By Danielle Collis
Copyright news
But there’s a reason I chose this car in the first place, and a reason I’ve stayed loyal to the brand.
Test driving the latest Q5 line-up only confirmed that loyalty – Audi hasn’t lost its touch.
The headlines this week will talk about the next-generation Q5 offering new mild-hybrid powertrains, fresh underpinnings, and an incoming plug-in hybrid as rivals pivot to electrification.
But what stood out to me wasn’t just the hybrid news but the fact that Audi is backing its diesel more than ever. While other automakers are quietly retiring diesel power, Audi is keeping it.
As an Audi diesel customer myself, that feels reassuring.
MORE: ‘Too advanced’: Tesla tech exposes Aus drivers
Something for Everyone
Since it first arrived in 2009, the Q5 has been Audi’s bread-and-butter SUV, and its third-generation Q5 is stronger than ever.
The Q5 sits on Audi’s new Premium Platform Combustion (PCC): a modern structure of steel/aluminium composite body (stiff for safety and handling, lighter for efficiency), five-link suspension front and rear (so each wheel can move more independently for better ride and grip), and electromechanical progressive steering (it’s lighter in the suburbs, steadier on the highway).
Every model uses a 7-speed S tronic wet-clutch dual-clutch auto for smooth, quick shifts and the turning circle is 11.9m – handy in tight car parks!
The range includes the entry-level Q5 TFSI at $81,000 plus on-road costs, powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (150kW/340Nm) driving the front wheels, it matches the diesel’s 226km/h top speed but is slower to highway pace (8.6s 0-100) and uses more at 5.7L/100km.
MORE: Australia rocked by new car theft crisis
From there, the range steps up to the Q5 TDI quattro at $87,600 plus on-road costs, which keeps the same 150kW output but adds more torque (400Nm), all-wheel drive and a sharper 7.4 second sprint to 100km/h. The Q5 TDI quattro sport, priced at $94,100 plus on-road costs, builds on that package with 20-inch alloys, a panoramic sunroof and sports front seats.
Sitting above those is the performance-focused SQ5 TFSI Edition One, priced at $106,400 plus on-road costs, while the fully loaded SQ5 TFSI tops the range at $122,400, delivering 270kW/550Nm from its V6 petrol engine and a 4.5-second 0-100km/h sprint.
Audi has also confirmed a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) due in 2026, promising up to 100km of electric-only driving.
Add to that a Q5 Sportsback expected later this year, and buyers will have a choice of everything from Audi, only a few rivals can say the same.
MORE: China EV giant’s fall after Buffett’s $10bn exit
The Shining Star
The TDI quattro is the winner for me. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel produces 150kW and 400Nm, with torque kicking in low.
The diesel’s torque makes everyday driving feel strong, and the all-wheel drive system adds confidence and makes it feel composed. Whether it’s overtaking on the freeway or cruising for hours, it just works.
The mild-hybrid assistance ensures the TDI feels smoother and thriftier than before, able to coast or shut off in traffic while providing a subtle boost when needed.
With a 2000kg towing capacity and a claimed fuel use of 5.4L/100km, real-world figures sat around 6.4/100km in inner city streets – impressive. This model requires AdBlue, with a tank capacity of 21.5 litres.
These figures make the TDI one of the most frugal options in the segment.
The petrol TFSI is fine, but being front-wheel drive, it doesn’t feel as premium as the diesel quattro. At the other end of the spectrum, the SQ5 TFSI is pure fun, it’s loud, fast and playful, but not what most buyers will choose.
Comfort meets Technology
Audi has gone big on screens but keep it tasteful.
Every Q5 gets the 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus and a 14.5-inch OLED central display, add the Tech Pro Package for the 10.9-inch passenger screen, heated rear outboard seats, heated wheel and digital OLED tail-lights.
Tech-savvy buyers will love this, but if you’re old-school, then this cabin isn’t for you.
I also found it highly practical, the rear seats recline and slide, the boot expands from 520L to 1473L.
I love the convenient features like wireless charging with adaptive cooling, three-zone climate control, keyless entry, 360-degree cameras with kerb view and park assist plus, all standard.
I think families and young professionals will appreciate the space, features and interior design.
If you want to step it up, the Q5 Sport trim brings upgrades like a panoramic sunroof, black headlining, stainless pedals, and sports seats with embossed “S” logos.
You can also opt for packages like premium, which adds heads-up display, Bang & Olufsen 3D sound and ambient lighting. The style package offers privacy glass, 20-inch wheels and black exterior styling.
In terms of safety, Audi never cuts corners.
The Q5 comes with nine airbags, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic assist, and 360-degree cameras.
Euro NCAP has already awarded it five stars.
Servicing is every 12 months or 15,000km with a five-year capped plan at $3520.
Warranty and roadside assistance are also five years with no kilometre cap.
Verdict 4/5
The immediate competition is fierce – BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Genesis GV70 and Lexus NX.
Plus a lot of online chatter nitpicks design and the fact that the new Q5 is “screen heavy”, but they also state that Audi’s SUVs sell strongly because buyers like its safe, understated look and the way they drive, and they’re spot on.
Audi’s new Q5 is a winning brief; the interior feels premium, the mild-hybrid layer is seamless, and there’s plenty of tech.
But most importantly for me and clearly many Australians, Audi hasn’t abandoned diesel.
With petrol, diesel, and now a plug-in hybrid on the way, there are plenty of options for buyers.
