Audi Q5 – reliable SUV performs well in the TÜV

Used car check
Audi Q5 – reliable SUV performs well in the TÜV

The third generation of the Audi Q5 is in the starting blocks. This means that the second model (2017 to 2024, type FY) will increasingly become the focus of those interested in used cars. TÜV knows what you need to pay attention to with the mid-range SUV.

Quality

In the TÜV general inspections (HU) evaluated so far, the Q5 performed very well and hardly showed any weakness. Despite the above-average mileage, the number of defect-free examples is well above the average of the vehicles tested. The Audi, which weighs up to 2 tons, masters the lighting and braking system as well as the examination of the exhaust system and the control of oil loss without any complaints. However, the heavy SUV does have one weak point: the axle suspension. The TÜV inspectors particularly criticize the 4 to 5 year old models.

Body and interior

The 4.67 meter long vehicle does without a martial look and is easily recognized as a member of the Audi and Q families. The SUV cuts a good figure in the competitive environment of Mercedes GLC, BMW X3 and Porsche Macan. Compared to its predecessor, the engineers have clearly put a lot of effort into the chassis. The basic chassis is tuned to be more comfortable than before. If you place great value on driving comfort, look for used models with adaptive dampers or air suspension.

As is typical for Audi, the interior is well made and, at least in the higher comfort levels, is stylishly designed with decorative elements made of aluminum or real wood. The space is okay for a vehicle of this length; the trunk volume varies between 550 and 1,550 liters depending on the position of the rear seat backs.

In autumn 2020, the Q5 received a facelift, which can be recognized, among other things, by a modified front and rear design as well as a modified octagon-shaped radiator grille and new lights.

Engines and drive

Those interested in used cars can choose from four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. When it comes to petrol engines, the two-liter four-cylinder is available in versions with 185 kW/252 hp and 260 kW/354 hp (SQ5). With the switch to the WLTP driving cycle in 2018, there were some changes to the range. The 45 TFSI had 180 kW/245 hp, the 50 TFSI e was the two-liter with 220 kW/299 hp and the 55 TFSI e was with 270 kW/167 hp. The two plug-in hybrids have an electric range of almost 60 kilometers. On average, petrol engines consume between 6.9 and 9.3 liters.

The basic diesel engine is the 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 110 kW/150 hp, which was taken out of the range in 2018. Above this were the expansion stages with 120 kW/163 HP and 140 kW/190 HP (since 2018: 150 kW/204 HP). The top engine is a three-liter six-cylinder with 210 kW/286 HP (since 2018: 50 TDI), which has been joined since 2018 by a 170 kW/231 HP (45 TDI) and a 255 kW/347 HP (SQ5 TDI) variant page was placed. The WLTP consumption of diesel engines is between 6.3 and 8.2 liters.

All-wheel drive is always standard, with the exception of the respective basic diesel units. Depending on the engine, power is transmitted by manual six-speed transmissions or automatic transmissions, including seven-speed dual clutch transmissions and eight-speed automatic transmissions.

Equipment and security

As with other Audi models, the basic versions arrive quite well equipped. But as is usually the case with Audi, very few Q5 models are likely to have left the dealer's yard without any extras. Long price lists enticed with amenities such as LED lights, matrix light, air suspension, virtual cockpit, head-up display and numerous assistants.

Conclusion

The mid-range SUV foregoes a martial appearance. Its space and engine options, its chassis and its variety of equipment also speak for it. However, interested parties should take a close look at the axle suspension. Around 5,500 used Audi Q5s of the second generation are currently being offered on mobile.de. It starts at around 18,000 euros.