The base engine is a light-hybrid 2L turbo rated for 201 horsepower. The mainstream engine is a 2L light hybrid that puts out 261 total system horsepower. A turbocharged Q5 (marketed as the SQ5) 3L V6 with 354 horsepower can be custom ordered. A seven-speed dual clutch automated manual transmission is hooked up to the 2L light hybrids, with a conventional eight-speed automatic is employed with the V6. A supercar plug-inhybrid, combining the efforts of a 2L four and electric motors, produces 362 total system horsepower. Up to 40 kilometres in electric range is possible. While still labelled Quattro, Audi’s all-wheel system is no longer full time but a reactive system that is primarily front-wheel drive, with the ability to send torque to the rear wheels when needed.

The styling of the Q5 is now seriously dated and well past the need for an update. Once a style leader, Audi is now giving off an aura of self-parody.

The Q5’s cabin sticks to long-established Audi design themes but unlike the disappointing exterior, the cabin is a study in traditional elegance. Pleasing colour combinations, supple leather and chic wood and bright accents make for a welcoming cabin. The Q5 features comfortable seating and ample legroom front and rear. Cargo space is good, but not as spacious as with some competitors.

The least expensive Q5, the “40” Komfort, is, with leather seating, foot gesture power tailgate, L.E.D. headlights, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot and rear cross traffic warning, a lane keep assist system and active cruise control, very well equipped. On the base Komfort trim, migrating from the weak “40” to the strong “45” costs only $2810 as equipment levels are essentially the same.  The “45” Progressive, with alloy trim accents, lit door sills, a dual-panel sunroof, navigation and the S-Line trim packae, is seriously overpriced. Though is has a Bang & Olufsen audio system, a 360 degree camera system and a power-adjustable steering column, is expensive for what you get. Compared to the Q5 45, the 55 PHEV, with a 40 kilometers of electric range, cost $14,350 more. The V6 turbo SQ5 is priced $12,600 higher than a Q5 45 of the same trim. The fastback version, marketed as the Sportback, is priced from $2600 (Q5) to $3000 (SQ5) more than the conventional version of the vehicle. Audi’s Q3 is significantly more contemporary as far as exterior styling is concerned and not that much smaller inside than the Q5. The PHEV version of the Q5 is not eligible for any government subsidies.

Not rated, insufficient data. Reliability is predicted to be acceptable for the first four years. Engine and electrical problems are common as the vehicle ages and turbo wastegates have been failiing on VW-Auydi products and the short powertrain warranty doesn’t help owners. The hybrid model is predicted to deliver below average reliability. Expect expensive servicing costs typical of Audis. Audi’s service plan, good for scheduled services up to 70,000 km, is recommended. Short powertrain warranty. An extended warranty from Audi of Canada is recommended if you plan to keen the car past the warranty period but leasing for no longer than the warranty is the most prudent way to obtain an Audi.