2018 Audi Q5 review
Audi Q5 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- New look is still classy and restrained
- Improved infotainment functionality and connectivity
Cons
- Only one engine choice for 2018
- Still less trunk space than more practical rivals
Mileage (EPA estimate)
23 city, 27 highway, 25 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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All-new 2018 Audi Q5 packs more tech, sharper looks
The Q5 luxury compact SUV is Audi's biggest-selling model in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. 2018 is an important year for the Q5, too, because the second-generation model replaces the popular first one, which debuted in 2009. The all-new car brings a smoother ride thanks to a new chassis, standard all-wheel drive, and a more modern, easier-to-use suite of technology options. You'll also find better connectivity with your smartphone.
Given how successful the Q5 has been, it's not surprising Audi has opted for welcome improvements rather than radical changes in this all-new model. The engine choice is limited, though, with only the 252-hp 2.0T gasoline engine offered in the regular range. The SQ5 performance model packs a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. The trim choices are Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, with extra-cost options to add equipment. The Q5 has proved a huge success as a luxury compact SUV, and it remains a very appealing choice even as more rivals join the mix.
All Audi Q5 years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Audi Q5 generation from 2012 to 2025
What is new for the 2018 Audi Q5?
- Q5 trims have been upgraded with Head Up Display, 20 Inch Plus Wheels, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard equipment this year.
- Lane Departure Warning, Rear Seat Heaters, and Heated Steering Wheel features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Prestige trim now comes with Turbo Charged Engine as standard equipment.
- The Premium trim now comes with Smart Key, Rear View Camera, and Memory Seat(s) as standard equipment.
- The Premium Plus trim now comes with Parking Sensors, Rear View Camera, and Blind Spot Monitor as standard equipment.
2018 Audi Q5 trims
Curious how Audi Q5 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesPremium:
- 252-hp, 273-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Side Airbags
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seats
- Rear Defroster
- Smart Key
- Cruise Control
- Rear View Camera
- Memory Seats
- View our Audi Q5 Premium inventory
Premium Plus:
- Includes all features available on the Premium
- Parking Sensors
- Front Seat Heaters
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Satellite Radio Ready
- View our Audi Q5 Premium Plus inventory
Prestige:
- Includes all features available on the Premium Plus
- Head Up Display
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Navigation System
- Bang & Olufsen Audio
- View our Audi Q5 Prestige inventory
Audi Q5 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2018 Audi Q5
1. Lively performance
The 2018 Audi Q5 offers two powertrain options to suit various driving styles. All 2018 models feature a standard 252-hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine and a seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch automatic transmission that can cover zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). If you crave zestier acceleration, the 2018 SQ5 uses a 354-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine with an eight-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmission. With this setup, the 2018 Audi SQ5 flies from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds flat (according to the manufacturer, when new). Whether merging onto the highway or making confident passing moves, the 2018 Audi Q5 brings the power.
2. Agile handling
If you're looking for a luxury SUV when the asphalt turns to gravel, the Q5 rises to the occasion. All 2018 models include Audi's Quattro® all-wheel drive for extra traction in challenging conditions. This advanced system senses changing surfaces and adjusts the SUV's grip by distributing power to the wheels that need it most. AWD also pairs with a five-link front and rear suspension, which effortlessly glides over road imperfections. With five Audi drive select modes—Comfort, Dynamic, Auto, Individual, and Offroad—you can customize the 2018 Q5's steering, suspension, and throttle responses to suit your behind-the-wheel experience.
3. Luxurious interior
For nights on the town, the 2018 Audi Q5 impresses with a premium interior that includes standard leather upholstery, high-gloss dark brown walnut wood trim, and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. 2018 Audi Q5 Premium Plus trims include more conveniences, like heated front seats and driver's seat memory, a panoramic sunroof and stainless steel front door sill inlays. Your passengers will appreciate the split-folding 40/20/40 rear seats, which slide forward and backward to provide 37.8 inches of legroom.
4. Clever tech
The 2018 Audi Q5 comes loaded with several tech features to enrich your daily drive. Anchoring the dash is an MMI® infotainment system with a seven-inch center display, which features standard Bluetooth® connectivity for streaming audio and wireless technology. The Audi smartphone interface also boasts Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration for seamless access to your favorite apps, messages, and more. Opting for the Prestige trim unlocks additional smart features, including MMI navigation with a larger 8.3-inch center display.
5. Accessibility features
Feel more confident on your commute with the 2018 Audi Q5's impressive array of driver aids. All trims include Audi Pre Sense® Basic, which closes windows and pre-tenses seat belts when the cameras detect a probable accident. This feature pairs with Audi Pre Sense City, which deploys a series of warnings and applies the brakes if it sees other vehicles or pedestrians in your path. Premium Plus trims also add rear cross traffic and vehicle exit assistance to keep you aware of your surroundings in busy parking lots.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.6 out of 5
25 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 19 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 3 |
| 3 Stars | 1 |
| 2 Stars | 2 |
| 1 Star | 0 |
RepairPal gave the Audi Q5 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Audi Q5 19th out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Audi Q5Audi Q5 features and specs
Curious how Audi Q5 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Premium 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 4WD/AWD
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Heated Mirrors
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Navigation System
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Smart Key
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
252
Torque (ft-lbs)
273
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
18.5
Wheelbase
111"
Overall length
183.6"
Width
74.5"
Height
65.3"
Leg room
F 41"/R 37.8"
Head room
F 40.2"/R 37.7"
Front tires
P235/60HR18
Rear tires
P235/60HR18
Seating capacity
5
Max towing capacity
440/4400 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2018 Audi Q5 FAQ
The 2018 Audi Q5 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Premium: 23 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway
- Premium Plus: 23 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway
- Prestige: 23 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway
The Audi Q5 received a rating of 3 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Audi Q5 as 18 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUV
The 2018 Audi Q5 has received an average 4.6 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2018 Audi Q5, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2018 Audi Q5 Reviews.
The 2018 Audi Q5 has a maximum towing capacity of 4400 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2018 Audi Q5:
- Head Up Display
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
- Rear Seat Heaters
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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