2024 Audi Q5 Expert Review
Reviewed by Billy Rehbock
The 2024 Audi Q5 is the bread and butter of the German luxury automaker's lineup. This compact SUV sits at the heart of Audi's SUV range and is the brand's bestselling vehicle. For 2024, changes are minor, but handsome exterior design and a stylish, tech-forward interior remain essential to the Q5's appeal. The Audi Q5 competes with other luxury compact SUVs including the Genesis GV70, Volvo XC60, and BMW X3.
What's New
- Standard active lane assist
- Standard heated steering wheel
- Standard hands-on detection with capacitive grip detection
- Remote engine start for gasoline models via myAudi app
- Black Optic package available for Q5 40 models
- Sport front seats and Gray-Brown Birch wood inlays standard for Q5 45
- Updated Black Optic package for Q5 45, 55, and 45 Sportback trims
- Arkona White replaces Ibis White exterior paint color
What We Think
By virtue of its sheer popularity, the Q5 plays a heavy hand in determining Audi's identity as an automaker. Dressed in taut bodywork and an upscale interior, the 2024 Q5 remains one of the most visually appealing models in the compact luxury SUV segment. This is especially true of the rakish Audi Q5 Sportback.
The Q5's allure extends to a lineup of powerful powertrains that range from the expected turbo-four units that appear in most models within the class to the sporty SQ5's torquey turbocharged six-cylinder option. We also appreciate the inclusion of a Q5 55 TFSI E Quattro PHEV, which is the quickest and most powerful model within the lineup.
An uninspired driving experience holds the Q5 back from segment dominance. Although we appreciate the comfort provided by the SUV's suspension tuning, steering and handling engagement are minimal. We've also noted that the Q5's back seat feels tight and that its cargo volume is lacking compared to segment rivals.
Still, the Audi Q5 remains popular for good reason. It backs up the brand cachet of its badge with luxurious and high-tech amenities. We love Audi's interior design and material selections, which will make the premium price tag worth every penny for some buyers. Those in the market for a compact luxury SUV should know there are other options available, but the Q5 still warrants a gander.
Performance and MPGs
The standard Audi Q5 range includes two gasoline-only models, both of which make use of a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The entry-level model carries the 40 TFSI name, delivering 201 hp and 263 lb-ft of torque. Audi claims a 0-60-mph time of 6.8 seconds for this model. The EPA rates this model at 23/29 mpg city/highway.
Upgrading to the 2024 Audi Q5 45 TFSI adds a 12-volt mild hybrid system and a retuned engine producing 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. In our testing, this model sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. EPA mileage for the 2023 Q5 45 TFSI was rated at 22/29 mpg, which we expect to carry over for the new model year.
2024 Audi SQ5 0-60 MPH Time
Buyers in search of a performance-focused SUV from Audi should check out the 2024 Audi SQ5. This model comes standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 engine developing 349 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. All SQ5 SUVs come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, and model-specific adaptive damping suspension and brakes. In our testing, the SQ5 shot from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. SQ5 vehicles were rated by the EPA at 19/24 mpg for the 2023 model year.
2024 Audi Q5 55 TFSI E Quattro Performance, Range, and Charging
The most powerful model in the Audi Q5 lineup is the 55 TFSI E Quattro, which makes use of a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder, an electric motor, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Total system output is rated at 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, which makes this version of the Q5 good for a 0-60-mph sprint of 4.5 seconds, according to our tests. A 17.9-kWh battery allows for 23 miles of all-electric driving range. Max charge rate is limited to Level 2 capability at just 7.4 kW.
Safety Ratings and Features
The IIHS named the 2023 Audi Q5 a 2023 Top Safety Pick. It received five stars overall from the NHTSA.
Audi equips the 2024 Q5 with a host of standard active driver assistance equipment. Features include adaptive cruise control with lane keeping, automatic emergency braking, side cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beams.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although the 2024 Audi Q5 has as much passenger space as rivals on paper, we noted that its second row feels tight in our testing. Additionally, cargo volume is down compared to the Q5's closest competitors.
Technology
Audi outfits the 2024 Q5 with a standard 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and an infotainment suite featuring a 10.1-inch display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Stepping beyond the Premium trim to Premium Plus and Prestige models equips 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera. Prestige models come with built-in navigation, a head-up display, and 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Recommended Trim
We recommend shoppers stick with the mid-level 2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus 45 TFSI, which starts just over $53,000. This model is quick, efficient, and comes with the technology buyers expect from the automaker. Features include an all-digital gauge display, 360-degree camera, and wireless charging. For 2024, Audi outfits this trim with sport seats and handsome Gray-Brown Birch natural wood inlays, adding to the model's luxurious and sporty character.
