2024 Audi Q5 Review: A Refined Luxury SUV That's Showing Its Age

The Audi Q5 needs no introduction—it's one of Audi's best-selling vehicles and consistently one of the top-selling luxury compact SUVs on the market. Although the current-generation Q5 debuted back in 2018, it remains a strong contender thanks to its refined driving experience, comfortable interior, and an array of powertrain options. However, with newer options like the Genesis GV70 and refreshed BMW X3 showing up, the aging Q5 is starting to lose some of its lustre. Our team spent a week testing the 2024 Audi Q5 to see how it stacks up.

Exterior Styling and Design

While the Q5’s exterior lines are sharp and clean-cut, they don't make as bold a statement as some newer designs. It's clear that Audi took an evolutionary approach with this generation rather than attempting to radically redesign the Q5's look. From the single-frame grille and signature LED lighting to the straightforward roofline and tailgate, it's an understated design but still manages to come across as elegant and sophisticated.

Some of our testers felt the Q5 could benefit from more character lines or unique design elements to distinguish itself further in this highly competitive segment. Subtle tweaks like the wider front intakes and flared fenders on the Prestige S-Line model help give it more visual interest, but it's not as daring or distinctive as some newer designs.

As far as size goes, the Q5 sits right in the sweet spot of luxury compact crossovers. It has easy access through its generously sized doors and a commanding seating position without feeling overly bulky on the road. Cargo capacity behind the rear seats is reasonable at 25.9 cubic feet.

Overall, while still handsome, the Q5's conservative exterior styling shows its age compared to newer and bolder designs from competitors. It plays it safe where others are taking bigger risks.

Interior Comfort, Materials, and Technology

There's no faulting Audi's premium interior craftsmanship. Soft-touch materials are used extensively with top-notch fit and finish. Our Prestige test vehicle boasted optional Milano leather upholstery that lent a luxurious ambience. Front seats offered excellent long-distance comfort and available ventilation kept occupants cool even on warm days. Rear head and legroom were adequate for adults although the sloping roofline stole some inches of headroom.

Audi's venerable MMI touch response infotainment system utilizes a 10.1-inch center display. While highly customizable and featuring sharp graphics, the interface requires more finger prodding than some competitors' systems. The optional Audi virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster provided a customizable layout. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and wireless device charging was a welcome addition.

Bang & Olufsen audio, available on higher trims, produced rich tunes. However, even basic systems are on par with many competitors from a sound quality standpoint. Navigation and driver assistance features were extensive and mostly intuitive to use. Outdated maps only came with the Prestige which was a letdown.

Overall, the Q5's layout and execution remain among the class' best. But some fancier materials, optional dual screens, and over-the-air updates could help keep pace with more modern in-cabin tech from competitors.

Engine and Fuel Economy

Our test Q5 came equipped with the 45 TFSI mild-hybrid powertrain that pairs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a small electric motor. It generates a healthy 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque which translates to adequate acceleration performance. Audi claims a zero to 60 mph time of around 6 seconds.

Drivability is smooth and refined with quick low-end response aided by the electric boost. The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic delivers seamless shifting whether in comfort or sportier drive modes. All-wheel drive grip is ample for tackling slick roads, aided by standard quattro with ultra technology.

Among gas-only powertrains, the Q5 delivers on-par fuel economy for the class. EPA estimates of 23 mpg city, 28 highway, and 25 combined were right in line with our real-world testing over a week and various road trips. Premium fuel is a must, but then again that's typical for turbo four-cylinder luxury vehicles these days.

Handling and Ride Quality

Where the Q5 really shines is out on the open road. Its well-controlled ride quality provides a cushy yet composed experience over dips and uneven pavement. Body roll is gently contained through corners and the steering feels nicely weighted for a crossover. Standard all-wheel drive traction offers surefooted control in all conditions.

While not the sportiest handler, push the Q5 harder through twisty backroads and it holds its composure admirably. Its well-balanced chassis displays impressive agility that doesn’t sacrifice ride comfort. Quicker steering would take things up a notch but overall dynamics are on par with the class leaders. Braking power from standard four-piston calipers provided predictable, linear stops.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Every 2024 Q5 comes well-equipped with advanced driver assistance tech. Standard pre-collision mitigation can auto-brake to avoid frontal impacts and lane departure warning with steering assist keeps drivers centered in their lanes. Active blind spot monitoring also helps detect vehicles lurking in adjacent lanes. These systems operated seamlessly during our evaluation.

Rain/light sensor automatic high beam headlights brilliantly switch between low and high beams automatically based on road conditions. Optional surround view camera gives a top-down view of the vehicle and its surroundings to maneuver through tight spaces with ease. SiriusXM traffic updates routed us around delays with ease.

Higher-end trims add matrix design LED headlights front cross traffic assistparking assistance and more. Overall safety scores from the IIHS and NHTSA have been top-notch. An available visual head-up display projects important readouts onto the windshield and is one of our favorite features on range-topping models.

Pricing, Warranty, and Ethics

Starting MSRPs range from $45,300 up to around $58,500 for a well-optioned Prestige model like our tester. Compared to some newer entries in the segment the Q5 is still priced competitively considering all you get inside and out. Factor in routine price dancing and most shoppers will find fair deals.

Standard coverage includes four years or 50,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper protection as well as a 12-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty. A diesel emission settlement asideAudi has earned praise for sustainability efforts like e-tron electrification using renewable energy consumption and zero waste to landfill initiatives.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2024 Audi Q5 competes strongly based on refinementinterior quality performance and available tech. It remains one of the smoothest operators thanks to the balanced chassis and luxurious cabin. Audi also backs it solidly with standard safety and available driver aids plus respectable fuel efficiency.

However not dated the Q5's styling, materials and infotainment aren't as fresh as some newer competition. Also, watch for steeper depreciation down the line as newer options gain traction. Those seeking a bit more style inside or out may gravitate towards freshened choices like the GV70 or X3.

Nevertheless do refinement quite like Audi. The Q5 showcases the brand's winning formula of understated eleganceapproachable performance and top-shelf fit-and-finish. For those priorities above cutting-edge gadgetry and extroverted looks remain a highly credible premium compact SUV choice. Just know what you're getting with this established name—a luxury bargain that's no longer the newest kid on the block.