Audi continues to improve the robust 2.0L engine to make significantly more powerful, now producing 248 horsepower. That is 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, which makes 349 horsepower.
For 2021, Audi has introduced the Q5e. It is a plug-in hybrid system that combines an electric motor with a 2L four-cylinder engine which combined boost horsepower to 362-horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This model gets the S-line trim package as standard as well other unique optional packages.
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.
The Q5 comes standard with multi-zone climate control with separate rear HVAC control, leather steering wheel, push-button start, leather seating, heated seats, driver power lumbar, HomeLink integration, Audi Connect Care and three 12v power sockets.
The Q5 infotainment includes 180-watt sound system, 10-speaker, upgraded touchscreen, Audi smartphone interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth and four USB ports.
Standard safety features on the Audi Q5 include front and rear parking sensors, Lane departure warning, blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation, rear collision warning and pedestrian detection prevention and Sideguard head-protection airbags.
Premium Plus trim adds a rear cross traffic alert system, navigation, 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 and sport bucket front seats.
Strong Performance
New Plug-in Hybrid Option, Excellent Ride Quality
Strong Safety Feature Content
Lots Of Interior Features And Technology
Good Looks
For 2021, the Audi Q5 gets a slight makeover to match the styling across the lineup, this includes an updated grille, new wheel designs, refreshed front and rear bumpers, updated headlamps and taillights. A new plug-in hybrid system model is added to the lineup as well as mild hybrid system that comes standard on all Q5s.
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.
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