There is a reason you see quite a few Audi Q5 models (across the generations) on the road. For years, it has quietly been the brand’s global best-seller, the default answer for buyers who want something premium, modern and not from ‘the other two brands’. But does the new model still deliver?
In this day and age of ‘bargain’ SUVs from the east, it’s getting harder to make a case for the European premium SUV market.
But if you have deeper pockets and prefer something more premium and Teutonic, I’m here to tell you that after a few days of living with the Audi Q5, it is really worth a look.
It still looks the part, just in a different way
Audi has taken the route of evolution, rather than revolution.
Up front, the headlights are now slimmer, sharper, more focused. The change modernises the face immediately, though it means the Q5 loses a little of the chunky, rugged feel older versions carried so well.
Move to the rear, and things get more theatrical. The dancing OLED lights and full-width light bar are detailed, technical and very much in line with what buyers expect from a contemporary Audi.
It still sports a big grille, strong shoulder lines, and is blessed with nice, tidy proportions. So yes, the road presence part is sorted.
Step inside, relax
The cabin is where the Q5 really starts flexing.
Everything looks clean, modern and properly assembled. Gloss black, aluminium accents, crisp screens. You sit down, and within minutes, you are quickly comfortable in the space.
The 14.5-inch touchscreen is one of the better systems in the business. Tile layout, logical menus, handy shortcuts, plus quick access to the climate controls along the bottom. Unlike many modern cars, especially EVs, there’s no learning curve with this SUV.
The driving position comes easily. Rear passengers get good space and even built-in sunshades, a small touch that families will appreciate.
Boot space stands at 520 litres. Useful, though worth noting that some rivals do offer more.
If you start poking around, the centre console can sound a bit hollow from certain angles, but most owners are unlikely to spend their day tapping interior plastics anyway.
The everyday brilliance
This is where the Q5 earns its reputation.
The steering has reassuring weight, the body control is tidy, and the suspension walks a nice line between comfort and discipline. It feels composed on the motorway and capable enough when the road throws a few bends your way.
You can hustle it if you want to, and it will not protest.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 201 bhp. In normal driving, it is quiet and refined, more than adequate for family duties. Start asking for more, though, and it begins to sound a little strained, reminding you that excitement is not really the brief here.
Rivals with more advanced mild-hybrid setups deliver smoother stop-start behaviour, but it is hardly a deal-breaker. What matters is that the Q5 is, somehow, easy. Easy to place, easy to drive, easy to trust.
Day after day, that counts for a lot.
The elephant in the (show)room
Here is the reality buyers will wrestle with (and I know, but am not ashamed, that I’m always harping on this topic).
At this price level, some shoppers will inevitably glance across the market and realise they could step into a very well-equipped Chinese electric SUV for similar money, sometimes with more technology and a longer list of features.
But if we narrow the conversation to traditional premium SUVs, the Q5 still lands squarely where it needs to. Quality, comfort, brand pedigree and a driving experience that feels polished rather than experimental.
For many buyers, that reassurance is worth paying for.
Verdict
After three days together, the conclusion is straightforward.
The Audi Q5 remains a premium SUV for those who value balance. Comfort without floatiness. Handling without harshness. Technology without intimidation. Judging by how many previous generations you still see on the road, that strategy has worked out rather well.
It is not trying to be the loudest or the most futuristic option in the carpark. It is trying to be right. And for some, that will do.
Technical Specifications
Audi Q5 Mild Hybrid 2.0 Advanced TFSI S tronic (A)
Engine: 2.0-litre. 4-cylinder in-line 16-valve Turbocharged
Powertrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Power: 201 bhp
Torque: 340 Nm
Gearbox: 7-Speed S-tronic
0-100km/h: 8.6 seconds
Top Speed: 226 km/h
Fuel Tank Capacity: 65 Litres
Fuel Consumption: 14.3 km/litre (claimed)
Price: S$369,999 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Photo Credits: Joel Tam
