The Q5 is arguably Audi's most important model, accounting for nearly 30 percent of the German luxury automaker's total sales in 2024. While Audi has gained notoriety for its more aspirational sports cars and electric vehicles (EVs), most buyers are looking for the convenience, practicality, and refinement that the Q5 offers. This all-new third generation is more an evolution of an already capable vehicle than a complete overhaul.
Photo: Mark Takahashi
The 2025 Audi Q5 marks a transition between the old and the new models. Audi is selling both the second- and third-generation versions as 2025 model-year vehicles, but more consecutively than concurrently. In terms of size, the new Q5 is very similar to its predecessor, growing only 1.4 inches from front to back, while its power output increases by 33 percent. More noticeable changes are interior features, with a more welcoming cabin and a complete tech upgrade.
The new 2025 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury SUV that seats five. All versions share the same engine and transmission, and buyers can choose from three trim levels. The entry-level Premium trim has a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $53,495, while the midrange Premium Plus costs $57,995. Meanwhile, the top-tier Prestige trim is priced at $61,895. Prices include the $1,295 destination charge and are not adjusted for any current rebates or incentives.
For this 2025 Q5 review, Audi provided a test vehicle equipped with the Prestige trim and the following options:
The test vehicle’s MSRP was $63,290, including the $1,295 destination charge to ship the SUV to a dealership from the Puebla, Mexico, assembly plant.
Photo: Mark Takahashi
Getting in and out of the Audi Q5 is easy thanks to well-sized doorways and doors that swing wide open. The doors are also relatively thin, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight parking spots. Once inside, the cabin feels more modern and functional than before, while also providing a welcoming warmth.
The dashboard now features a prominent curved display that encompasses both the digital instrument panel and the infotainment touchscreen. I believe it is a significant improvement over the previous generation's smaller, rectangular touchscreen, which looked added on rather than bespoke. In the top Prestige trim, there is an extra touchscreen available for the front passenger. However, for the driver, it appears as a glossy black panel, thanks to a distraction-free privacy filter.
The test vehicle I evaluated featured a Pearl Beige interior that feels more open than Audi's typical understated elegance. A natural wood dashboard element also provides a lounge-like warmth that I usually associate with Volvos. Among its main competitors, the Q5's interior materials surpass those of the BMW X3 and match the quality of the Mercedes-Benz GLC.
The interior benefit is partly due to the genuine leather seat upholstery, rather than the synthetic alternatives that come standard with the competition. In the hot summer heat, they breathe better than the substitutes, and the ventilation ensures many hours of comfortable driving. The ventilation is included with the top Prestige trim, as are the front sport seats that offer solid lateral support and plenty of cushioning. The rear accommodations are not as plush, but there is enough room for my 5-foot-10 frame to stretch out.
Interior storage for your personal effects is adequate but not particularly spacious. A wireless phone charging tray, along with medium-sized cupholders, door pockets, and bins, provides a place for most personal items. Behind the rear seats, the cargo area can hold up to 27.6 cubic feet, which is smaller than the BMW X3's, at least on paper. In practice, I found the Q5 easier to carry bulkier items, and a huge under-floor bin increases its practicality. With the top trim's air suspension, you can lower the rear to make loading cargo easier.
Photo: Mark Takahashi
All new 2025 Audi Q5 models come standard with an 11.9-inch digital instrument panel, integrated behind a single curved display that also contains the 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen. They run on the latest Audi MMI system software that is both attractive and easy to operate. Features include:
You can customize the Home screen to display your preferred information, just like the instrument panel. Most features are managed through the touchscreen, and luckily, the menus are logically organized and much simpler to use than BMW's latest system.
Frequently used primary functions are operated using capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel and center console. I usually dislike capacitive touch controls because they are oversensitive, but Audi handles it better by requiring more intentional taps to activate. Some secondary features and settings are buried deeper in menus, and if you are not willing to search for them, many can be adjusted through voice controls.
Although Audi's native infotainment system is easy to use, I still prefer Apple CarPlay for audio and navigation. The familiar Apple interface and faster response to voice commands are my main reasons. It operates wirelessly, like Android Auto, and works well with the included wireless charging pad.
The Prestige trim features a 10.9-inch touchscreen for the front passenger, allowing them to stream videos or play games to make long road trips feel shorter, all without distracting the driver. They can further lessen driver distraction by taking control of audio and navigation, making it easier to serve as a co-pilot.
The standard audio system has 10 speakers, but the Prestige trim features a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen upgrade. The latter provides the clarity and power expected of premium branding, and audiophiles should know that this system is not available on lower trims. A convenient volume knob on the center stack, bridging the dashboard and console, also lets users skip through their playlist.
Photo: Mark Takahashi
The new Q5 is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) that distributes power to all four wheels. Audi estimates it will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, which is similar to the 6.0-second times claimed by comparable BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC models. Audi will also introduce a plug-in hybrid version, but has not confirmed if or when it will be available in the United States.
