The Audi Q5 isn’t just another SUV; it’s the linchpin. Both on Australian roads and across the globe, Audi’s success story is written with the Q5 in bold letters.
From its 2009 debut, the Audi Q5 has conquered hearts worldwide, finding its way into 1.6 million garages globally. Down Under, a devoted fan base of 25,000 Aussies have welcomed this blend of luxury and performance.
"The pressure’s on for Audi’s new Q5. Jeff Mannering, Audi Australia’s top boss, calls it "critical" to their Aussie success. To show just how vital this third-generation SUV is, Audi rolled it out with fanfare on the Gold Coast, simultaneously hosting media, dealers, and investors. Talk about making a statement."
The all-new Q5 isn’t just a refresh; it’s a revolution. Buckle up, because this marks the most radical transformation in the Q5’s history. This is Audi’s first SUV sculpted atop their groundbreaking Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture a chassis it shares with the sleek new A5 Sedan and Avant. Prepare to be captivated by Audi’s freshest design philosophy and cutting-edge tech, now unleashed in SUV form.
Imagine gliding silently through city streets, powered only by electricity. The new Q5 makes this a reality with its all-electrified lineup. From the responsive four-cylinder TFSI to the exhilarating SQ5 TFSI, every model features a 48V mild-hybrid system, letting you cruise in pure EV mode at lower speeds. And coming soon: a plug-in hybrid variant boasting an impressive 100km electric range, opening up a world of emission-free adventures.
Queensland’s sun blazed as we wrestled the keys to the all-new mid-size SUV – a "critical" launch for the brand, they insisted. We put all three engine options through their paces on Australian asphalt, stealing precious minutes behind the wheel to gauge its true potential.
Can Audi’s revamped 2026 Q5 dethrone the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC? The luxury SUV crown is up for grabs.
How much does the Audi Q5 cost?
Hold on to your hats, Audi aficionados! The price of entry for the all-new Q5 has jumped a considerable $8,000, now starting at a cool $81,000 (plus on-road costs) for the TFSI 150kW model. Prepare your wallets – this upgrade comes at a premium.
| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | | 2025 Audi Q5 TFSI | $81,000 | | 2025 Audi Q5 TDI quattro | $87,600 | | 2025 Audi Q5 TDI quattro sport | $94,100 | | 2025 Audi SQ5 edition one | $106,400 | | 2025 Audi SQ5 | $122,400 |
Audi Australia acknowledges rising prices but sweetens the deal with a major upgrade to standard features. They’re packing an extra $10,000 of value into the base model, plus all-new engines boasting cutting-edge 48V mild-hybrid technology.
The Q5 remains a compelling value proposition. Forget BMW’s X3 and Mercedes-Benz’s GLC – they’ll set you back a princely sum, starting at $86,000 and $89,000 respectively. Even against the stylish Volvo XC60, available from $74,990 before on-road expenses, the Q5 holds a significant price advantage.
The Audi Q5 family is expanding! Gear up for the sleek Q5 Sportback, arriving later this year. Then, hold onto your hats because whispers from Ingolstadt suggest electrifying plug-in hybrid versions are set to storm the scene around 2026.
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What is the Audi Q5 like on the inside?
The new Q5 draws heavy inspiration from the lower-slung A5 range as well as the similarly-sized Q6 e-tron SUV.
Audi unveils its ‘Digital Stage,’ a stunning, driver-centric display. Framed by sleek, piano-black bezels, it showcases Audi’s all-new, intuitive user interface, transforming the cockpit into a high-tech theatre.
Behind the wheel, the driver grips a freshly designed four-spoke steering wheel, the gateway to a cutting-edge command center. Gaze beyond it to find the vibrant 11.9-inch ‘virtual cockpit’ digital instrument cluster, nestled seamlessly within the panoramic display unit. This immersive screen flows into the star of the show: the expansive 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system, putting a universe of information and entertainment at your fingertips.
Ditch dull displays! These OLED screens explode with vivid colors, inky blacks, and eye-popping clarity. Even if you’re an Audi veteran accustomed to their old-school simplicity, this intuitive interface will have you navigating like a pro in minutes. Prepare to be dazzled.
