The 2024 Q5 is a competent luxury SUV but lacks any standout traits that would make it a must-buy. Although Audi's best-seller is roomy, refined and surprisingly nimble, the small luxury SUV class is full of rivals that offer the same qualities but with superior performance and all-around excitement.Read full review
Transmission can be hesitant to downshift when needed
Touchscreen interface is sometimes distracting to use
What's new
Lane keeping assistance and a heated steering wheel are now standard
Black Optic package is available on additional trim levels
All models with the 45 powertrain come with sport seats
Part of the second Audi Q5 generation introduced for 2018
Overview
The 2024 Audi Q5's handsome exterior styling, multiple powertrain options, and wealth of standard features (including all-wheel drive) help it stand out in the crowded and highly competitive compact luxury SUV class. Sitting in the center of Audi's crossover lineup, the Q5 offers greater practicality than the pint-sized Q3 and easier maneuverability than the larger — and much more expensive — seven-passenger Q7. Last redesigned in 2018, the current-generation Q5 is an oldie but a goodie.
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Cost to Drive
$229/mo
Q5
vs
$243/mo
SUV Avg.
Monthly estimates based on costs in California
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A killer app is the one feature or product that single-handedly sells an entire system or platform. Think of Game of Thrones for HBO, Halo for the Xbox, or the sense of suspended morality for Las Vegas. The Audi Q5 doesn't really offer anything that you can't get in another competing small luxury SUV (though we will admit that plug-in hybrids aren't terribly common in this class). Its value game is pretty strong on lower trims, but you won't notice if price isn't a major concern.
Competitors to consider
While the Mercedes-Benz GLC has long been a force to be reckoned with, 2023's full redesign cemented its status near the top of this class. And don't count out the Genesis GV70; it burst onto the scene just a couple years ago and blends the best aspects of the German competition with an attractive starting price.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
Average
7.6
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2024 Q5 is a competent luxury SUV but lacks any standout traits that would make it a must-buy. Although Audi's best-seller is roomy, refined and surprisingly nimble, the small luxury SUV class is full of rivals that offer the same qualities but with superior performance and all-around excitement.
How does the Q5 drive? We tested the Q5 in 45 TFSI guise, which means it had the 261-hp engine. Although the Q5 put up competitive numbers at our test track, accelerating to 60 mph in 6 seconds flat, it's hit-or-miss in the real world. Once the turbo's spooled up and you're in the right gear, there's a nice, smooth pull to redline that's worthy of the Audi badge. But the transmission can be slow to engage and sometimes feels indecisive. This is an adequate powertrain, but its reflexes are not sharp. Braking is the opposite — the pedal is firm and there's plenty of brake force as soon as you ask for it.
Push the Q5 toward its limits on a winding road and you'll be rewarded with good grip and impressive poise. Although the Q5's Quattro with Ultra technology all-wheel-drive system defaults to front-wheel drive under normal circumstances, we noted its eagerness to send power rearward during enthusiastic driving. It helps give this luxury SUV some rewarding athleticism.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the Q5? Our Q5 Prestige had superbly comfortable front sport seats with heating and ventilation. The cushions are a little too firm to be called plush but would provide welcome support on long drives. The cabin feels well built and is thoroughly insulated from the outside world. In particular, there's almost no detectable wind noise, even at highway speeds.
Ride comfort is satisfactory for the class, especially given the Q5's respectable handling capabilities and our test car's 20-inch wheels. You glide over most surfaces, while major pavement imperfections are met with a refined tautness that filters out harsh feedback.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The Q5's cabin is spacious whether you're sitting in the front or the back seat, and it's easy to enter and exit through the well-shaped door openings. We also like the commanding driving position, which provides excellent outward visibility. One demerit is that the door-mounted armrest can feel too far away to provide the intended support.
The standard 10.1-inch touchscreen looks great, but it's mounted to the top of the dashboard like a tacked-on tablet. There's also no dial or touchpad controller, so you need to poke and swipe, which requires more of a reach the farther back you position the seat. Some of our staffers are nostalgic for the previous-generation Q5's console-mounted control knob, which fell readily to hand.
How’s the tech? Technology is a strong area for the Q5. The central touchscreen has a high-resolution display and feels responsive, though as noted, you might not love the reach required to get to the screen. The digital instrument panel is similarly crisp and responsive — a seamless pairing with the central screen. The advanced driver aids also performed well. Adaptive cruise control is well calibrated on the freeway, and you can't possibly miss the flashing blind-spot warning lights.
Though Apple CarPlay smartphone integration with wireless connectivity comes standard, we found the wired USB connection to be more consistent. Bluetooth compatibility is good, and our vehicle included a wireless charging station. Don't expect much from the voice activation system, though, as it requires you to adhere to strict prompts.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? With 25.8 cubic feet behind the seats, the Q5 has a maximum storage capacity that is almost perfectly average for the class. Other luxury SUVs in this class, including the BMW X3 (28.7 cubes) and Acura RDX (31.1 cubes), do offer more cargo space. There are a few tie-down points inside but no underfloor storage. Storage for small items inside the cabin is likewise competitive but unremarkable. There's an average-size center console box under the armrest, plus a handy square receptacle ahead of the shift lever that holds your phone at an easily viewable angle.
