The previous generation Audi Q5 made due with 2.0L, 220 horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder as its base engine. It provided great fuel economy, thanks to being smaller than most of the 6-cylinder power plants normally used in this class. For this year however, Audi have redeveloped that 2.0L engine to make significantly more powerful, now producing 252 horsepower. That's enough to compete on nearly equal footing with most of the 6-cylinder engines offered in this class while still maintaining decent fuel economy. Of course, some people just like the more refined power delivery that comes with those extra cylinders, so Audi also offers the SQ5 with a 3.0L Turbocharged V6, making 354 horsepower. The more powerful SQ5 is capable of reaching 60 mph in a claimed 5.1 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard across the entire line.
The Audi Q5 comes in three basic trims, Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The basic Premium trim includes Audi's smartphone interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 18-inch wheels, Audi's Pre-Sense parking assistance system and a 7-inch display in the center console that houses a rearview camera display.
Premium Plus trim adds a rear cross traffic alert system, Audi connect CARE assistance, full LED headlights, a keyless start system, a hands-free rear tailgate and heated front seats with a memory function.
The Prestige trim adds Audi's virtual cockpit and heads up display, a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 19-speakers and 755 watts, a touchscreen with the ability to read handwriting and a parking assist system with a camera featuring a top-down view of the vehicle. Audi's virtual cockpit technology works by among other things, projecting navigation information as the background of the instrument display, between and behind the speedometer and tachometer, turning the whole instrument display into a place where drivers can get all the information they need without having to look too far away from the road.
The SQ5 comes in just two trims, Premium Plus and Prestige. Standard Premium Plus comes with Leather/Alcantara seating surfaces, 20-inch wheels, aluminum roof rails, a power tailgate, 3-zone climate control and heated front seats. Prestige models on the SQ5 mirror those of the Q5 and include that amazing sound system, along with the fancy cameras and instrument display. Standard front seats on the SQ5 premium are 12-way power adjustable and feature a memory system.
Strong Performance
Excellent Ride Quality
Strong Safety Feature Content
Lots Of Interior Features And Technology
Good Looks
Audi have redesigned the Q5 and the SQ5 for 2018. The new luxury SUV has a more spacious interior and a sportier, slightly more coupe-like exterior for this generation. All-wheel drive continues to be standard, though the base engine has been given a redesign and now makes significantly more power and torque than the one it replaces. Given these improvements, it's a good bet the Audi Q5 continues to be one of the German marque's top selling vehicles.
The Audi Q5 competes with other mid-sized luxury SUVs such as the Lexus RX and the BMW X5. The Audi offers great fuel economy in its segment thanks to its available 4-cylinder engine, while also offering more sophisticated looks than many of its competitors. For buyers who want a sportier driving experience the SQ5 offers plenty of power for passing on the freeway, along with sure footed handling that's nearly unmatched in the segment. The Q5 and the SQ5 offer a sophisticated and luxurious driving experience while still giving owners the freedom to take the path less traveled.
