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2018 Audi Q5 Review: Expert Insights & Key Takeaways
-2018 Audi Q5: Redesigned Luxury SUV Raises the Bar
The automotive landscape witnessed a significant evolution when Audi introduced the second generation of its best-selling Q5 mid-size luxury SUV. Arriving at the peak of the premium compact SUV boom, the redesigned Q5 brought refined German engineering to an increasingly competitive segment dominated by rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and Lexus NX.
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Evolutionary Design with Premium Appeal
Audi's design philosophy embraces evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes, and the Q5 exemplifies this approach. While maintaining the brand's signature aesthetic—characterized by the singleframe grille, crisp body lines, and distinctive LED lighting signatures—the new model introduced subtle refinements:
- Extended hood cutlines that flow into the fenders for a more cohesive appearance
- 0.6-inch longer wheelbase enhancing interior space
- Redesigned LED taillights with dynamic turn signals (optional)
- Improved aerodynamics with a 0.30 drag coefficient
The Q5's understated elegance continues to appeal to luxury buyers who prefer sophistication over ostentation, setting it apart from more flamboyant competitors in the segment.
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Powertrain: Turbocharged Efficiency
Audi made a bold move by eliminating the optional V6 engine, standardizing the turbocharged 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder across the Q5 lineup. This decision reflected the industry's shift toward smaller, more efficient engines without sacrificing performance:
| Engine Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 252 hp @ 5,000-6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 1,600-4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 seconds (manufacturer estimate) |
The new drivetrain combination delivers noticeable improvements over the previous generation:
- 15% better fuel efficiency compared to the outgoing V6 model
- Quicker throttle response thanks to the dual-clutch transmission
- Reduced turbo lag with revised boost mapping
Driving Dynamics Refined
Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system remains standard, now with a rear-biased torque distribution (40:60 front/rear split under normal conditions) for more engaging handling. The optional sport adaptive damping suspension ($1,000) adds another layer of driving sophistication, automatically adjusting to road conditions and driving style.
The Drive Select system offers multiple modes (Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Individual) that alter:
- Throttle response
- Transmission shift points
- Steering effort
- Suspension firmness (with adaptive damping)
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Interior: Audi's Luxury Benchmark
The Q5's cabin reaffirms Audi's reputation for exceptional interior design and material quality. Thoughtful improvements include:
Space and Comfort
- 1.2 inches more rear legroom than previous generation
- Available ventilated front seats with massage function
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Quiet cabin with acoustic laminated glass
Technology Integration
The optional 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster replaces traditional gauges, offering:
- Customizable display configurations
- Full-screen navigation map view
- Integration with driver assistance systems
The MMI infotainment system features an 8.3-inch central display with:
- MMI touchpad with handwriting recognition
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Available Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system
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Practicality Meets Luxury
The Q5 successfully balances SUV utility with premium accommodations:
| Cargo Capacity | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Behind rear seats | 26.8 cubic feet |
| With rear seats folded | 60.4 cubic feet |
| Max payload capacity | 1,089 lbs |
| Towing capacity | 4,400 lbs (with towing package) |
Practical features include available power-operated tailgate with gesture control, 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats, and numerous storage solutions throughout the cabin.
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Safety and Driver Assistance
While the redesigned Q5 awaited official crash test ratings at launch, it offered an extensive suite of available safety technologies:
- Audi Pre Sense City: Automatic emergency braking up to 52 mph
- Active Lane Assist: Lane keeping with gentle steering inputs
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist: Semi-autonomous driving in stop-and-go traffic
- Top View Camera System: 360-degree parking visualization
Standard safety equipment included eight airbags, electronic stability control, and Audi Pre Sense Basic which prepares the vehicle for potential impacts by closing windows and pretensioning seatbelts.
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Market Positioning and Value
The Q5's pricing positioned it at the premium end of the mid-size luxury SUV segment:
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | $42,475 | Leatherette seats, power tailgate, LED headlights |
| Premium Plus | $46,475 | Virtual Cockpit, panoramic sunroof, heated seats |
| Prestige | $51,875 | Head-up display, ventilated seats, top-view camera |
When comparably equipped, the Q5 competed directly with:
- Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4MATIC
- BMW X3 xDrive30i
- Volvo XC60 T5 AWD
- Lexus NX 300 F Sport
The Q5 distinguished itself with superior interior craftsmanship and the most advanced digital cockpit in its class at the time.
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Ownership Considerations
Maintenance and Reliability
Audi includes:
- 4-year/50,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
- 1-year/10,000-mile scheduled maintenance included
- 12-year unlimited mileage corrosion warranty
Long-term reliability data from previous generations suggests the Q5 performs better than average for German luxury vehicles, though maintenance costs remain higher than non-premium brands.
Fuel Economy Comparison
| Vehicle | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q5 2.0T Quattro | 23 | 27 | 25 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4MATIC | 22 | 27 | 24 |
| BMW X3 xDrive30i | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| Lexus NX 300 AWD | 22 | 28 | 24 |
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The Verdict: A Benchmark in Its Class
The redesigned Q5 successfully built upon its predecessor's strengths while addressing previous shortcomings. Key advantages include:
- Class-leading interior quality and technology
- Refined powertrain with excellent real-world performance
- Practical packaging with premium utility
- Confident all-weather capability
While the infotainment interface represented a slight step backward in usability, the Q5's overall package made it one of the most compelling choices in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, combining Audi's trademark engineering precision with everyday practicality.
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Last Updated On Aug, 04-2025