Gone are the classic, comforting dials of the speedometer and tachometer. In their place, a dazzling, videogame-inspired central display dominates the cockpit, overflowing with adaptive readouts and a live-assist tech view. While I’m not entirely convinced by this leap into the digital unknown, the seamless integration of smartphone maps into the sidebar widgets is a genuinely welcome touch.
The A5 and Q6 e-tron’s shared interface isn’t just new; it’s a visual symphony. Slick graphics dance across the screen, captivating with fluid animations. While climate control now lives digitally, it’s thoughtfully anchored at the display’s base, a constant, accessible touchpoint in a sea of innovation.
Audi’s succumbed to the touchscreen A/C, and while I mourn the loss of tactile knobs, there’s a silver lining. Their system is surprisingly decent. That little ledge beneath the screen? A godsend! It anchors your hand, preventing those frustrating mid-drive mis-taps. Plus, the haptic feedback? Chef’s kiss. It’s the closest thing to feeling an actual button press in this brave new world of virtual controls.
While the steering wheel boasts touch-capacitive controls, a clever haptic system mimics the reassuring feel of actual buttons. It’s a convincing illusion, though a part of me still yearns for the satisfyingclickof Audi’s older, more tactile design.
Crave a co-pilot experience? Spring for the $5,700 Tech Pro package in the Q5 Sport and unlock the MMI passenger-side display. It’s essentially a digital playground, mirroring central interface functionality with added apps and streaming services. A built-in privacy filter keeps the driver focused on the road, although, truth be told, the 10.9-inch screen feels a tad underwhelming given the price.
Forget the brittle plastics of the old Q5. This new model boasts a noticeable step up in build quality, a welcome departure from its predecessor’s occasionally harsh interior. While it doesn’t quite reach the luxurious heights of its Q8 sibling, it comfortably surpasses rivals like the X3 and GLC, offering a premium feel that’s both tangible and satisfying.
Despite a 35mm stretch in overall length, don’t expect limo-like legroom in the back of the Q5. The wheelbase, essentially untouched at a mere 1mm increase to 2820mm, hints at where those extra millimetersdidn’tgo.
Even at 6’1", I can settle in behind the wheel. However, if you’re picturing sprawling legroom for rear passengers, temper your expectations. An adult can fit, sure, but "comfortable" might be a stretch. Think knees politely acquainted with the seatback in front – even with those sculpted seatbacks designed to help. Legroom is adequate, but not extraordinary.
In the back, passengers revel in their own climate oasis, courtesy of a standard third climate zone and adjustable vents. Dual USB-C ports are ready to power devices, but spring for the Premium package and these humble ports morph into a laptop-charging powerhouse, boasting a blazing-fast 100W output.
Beyond the basics, discover a thoughtfully designed interior. Mesh map pockets offer clever storage, while generously sized door bins swallow water bottles and road trip essentials. The fold-down center armrest, complete with cupholders, provides a touch of first-class comfort. And for precious cargo, rest assured: easily accessible ISOFIX and top-tether anchors make car seat installation a breeze, keeping your little ones safe and secure.
Above: Overseas model shown
With the rear seats up, the Audi swallows a respectable 520 litres of cargo – enough for a family’s weekend getaway. Need more space? Fold those seats down, and you unleash a cavernous 1473 litres. While it comfortably retains its five-passenger capacity, eagle-eyed Audi enthusiasts might notice a slight reduction in two-seat mode, down from 1520L. Think of it as trading a tad of raw volume for a more refined and usable space.
Forget runaway groceries and roadside anxieties! Aussie-bound Q5s now boast a clever ‘Storage and Compartment Package,’ transforming the boot into an organized oasis with nets and straps. But hold on, there’s a twist! Kiss goodbye to the traditional spare wheel; instead, a tyre repair kit stands ready to mend your flat. Choose wisely, adventurer.
| Dimensions | Audi Q5 | | — | — | | Length | 4717mm | | Width | 1900mm | | Height | 1647mm | | Wheelbase | 2820mm | | Cargo capacity | 520-1473L |
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
Under the hood of the Australian Q5 beats a choice of two refined four-cylinder hearts, each boosted by a 48V mild-hybrid system. Choose spirited petrol power with front-wheel drive, or opt for the surefooted grip of quattro all-wheel drive, paired exclusively with a robust diesel engine.
