The second generation Q5 brought a better ride, along with more space and power, yet fuel economy has also improved. Lots of high-tech features have been added alongside a variety of standard advanced safety features. Taken together, it is one of the most well-rounded models in its class.
The standard 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 248 horsepower; for 2021 it gets 13 more hp. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission plays a supporting role, and this setup helps the Q5 feel responsive and accelerate to 60 mph in a scant 6.8 seconds. Yet, it manages a decent 24 mpg overall.
The engine is smooth and energetic in normal driving, emitting a polished growl when pressed hard. Shifting is quick, smooth and direct, but the transmission can exhibit a slight delay from a rolling stop.
If the Q5 isn't snappy enough for you, there's an SQ5 version with a new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine making 349 hp that's paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Q5's ride is firm, planted, and controlled, yet there is a level of compliance that was missing from the last generation. As a consequence, handling isn't as sporty as it once was, and the Q5 is less engaging to drive than we've come to expect from Audi models.
The Q5's reworked interior includes an uncluttered center stack that reflects Audi's latest design themes. The MMI infotainment system is filled with features, but it requires some getting used to before you can deftly operate it while driving. Once its intricacies are mastered, it proves to be a logical system. Choosing the Navigation package adds Audi's Virtual Cockpit; this feature lets you minimize the speedometer and tachometer gauges while expanding the instrument cluster into a slick, eye-catching color screen that can display audio, phone, or navigation information. The standard audio system includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Note that the electronic gear selector takes some getting used to.
We also noticed a slight step backwards in Audi's famed interior quality. The cabin still looks appropriately upmarket, but there are a couple areas where the company took a cheaper route; for instance, the door trim isn't as nicely padded as we would expect.
We would be happy, though, to sit in the firm, well-padded front seats all day long. The driver's seat gets a wide range of power adjustments, including four-way lumbar; the front passenger seat has to make do without lumbar adjustment, even at the Premium Plus trim level.
The rear seat is one of the roomiest in the class. The seatbacks recline slightly, amping up the comfort factor, as does the ability to slide the 40/20/40-split seats forward and back to increase legroom. The standard power liftgate reveals a nicely finished cargo area and a sturdy cover.
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are standard. Adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist is available.
In all, the Audi is a very satisfying package that melds luxury, refinement, comfort, room, and good fuel economy in a manageable and maneuverable size.