In typical Audi fashion, the Q5 offers a good mix of performance and comfort, falling between the sportier BMW X3 and the more luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLC. Although it has a slight edge in performance specs, it is not as engaging or fun to drive for enthusiasts. For those potential owners, I recommend stepping up to the sharper SQ5.
Acceleration is not as responsive as the BMW X3, nor is its handling. Still, if you are the type of driver who prefers a touch of sporty performance to complement a comfortable ride, the Q5 could be your ideal Goldilocks middle ground. I would caution against the 20-inch wheel "upgrade" though, as it transmits more thumps from potholes and bumps than the standard 19-inch wheels. Overall comfort is enhanced by a quiet interior that effectively blocks out road and wind noise.
Unlike many DCTs, the Q5 does not experience delayed throttle responses or awkward lurches. It operates very much like any automatic transmission, which surprised me since I thought it might have one. The automatic start/stop system was also unobtrusive, activating smoothly and quickly as I lifted my foot off the brake.
The Prestige trim's adaptive air suspension features a stiffer setting for better agility. The Sport drive modes also enhance throttle response and provide a bit more steering effort. The brake pedal feels firm and is easy to modulate for smooth, controlled stops.
Personally, I prefer a more responsive and sporty driving experience, which is why I would choose the Audi SQ5 or BMW X3. That said, I also understand that I will need to sacrifice some ride comfort to achieve that kind of performance.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the new Q5 will get 25 mpg in combined driving. Despite its significant power increase, these numbers are similar to the previous Q5's 26-mpg combined rating. The Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4Matic also has a 26-mpg combined estimate, while the competing four-cylinder BMW X3 earns an impressive 29 mpg.
My 23.2-mpg result in the Audi Q5 falls short of its EPA estimate. Still, considering my preference for performance and heavy highway traffic, I am confident I could easily reach those numbers with the right motivation.
Photo: Mark Takahashi
The 2025 Audi Q5 is equipped with a comprehensive set of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control (ACC), which its competitors typically charge extra for. Standard Q5 ADAS features include:
Stepping up to the Premium Plus or Prestige trim adds:
During my time with the Q5, all these systems worked perfectly. There were no false alarms, and the ACC operated predictably, smoothly adjusting both the throttle and brakes. The Adaptive Cruise Assist also helped decrease fatigue during traffic jams, needing only light contact with the steering wheel as the system essentially drove the vehicle without any input from me.
As of this writing, neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has released crash test results for the new 2025 Audi Q5. However, the previous-generation model received strong scores from both organizations.
According to the JD Power 2025 Initial Quality Study (IQS), the Acura RDX ranks highest in the Compact Premium SUV segment. The Lexus NX and the BMW X4 are the next highest-ranked models.
According to the JD Power 2025 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, the BMW X4 ranks highest in the Compact Premium SUV segment. The Porsche Macan and the Jaguar F-Pace are the next highest-ranked models.
Other 2025 Q5 competitors include the BMW X3, Genesis GV70, and Mercedes-Benz GLC.
The 2025 Audi Q5 is redesigned, but you would not know it from outward appearances. While the exterior styling changes are subtle, the improvements to the interior and technology features are more apparent. It provides an enjoyable experience on several levels, striking a good balance between confident handling and comfortable cruising.
While it might not be as sporty as the BMW X3, performance is not usually a top priority for SUV buyers. Instead, it excels in essentials with its intuitive infotainment system, ample cargo space, and inviting interior.
I rarely recommend splurging on a top trim, but in this case, the Prestige version makes sense. For the $8,400 premium, it adds a long list of features that further boost the Q5's many strengths. The adaptive air suspension, sound-reducing windows, premium audio system, and ventilated seats are all exclusive to this trim. Along with many other items, these features more than justify the price.
Mark Takahashi has been in automotive publishing for over two decades, contributing detailed written and video reviews for Edmunds, Car and Driver, Autoblog, CarGurus, and Capital One. His portfolio includes everything from affordable economy hatchbacks to otherworldly exotic sports cars and everything in between.
Drawing on the brand's rich history of special muscle cars, the 2027 Dodge Charger Super Bee arrives with more power and higher performance than any model ever to wear the buzzy badge.
Read the Full Article
Offering both hybrid and all-electric powertrains, Mercedes-Benz's 2028 GLA SUV offers more room and more performance, helping expand the brand's presence in the ultra-competitive subcompact premium ...See More
Read the Full Article
Arriving in late 2026, the new 2027 Subaru Getaway three-row SUV will be the largest of the brand’s now-trio of electric offerings, co-developed with Toyota. It has impressive specs that should make ...See More
Read the Full Article
Bringing the ZR1's style to a more attainable model, the 2027 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport features all the best C8 go-fast bits, including an all-new 6.7-liter V8 engine.
Read the Full Article