Buyer’s guide to the 2021 Audi Q5

Audi has updated its popular Q5 SUV, we look at what you need to know about it before buying

Audi’s range of SUVs have proven especially popular in recent years, and have increasingly tempted buyers out of the brand’s other models – saloons and estate cars, for example. 

And one of the best options in the German firm’s range is the Q5 – an ideal family-sized model that impresses with its impressive comfort and stand-out interior. 

It’s also benefited recently from a mid-life update, which introduces a sharper look, redesigned infotainment system and the latest technology – including new digital LED lighting that you can even configure. There’s also a new ‘Sportback’ model for the first time, which brings coupe-like styling to this SUV’s line-up. 

But if you’re considering a new Audi Q5, what do you need to know? Here’s our buyer’s guide reveals all… 

What powertrains are available?

Whether it’s a petrol, a diesel or a plug-in hybrid, the Audi Q5 range offers something to suit most buyers.

While the line-up will grow in the coming years, currently there’s just one diesel available – a 201bhp, 2.0-litre option (badged 40 TDI). Allowing for a 0-60mph time of 7.4 seconds and a fuel economy figure of 45mpg, it remains the pick of this SUV’s range. 

If you fancy a petrol, there’s the 45 TFSI, which uses a 261bhp 2.0-litre petrol unit that allows for a 0-60mph time of six seconds, though with a 33mpg fuel economy, it could be quite thirsty to run. 

There’s also a choice of two plug-in hybrids – the 50 TFSIe and the 55 TFSIe. Each uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor to produce a total of 295bhp on the standard car and 362bhp on the top-spec hybrid. Both deliver strong performance and an electric range of around 30 miles, which Audi claims allows for a 188.2mpg fuel economy figure and CO2 emissions of 35g/km. 

What trim levels are offered?

Six trim levels are available on the Audi Q5, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows. 

Sport – from £42,370

All Q5 models come with plenty of equipment, with highlights including 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather upholstery and heated front seats. You also get three-zone climate control, a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring and 12.3-inch digital dials. Other features include keyless start, a reversing camera and cruise control. 

S line  from £44,920

Upgrading to the S line brings 19-inch alloy wheels, sports suspension and a much more stylish sports body kit. You also get Matrix LED headlights, Alcantara and leather sports seats and brushed aluminium interior inlays. 

Competition – from £56,595 (PHEV only) 

Exclusively available on the 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid, this grade brings 20-inch alloy wheels, Nappa leather upholstery and electric front seats with massage function. You also get keyless start, an upgraded sound system and wireless smartphone charging. 

Black Edition – from £48,745

Building on the S line, the Edition 1 features 20-inch alloy wheels, red painted callipers and a full back styling kit that includes the grille, Audi badges, door mirrors and roof rails. Nappa leather upholstery is also included, along with multi-coloured LED interior lighting and electric front seats.

Vorsprung – from £60,070

Vorsprung is the flagship model in the regular range. It gains large 21-inch alloy wheels, digital LED lights, a panoramic sunroof and heated rear seats. A heated steering wheel is also included, along with wireless smartphone charging and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. All manner of safety kit is also included, such as a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, turn assist, side assist and a 360-degree camera. 

Competition Vorsprung – from £71,745 (PHEV only) 

This grade mirrors the Vorsprung grade, but is available exclusively with the top-spec plug-in hybrid. 

What about personalisation?

With two body styles to choose from and a range of trim levels, which each share different looks, there is no shortage of things to choose from on the Q5. There are also some cool colours to choose from, including the bright Ultra Blue and a quirky District Green. 

The range of traditional optional extras is relatively limited, though, so it could be worth choosing the spec that works best for you, rather than going down the optional extra route. 

Enquire on a new Audi Q5