The recently updated Audi Q5 now sports sharper styling and enhanced in-car technologies. We recently had a 45 TFSI model for a week-long evaluation.
The premium mid-size SUV has taken over the mantle from the compact executive saloon car. In decades past we may have compared an Audi A4 with a BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class when looking at what those looking to make a statement with their vehicle would purchase. These days, we compare Audi’s Q5 with the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC when answering the aforementioned question. It’s safe to say then that the Q5 is rather important for the Audi brand, with the recent mid-life update looking to keep the Q5 on top form. We received the updated model to review recently.
Styling
The exterior of the Q5 has been sharpened, with a revised octagonal grille, reshaped air intakes, updated headlights, a new front bumper, a new side insert along the lower portion of the doors and a new taillamp design that feature the brand’s OLED technology. Our press car was the S line model, which looks sporty, however, with the generously ticked optional extras boxes on our vehicle, we were treated to 20-inch Audi sport wheels, black roof rails, black exterior mirror caps and the black styling package which rounds off an attractive mid-size SUV package.
Interior and space
Audi really knows how to produce high-quality interiors and the Q5 is an example of this, with all tangible surfaces both feeling and looking premium. Our press unit was fitted with the sports seat up front, which are supportive and comfortable, while other niceties included the black headliner, panoramic sunroof and the Comfort package which include electrical adjustment and lumbar support for the heated front seats and the addition of the Storage and Luggage package which includes nets to hold items in place in the boot and behind the front seats.
The big news is that there’s a new infotainment system that utilises the brand’s MIB 3 technology which is said to offer ten times the computing power of the MIB 2 unit. The MMI infotainment system itself sports a 10.1-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality and keen observers will note the lack of a centre rotary dial to control functions, with the touch-capacitive screen taking over that duty. Our test unit has the R29 400 Technology package, which adds the MMI Navigation plus, an enhanced version of the virtual cockpit digitised instrument binnacle and access to the Audi connect services. The system proved agreeable during our time with the car, with quick response times and incredible sound provided by the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.
From a practical perspective, the Q5 is wonderful for four occupants, with two up front and two in the second row, any more than that and it gets slightly cramped. The boot offers an impressive 550-litre of space and 1 550-litres with the second row folded flat, making the loading of a mountain bike incredibly easy.
Performance and driving impression
In 45 TFSI guise, the Q5 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that is ubiquitous within the Volkswagen Group, and for good reason. It produces a healthy 183kW and 370Nm and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels, allowing for a claimed 0-100km/h time of 6.3 seconds. While there is certainly nothing wrong with the way the Q5 goes, we find that any semblance of dynamism is quite pointless in a car of this nature, but it is good to know that there is ample overtaking power on tap. Where the Q5 really excels is in its comfort and refinement, as it simply wafts along, feeling utterly luxurious in the process, despite the large wheels (optional) 20-inch wheels and low-profile rubber. The superb ride quality is no doubt attributed to the optional (R38 000) 4-chamber air suspension system with electronically controlled damping.
Safety
In 2017, the Q5 was crash-tested by the Euro NCAP vehicle safety programme, where it achieved a 5-Star rating, receiving 93% for adult occupant safety, 86% for child occupant safety, 73% for pedestrian safety and 58% for its safety assistance systems. Standard safety items include six airbags, traction and stability control while our press unit was also fitted with the optional adaptive cruise control with active lane assist and the city assistance package with the Park Assist package.
Fuel consumption
The 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine paired with the 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox is not exactly thirsty, but it is also not very frugal either, with our week test period resulting in a consumption figure of 9.3 L/100km, despite a claimed figure of 8.0 L/100km, which is why we would consider the diesel version of the Q5, which has a claimed figure of 6.2 l/100km.
Pricing
As with most premium German vehicles, our Q5 test car was specified with a raft of optional extras totalling R341 800, which when combined with the R1 013 500 list price adds up to R 1 355 300. The Q5 range comes with a comprehensive 5-year/100 000km maintenance plan as standard.
Verdict
The Q5 is certainly a well-rounded product, offering space, an opulent interior, a stylish exterior and a luxurious ride quality. You most certainly have to pay for the privilege of all of these virtues though, and the price of a well-specified Q5 can escalate incredibly quickly. If you are shopping in this segment, the Q5 has to be on your list, however, we would recommend the diesel derivative.
Keyword: Audi Q5 45 TFSI S line (2022) Review