of new, more premium materials inside the Q5 to help elevate the experience. In many areas, it has worked a treat, bringing a more premium experience than the Q5 could offer previously. Build quality doesn’t feel quite as strong as it did, however, and we did notice the odd squeak during our time with the car – something which wouldn’t have happened with its predecessor.
Space is good, mind you, and there’s a decent level of room for those sitting in the back. Boot space stands at 515 litres or 1,415 with the rear seats folded down. That’s slightly more than you would’ve got in the previous Q5, too.
What’s the spec like?
Prices for the Q5 range kick off at €52,300 or £51,410 for a car in entry-level Sport trim which still gets 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control and a full 14.5-inch infotainment screen with an 11.9-inch digital cockpit ahead of the driver. This system is clear and easy to use, too, while Apple CarPlay works seamlessly.
Our test car came in limited number Launch Edition – which is no longer available to order here in the UK – but the top-spec Edition 1 that is available to specify by Audi adds 21-inch wheels, Matrix LED headlights and a top-view camera to make parking easier. However, as with previous Q5 models, it’s more than likely that mid-spec S Line will prove the most popular.
Verdict
There’s loads to like about the new Audi Q5. Tech levels are strong and it hasn’t lost that practicality which made its predecessors such a hit. You get a good amount of standard equipment, regardless of which specification you opt for, too.
It’s a shame that overall quality has taken a bit of a hit but, if you’re after a car which still looks and feels special, the Q5 is well worth considering.
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