Audi's best-selling model is comfortable, practical, upscale, and good to drive. However, in part due to its advancing age, it lacks the compelling qualities that would make it a must-buy in a small luxury class full of appealing alternatives with fresher designs, engineering and technologies.Read full review
Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at Edmunds and was the first editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.
Josh Sadlier has worked in the automotive industry since 2008. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Josh is director of content strategy at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autotrader and Automobile. Under his stewardship, Edmunds' own 1989 Yugo GVL won first place at the Concours d'Lemons, taking home a jar of borscht, a can of beets, a cutting board and a pint of VIP vodka.
Pros
Available plug-in hybrid powertrain
Quiet, comfortable and roomy cabin
Top-notch craftsmanship
Cons
Lacks standout traits in a crowded class
Transmission can be hesitant to downshift when needed
Touchscreen interface is sometimes distracting to use
What's new
A fully redesigned Q5 will launch later in the 2025 model year
Several trim levels for the current Q5 are enhanced with more standard equipment
New Convenience Plus package for Q5 Premium models
Redesigned third-generation Q5 goes on sale in mid-2025
The current second-gen model will remain on sale until then
Overview
Audi is about to replace its rapidly aging second-generation Q5 small crossover SUV, and, confusingly, the all-new version will debut later in the 2025 model year. Until then, the older Q5 remains on sale but includes more standard equipment to enhance its value proposition. In addition, a new Convenience Plus option package with several appealing features is available with the base Premium trim level. Of course, you can upgrade the SUV with more power and equipment and even choose a plug-in hybrid version that offers a modest 23 miles of electric range. However, unless you need a new SUV immediately, you might want to wait for the redesigned Q5, due in spring 2025.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Audi Q5 PHEV Insights
Trim:
Q5 Premium S line
All Electric Range
23 miles
EPA Estimated Electric Range
The Q5 will automatically switch to gas when the electric battery is low.Electric cars typically experience 1-2% of range loss per year with slightly faster degradation over the first 50,000 miles as the car settles into its long term state, according to Recurrent's study of 15,000 EVs.
Estimated range mapThis map is a visual representation of the possible one-way and round-trips by this vehicle (on a full charge) from the geometric center of Apache Junction, Arizona. The depicted ranges are based on the estimated new vehicle range value provided by the EPA, rounded down to miles for one-way and miles for round-trip. Actual range will vary depending on the condition of this vehicle’s battery pack, how you drive, driving conditions and other factors.
240V Home ChargingEstimated total charging time when using a 240V outlet. This is either a 3-prong or 4-prong outlet used for appliances, for example a clothes dryer.
EV batteries should be kept at 30-80% charged to extend battery life.
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Cost to Drive
$143/mo
Q5
vs
$180/mo
SUV Avg.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Arizona
Am I Ready for a Plug-In Hybrid?
EV ownership works best if you can charge at home (240V outlet) This typically means a 240V home installation, or other places your car is parked for several hours each day. Don't expect a regular household outlet (120V) to suffice.
Adding a home charging system is estimated to cost $1,616 in This is an estimate for your area. Using your address and the answers you provide, Treehouse can provide a more accurate price.
Edmunds is partnering with Treehouse, an independent provider of home EV installation services. Learn moreEdmunds customers receive a 10% installation discount and 4% smart charger discount. Discount excludes permit, hosted inspection, and load management devices. Valid for 30 days.
Edmunds spotlight: Buy now or wait for the redesign?
Though it's a 7-year-old design, the second-generation Audi Q5 remains competitive in its segment. It doesn't have a fancy, giant touchscreen like many of its newer rivals, but it remains nearly as technologically advanced as other compact SUVs. The comfortable interior exudes quality, and the Q5 is roomier inside than expected. Driving dynamics are also satisfying if not wholly rewarding, especially with the more potent version of the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which Audi calls the 45 TFSI. While the upcoming third-generation Q5 won't stray far from the current model's successful recipe, it leaps forward technologically, and Audi will wrap it in more expressive design and detailing. If you think that's worth waiting for, we recommend doing so. Everyone else should watch for appealing lease deals as the second-gen Q5 approaches the finish line, and read our Expert Rating to learn more about it.
Competitors to consider
Instead of waiting for the next-generation Q5 to go on sale, you could explore some of this Audi's competitors. Our three favorites in the small luxury SUV segment include the value-rich Acura RDX, the elegant Genesis GV70 and the sophisticated Mercedes-Benz GLC. BMW has a redesigned X3 on sale too, and while its styling represents an acquired taste, the powertrains and touchscreen interface are more advanced than what you'll find in the Audi.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.6
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
Audi's best-selling model is comfortable, practical, upscale, and good to drive. However, in part due to its advancing age, it lacks the compelling qualities that would make it a must-buy in a small luxury class full of appealing alternatives with fresher designs, engineering and technologies.
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.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $5,434 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,434 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Premium S line trim.
2025 Audi Q5 Plug-in Hybrid pricing in Apache Junction, AZ
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 pad. 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 25.6 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 Acura RDX (31.1 cubes) and BMW X3 (31.5 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.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The 2025 Audi Q5 45 TFSI gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in combined driving (23 city/28 highway), a good number for the class. 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?
We recommend the Q5 45 TFSI Premium Plus for the best combination of equipment, performance and value. This version offers quicker acceleration courtesy of the uprated engine, while the Premium Plus model adds desirable features and opens the door to a wider range of options.
61 MPGeMPGe is the official metric that the EPA uses to measure the efficiency of alternative-fuel (including electric) vehicles. Just like regular MPG shows how far a car will travel on one gallon of gas, MPGe shows how far a vehicle will drive on 33.7kWh of electricity - the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline. Combined MPGe is the combined total of 45% city MPGe + 55% highway MPGe.
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
Marginal
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Acceptable
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
FAQ
Is the Audi Q5 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 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 2025 Audi Q5?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Audi Q5:
A fully redesigned Q5 will launch later in the 2025 model year
Several trim levels for the current Q5 are enhanced with more standard equipment
New Convenience Plus package for Q5 Premium models
Redesigned third-generation Q5 goes on sale in mid-2025
The current second-gen model will remain on sale until then
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 2025 Audi Q5 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Audi Q5 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 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 2025 Q5 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2025 Audi Q5?
The least-expensive 2025 Audi Q5 is the 2025 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 $63,300
Prestige S line 4dr SUV AWD w/55 TFSI e (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric plug-in hybrid 7AM) which starts at $66,700
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
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