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What’s it like?
Audi’s medium-sized SUV, the Q5 competes directly with the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Lexus NX, as well as the Volvo XC60 and Range Rover Velar. In such esteemed company, it’s difficult to stand out, but the Audi has forged its own path with its unique combination of quality, style, technology and desirability.
Perhaps it isn’t the best to drive – the BMW is more fun on the right road – but it’s still capable both on- and off-road, and with the option of air suspension allowing a really comfortable ride, it’s a relaxing thing to drive. Add in all that technology and the reassurance of a really solid cabin, as well as ample practicality and efficiency, the Q5 quickly becomes one of the most appealing used premium SUVs out there.
Which model to go for?
The Audi range is often confusing, but the Q5 line-up is fairly simple. The mainstays of the range are the 2.0-litre diesel engines, which provide more than enough performance and the best long-distance efficiency, even when paired with all-wheel-drive systems and automatic gearboxes.
However, plug-in hybrid examples, which combine 2.0-litre petrol engines with electric motors, will be common enough on the used market. With enough electric range to get you into town or to take the kids to school, they can be the most efficient choices for people who can charge regularly and do most of their driving in the local area. But for those who can’t charge at home or regularly drive longer distances, a hybrid may not be the most frugal option.
If economy is less of a concern, you can always have the sportier SQ5 model. With a 3.0-litre V6 engine – either petrol- or diesel-powered, depending on the year – the SQ5 is quick and has slightly sportier suspension, but won’t be as cheap to run. They are the most fun and the most engaging Q5 models around, though.
In terms of trim levels and equipment, the sportily styled S line models are often a popular choice thanks to their design, but they aren’t always the most comfortable versions out there. Even relatively basic Q5s are well equipped, with climate control, touchscreen navigation and the like, so if you find the S line a bit stiff on the road, there’s no harm in going for a slightly less well-equipped but more comfortable variant.
Does anything go wrong?
Audi’s reputation for reliability is generally pretty good, and the Q5 is no different. However, this generation of Q5 is a high-tech car that does have one or two electrical foibles to think about. Look out for gremlins such as faulty sensors and infotainment system issues, but the Q5 is otherwise fairly robust.
As a result, the other main considerations are the same as they would be for any other car. Think about age, condition and the number of kilometres under its belt, while favouring cars with a full service history and lots of maintenance records. Check the bodywork for scrapes and dings, and alloy wheels to make sure they haven’t been battered against kerb stones too often. Fortunately, the Q5 is common enough that tidy, well cared-for examples shouldn’t be too hard to find.