The Q5 boasts a maximum towing capacity of 4,400 pounds, which is strong for the class. Only a few competitors can match it. For parents, the well-positioned car seat anchor and tether points and roomy back seat make life easier.
How’s the fuel economy? The Audi Q5 45 TFSI gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in combined driving (23 city/28 highway), a good number for the class. [Figures improved to 26 mpg combined and 29 highway beginning in the 2024 model year.] We backed that up on our 115-mile standardized evaluation route by getting 27.9 mpg in real-world driving.
Value
7.5/10
Is the Q5 a good value? Build quality is a hallmark of Audi vehicles, and the Q5 is true to the brand. The interior panels exhibit a tight fit throughout the cabin, and there's an interesting mixture of authentic metals, leathers and woods inside. Some competitors do a better job of wowing you with crystals or flashy styling, but the Q5 brings a lot to the table.
Still, we're conflicted about its pricing. There isn't a whole lot that separates the Q5 from the pack, so you're paying top dollar without getting an exceptional product in return. Audi offers basic and powertrain warranties for only four years/50,000 miles, which isn't helping its case.
Wildcard
6.5/10
The Q5's conservative styling is in keeping with this model's past, but it also sets an underwhelming tone that the driving experience doesn't overcome. At their best, Audis feel like they're on the cutting edge of luxury, technology and performance. This Q5 isn't that kind of Audi; it's a safe play in search of standout strengths.
Which Q5 does Edmunds recommend?
The base Premium model makes a strong case, with a relatively affordable price tag and a healthy list of standard features. Make sure to opt for the Convenience package, as you'll definitely want your luxury SUV to have keyless entry. If it was our money, however, we'd upgrade to the Premium Plus model. Its Bang & Olufsen audio system absolutely kicks, the fully digital instrument panel is a showstopper, and the panoramic sunroof makes the interior feel bright and spacious. Its optional features list is more extensive too.
The overall sentiment of the 2024 Audi Q5 is mixed. Owners appreciate the car's comfort, stylish design, and smooth driving experience. However, many have reported issues with technology features, with some experiencing unreliable tech systems and mechanical problems. Some owners are unhappy with the dealership's service and find the car's technology hard to use, which has led them to regret their purchase.
This summary is AI-generated from the text of owner reviews
2024 Audi Q5 Premium S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM)
We just bought a brand new 2024 q5 sportback. We previously had a 2016 q5 which was a far better suv in every category. Bottom line we hate this new q5 and cannot wait to get rid of it. We will never buy another audi. So the list is too long share in whole so I'll hit the highlights. The technology simply does not work. Specifically the adaptive cruise, auto braking and auto start … stop. Audi
northshore in Milwaukee recommend we dial down the settings, but in reality they mean turn off or disable the safety features. Should I have to disable the safety features on a 63k suv? Other things that do not work are apple carplay and the parking sensors. Lastly, the car will slow down by itself. Bergstrom audi in appleton (where we live) says the suv is reading the speed limit signs and slowing you down if your over. This does not not seem right to me. We have 3000 miles on it and are just about to book our 3rd service visit. Miserable experience at every turn, Please do not consider a q5, we regret purchasing this suv.
The Audi Q5 doesn't feel old on its own, but put it up against the redesigned Mercedes-Benz GLC, and the Audi feels kind of ancient. That's no knock against the Q5, however — the GLC is so cutting-edge that everything else in the class feels behind the times. Despite the Mercedes' reliance on tech, the interface is so easy to use that flipping to your favorite radio station or changing the color of the ambient lighting will soon become second nature.
The Mercedes GLC ran the compact SUV class for years — until the Genesis GV70 entered the arena. The entry from Hyundai's luxury arm shocked us with its well-appointed interior and composed handling, which we felt bested even the vaunted German competition. Best yet, its relatively affordable pricing means it doesn't cost much more than a loaded Honda CR-V.
BMW's X3 is the third pillar of German luxury compact SUVs, effortlessly delivering a comfortable ride, enviable performance, and plenty of room for passengers and gear. But, like the Q5, it doesn't really excel in any one area, and its cabin design is derivative of X3s that have come before. It doesn't move the needle in any meaningful way, which keeps the BMW from achieving must-have status.
Uses sensors at the front of the car to warn you about an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes.
Side Assist
Alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot.
Traffic Jam Assist
Pairs adaptive cruise control and lane centering assistance to reduce driver effort (and stress) in heavy traffic.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
16.4%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
FAQ
Is the Audi Q5 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 Q5 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.6 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that carrying capacity for the Q5 ranges from 25.6 to 25.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Audi Q5. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Audi Q5?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Audi Q5:
Lane keeping assistance and a heated steering wheel are now standard
Black Optic package is available on additional trim levels
All models with the 45 powertrain come with sport seats
Part of the second Audi Q5 generation introduced for 2018
To determine whether the Audi Q5 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Q5. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Q5's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Audi Q5 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Audi Q5 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 Q5 and gave it a 7.6 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 Q5 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Audi Q5?
The least-expensive 2024 Audi Q5 is the 2024 Audi Q5 Premium S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $58,500.
Other versions include:
Premium S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM) which starts at $58,500
Premium Plus S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM) which starts at $62,400
Prestige S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM) which starts at $67,700
If you're interested in the Audi Q5, the next question is, which Q5 model is right for you? Q5 variants include Premium S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM), Premium Plus S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM), and Prestige S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM). For a full list of Q5 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more