| Specifications | Q5 TFSI | Q5 TDI quattro | | — | — | — | |Engine| 2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol 48V MHEV | 2.0L 4cyl turbo-diesel 48V MHEV | |Engine outputs| 150kW + 340Nm | 150kW + 400Nm | |Electric motor outputs| Up to 18kW + 230Nm | Up to 18kW + 230Nm | |Battery| 1.7kWh LFP | 1.7kWh LFP | |Transmission| 7-speed dual-clutch | 7-speed dual-clutch | |Drive type| Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | |Weight| 1910kg | 2030kg | |0-100km/h (claimed)| 8.6s | 7.4s | |Fuel economy (claimed) | 5.7L/100km | 5.4L/100km | |Fuel tank capacity| 65L | 65L | |Fuel requirement| 95 RON | Diesel | |CO2 emissions| 129g/km | 141g/km | |Emissions standard| Euro 6 | Euro 6 | |Braked tow capacity| 2000kg | 2000kg |
Audi’s electrifying the Q5 down under! Expect a plug-in hybrid variant to storm Aussie shores around 2026. Forget compromise; imagine a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine paired with electric power, delivering either a potent 220kW or a staggering 270kW. Prepare for the Q5, reimagined.
Unleash the electric thrill. The Q5 e-hybrid range doesn’t just sip electricity; it devours distance. Boasting a 105kW electric motor and a 25.9kWh battery, prepare for whisper-quiet journeys stretching up to 100km (WLTP). Crave more? The performance-tuned variant catapults you to 100km/h in a blistering 5.1 seconds, before topping out at an Autobahn-worthy 250km/h. Eco-conscious meets pulse-racing excitement.
Europeans also have the option of a TFSI 150kW engine with quattro all-wheel drive, but whether that configuration will make its way Down Under remains a question mark. The whisper of a V6 TDI also lingers. Audi Australia has confirmed they’d eagerly raise their hand for a six-cylinder diesel Q5, should the German automaker decide to build it.
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
How does the Audi Q5 drive?
A tantalizing taste of Audi’s new Q5, experienced firsthand. We wrestled with the TFSI’s raw power and savored the TDI quattro’s tenacious grip, carving through the Gold Coast’s sun-kissed highways and twisting backroads.
Leading the charge was the TDI quattro, a shimmering beacon in Sakhir gold. Its audacious hue demanded attention, amplified by the optional $4900 Style package, which endowed it with imposing 20-inch alloy wheels that filled the arches with purpose.
The Q5’s ride prioritizes comfort with frequency-selective dampers, a smart system that smooths out bumps. Craving cloud-like cruising? The top-tier SQ5 boasts optional adaptive air suspension. While not standard on the Q5, a whispered request to Audi might just unlock an air-cushioned reality.
The Q5, like many of its European, particularly premium, brethren riding on steel, favors a tauter suspension. This isn’t about coddling; it’s about injecting a pulse of ‘sport’ into the drive. Expect controlled body motions a disciplined response to bumps and bends.
The freeway proved our diesel devotion. The TDI quattro transforms into a highway hypnotist, humming a lullaby of torque. Refinement reigns; power whispers.
Say goodbye to jerky starts and awkward low-speed maneuvers! The 48V MHEV technology transforms the driving experience, smoothing out those notorious dual-clutch hiccups. Glide effortlessly in electric vehicle mode during slow crawls, then experience near-instant combustion engine revival when you demand power.
Once in motion, the seven-speed S tronic transmission rips through gears with lightning-fast precision. Shifts are so seamless, so whisper-quiet within the cocoon-like cabin, you’ll barely notice the surge of power as you’re propelled forward.
The front-wheel-drive TFSI sings a sweeter, more eager tune, readily chasing the redline. However, unleash its power too abruptly, and you’ll be serenaded by the chirp of protesting front tires, a stark reminder of its two-wheel-drive limitations when bolting off the line.
The engine yearns for the effortless, low-revving punch of its diesel counterpart, missing a crucial 60Nm of torque. That sweet spot of peak power arrives a heartbeat later (2000rpm versus 1750rpm), leaving you craving that immediate shove off the line.
Although our time with each engine was brief, preventing definitive fuel consumption data, early signs were promising. The diesel sipped fuel at around 5.0L/100km during predominantly freeway cruising. The petrol, meanwhile, showed its thirst a little more, registering in the 7s while tackling challenging, winding B-roads.
Regarding driver-assistance tech, the Q5 is loaded. It boasts almost every feature imaginable, stopping just short of a semi-autonomous highway mode a capability found in its predecessor and numerous competitors, both within and beyond its class.
Audi is poised to unleash a wave of upgrades, bringing features previously exclusive to international markets to its PPC and PPE models. Expect these enhancements, potentially arriving with a model year refresh, to be driven by a comprehensive software package. The tantalizing possibility of retrofitting existing vehicles hangs in the air, contingent on hardware compatibility. While the local Audi team remains tight-lipped on specifics, the promise of enhanced functionality is revving up excitement.
Audi’s Australian launch feels bittersweet. While we’re getting the cars, it’s a blow that crucial tech like their excellent adaptive cruise assist is missing, sacrificed at the altar of speed. It’s a compromise that leaves enthusiasts wanting, especially given how brilliantly that system typically performs.
Lane centering remains conspicuously absent, not just from the A5 and Q6 e-tron, but also, it seems, from the highly anticipated Porsche Macan Electric. A frustrating omission for tech-savvy drivers, here’s hoping these premium brands steer towards a solution soon.
The Q5 doesn’t just offer driver assistance; it anticipates your needs. Imagine a commute where the adaptive cruise control anticipates stop-and-go traffic, effortlessly maintaining a safe distance. Lane-keeping assist gently guides you, preventing accidental drifts, while blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert acts as an extra set of eyes, making lane changes and reversing out of parking spaces a breeze. Think of it as a co-pilot, providing confident control in any driving scenario.
Trading blind faith for a digital eye, the upgraded surround cameras, paired with front and rear parking sensors, transform navigating this family SUV – a substantial 4.7 meters of length and 1.9 meters of width – from a nail-biting experience into a breeze, whether you’re squeezing into a tight suburban parking spot or conquering the chaos of the school carpool lane.
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What do you get?
In the Audi Q5 family, the standard and ‘sport’ trims serve as the foundation, while the SQ5 ‘edition one’ and SQ5 models reign supreme at the top.
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2025 Audi Q5 equipment highlights:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Matrix LED headlights
- LED tail-lights incl. dynamic indicators
- S line exterior styling
- High-gloss aluminium exterior trim
- Keyless entry, start
- Power tailgate
- 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit
- 14.5-inch MMI touch display
- 3D navigation
- Voice control incl. natural speech recognition
- MMI search
- Apple CarPlay – wireless
- Android Auto – wireless
- Leather-appointed upholstery
- 3-zone climate control
- Heated front seats
- Power front seat adjustment
- 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel
- Colour ambient lighting
- Illuminated front door sill trims
- Matte brushed aluminium inlays
- Digital key
- Audi phone box light – wireless charging
- Audi connect plus services
- Online traffic info incl. hazard alert
- Destination entry via myAudi app
- Parking information
- Car finder
- Remote lock & unlock
- Emergency call
- Online roadside assistance
Q5 TDI quattro sport adds:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Panoramic sunroof
- Sport front seats
- incl. integrated headrests
- incl. S embossing
- S line interior package
- Contrast stitching
- Steering wheel with flat top, bottom
- Black headliner
- Matte brushed aluminium inlays with linear embossing
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
Options
Premium package: $5400 – Q5 + Q5 sport
- Head-up display
- Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system
- Colour interior ambient lighting
- incl. dynamic intersection light
- USB interfaces with higher charging capacity
- Acoustic glazing for front door windows
Style package: $3400 (Q5 sport) $4900 (Q5)
- 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels
- Black exterior package
- Privacy glass
Tech pro package: $5700 – Q5 sport
- Heated steering wheel
- MMI front passenger display
- Electric steering column
- Heated outer rear seats
- Digital OLED tail lights
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
Is the Audi Q5 safe?
The verdict is still out from ANCAP, but the new Audi Q5 already boasts a five-star safety stamp of approval from its European sibling, Euro NCAP.
| Category | Audi Q5* | | — | — | | Adult occupant protection | 85 per cent | | Child occupant protection | 86 per cent | | Vulnerable road user protection | 79 per cent | | Safety assist | 77 per cent |
*Euro NCAP scores
Standard safety features include:
- 9 airbags incl. front-centre
- Active front assist – AEB
- Autonomous emergency braking – forward
- Front cross-traffic assist
- Front turn assist
- Swerve assist
- Adaptive cruise control with stop and go
- Driver attention and fatigue monitor
- Emergency assist – lane keep
- Lane departure warning
- Side assist
- Blind-spot monitor
- Exit warning
- Rear cross -traffic assist
- Rear turn assist
- 360-degree cameras incl. kerb view
- Park assist plus
- Parking sensors – front, rear
- Semi-autonomous parking
- Tyre pressure loss indicator
Audi anticipates your needs with a customizable "Favorites" menu. Imagine instant access to your top five driver-assistance features – a personalized command center for a smoother, safer journey at your fingertips.
Audi meticulously fine-tuned the Q5’s driver-assistance tech on local roads, a signature step the German automaker takes to ensure its latest models deliver an unparalleled driving experience.
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
How much does the Audi Q5 cost to run?
Audi protects your new Q5 investment with a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, ensuring peace of mind wherever the road takes you. Enjoy round-the-clock roadside assistance for five years, a reassuring safety net for every adventure.
| Servicing and Warranty | Audi Q5 | | — | — | | Warranty | 5 years, unlimited kilometres | | Roadside assistance | 5 years | | Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000 kilometres | | Capped-price servicing | 5 year Service Plan | | Total capped-price service cost | $3520 |
To see how the Audi Q5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Audi Q5
The 2024 Q5: First Impressions? A strong player in the premium mid-size SUV game. It might not reinvent the wheel, but its refined approach makes it a compelling choice. We’ll need more seat time for a final call, but early signs point to a serious contender.
The new engine range leaves a decent first impression, though none are particularly groundbreaking. The TDI quattro, however, whispers a different story. It’s a smooth operator, effortlessly powerful, and surprisingly frugal at the pump. I’m hooked.
Initially, key driver-assistance features were conspicuously absent, and the price hike definitely raised eyebrows. While the missing tech should arrive eventually, the sting of paying more for less (at least, at first) lingers.
"Give the Q5 adaptive damping and air suspension across the board! The current ride is a tad too stiff for Aussie roads and the everyday grind most owners will put it through."
Audi’s interiors, once paragons of ergonomic brilliance and tactile satisfaction, have taken a turn. While not as frustrating as some of its VW Group siblings’ interfaces, the current touch-centric approach feels like a gilded cage. The old interiors were intuitive extensions of the driver; these new ones, though gleaming, demand attention that should be focused on the road. Shiny, yes, but a step away from Audi’s legacy of functional elegance.
After a quick spin in the entry-level models, my gut says the standard TDI quattro, especially when souped-up with the $5400 Premium package, is the sweet spot. You’re basically buying a concert hall on wheels thanks to the Bang & Olufsen sound system, plus that head-up display? Chef’s kiss.
Forget the sunroof – peek inside. Instead of gazing upward, immerse yourself in a world of choice: three distinct interior color palettes and a sophisticated selection between two exquisite wood inlays. Trade in the predictable brushed aluminum for a touch of old-world opulence, a stark contrast to the cold, monolithic black-on-metal interior of even the pricier TDI quattro sport. This isn’t just a cabin; it’s a carefully curated experience.
Forget the whispers of diesel’s demise. This engine delivers effortless torque and a laid-back driving experience, all while sipping fuel with surprising frugality – enough to make some hybrids nervous. For those who devour highway miles or occasionally venture off the beaten path, the diesel stands out as the clear choice.
"The jury’s still out, but our week with the Q5 is fast approaching. Expect a full, no-holds-barred verdict soon."
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