2021 AUDI Q5 TEST DRIVE

2021 AUDI Q5 TEST DRIVE BY CAR CRITIC STEVE HAMMES

2021 AUDI Q5 45 TFSI quattro

Audi’s vehicle lineup is vast with a dizzying array of choices that even I find difficult keeping up with. So have you ever considered why it is that the Q5 has separated itself from the pack to become the brand’s best-seller? Well, if you drive one it’s pretty easy to understand. 

Audi recognizes it has a very good thing going on with the Q5 so now in addition to the standard and high-performance SQ5 models the brand with four rings has introduced Sportback and plug-in hybrid variants. 

 

 

 

But the Q I’m spending time with is the Q5 45 TFSI quattro.  Translation?  It’s the basic all-wheel drive Q5 with the 2.0-liter turbo which comes in 3 flavors: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige with prices ranging from near $45,000 to about $58,000. 

 

 

And this here is the Goldilocks model: the Premium Plus in upcharge Manhattan Gray metallic paint, with optional 20” wheels, Navigation package and Bang & Olufsen sound system for an as-tested MSRP of $53,040.  It’s imported from Mexico but the drive most certainly speaks German.       

 

 

For the 2021 model year Audi has freshened the Q5’s exterior design and updated the infotainment to the latest MMI system which is a very likable user interface which also supports wireless phone projection.

 

 

 

And then down here you’ve got the wireless charge pad in a clever spot.  This covers the cupholders when they’re not in use and then slides out of the way when they are.  As for the engine, there’s now a 12-volt mild-hybrid system with electric boost adding 13 horsepower and a stop-start system contributing an additional 1mpg bringing this one up to 25 mpg on premium. And this mid-trim Premium Plus model provides just about everything you could want in an upscale compact SUV making a very positive impression. I just wish these seats offered a little more cushioning.

Though you will not find this shade of gray on the Q5’s 2022 color palette, it really does a beautiful job of showcasing the new thinner, wider grille, redesigned side sills and new trim elements at the rear.  This one comes standard with the chrome and silver accented Advanced line exterior but note that for that the 2022 model year the Q5 moves to a standard, sportier S line appearance.  Also new for 2021, all Q5s come with dynamic turn signals…indeed, a cool look.  

Certain vehicles instantly make the perfect handshake and this is one of them.  Getting in and out, finding your comfort zone, not having to think about where certain features are and having enough room to accomplish everyday tasks is what the Q5 is all about. 

 

 

Not too big, not too small, feature-laden but not over the top, it’s an SUV aimed to please.  Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist is now standard on this Premium Plus trim and helps to destress the driver when sitting behind the wheel is reduced to monkey business. 

 

 

The Top view camera system is also now a standard feature on this trim and includes an off-screen activation switch. 

 

 

 

And the touchscreen navigation unit is user friendly with satellite mapping, intuitive controls and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.

 

 

 

 

It’s also the head unit for the impressive 19 speaker surround sound system – a $950 option.  Tri-zone climate control means no temperature wars, the panoramic sunroof adds elevated comfort to the slide and recline rear seats, and heated front seats with a heated steering wheel make winter a little more bearable. 

 

 

And there’s no need to mount your EZ-Pass on the windshield – with Audi’s Integrated Toll Module the transponder is built into the Q5’s rearview mirror. 

 

 

 

Other favorite features of mine include auto high beams, virtual cockpit plus with various, easy to change views and folding 2^nd row seats that can be dropped with remote levers and then click reassuringly into place to create a nearly flat, expanded cargo area which can be accessed by a kick of the foot. 

 

 

And if you were wondering, the Q5 can tow 4,400 pounds – not bad.

 

 

 

 

The Q5 provides the sporty performance and fun-to-drive experience you expect from an Audi while also providing exceptional ride comfort. But I have to say that with Drive Select set to either the Comfort or Auto settings the engine programming can, at least initially feel, a little sluggish; something I wasn’t expecting from an Audi with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. But once the turbo kicks in this 2.0-liter engine provides that zesty flavor we crave backed by the connected handling that the Germans do oh so well. 

Output of 261 horsepower, 273 pound-feet of torque and a quicker 0-to-60mph time of 5.7 seconds is nicely balanced with the 23mpg city/28mpg highway fuel economy, aided by the automatically disconnecting feature of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive with ultra technology.  And then with drive select, there are comfort, auto and dynamic settings which tailor the engine, transmission and steering to your wants.  

 

As I said earlier, the Q5 feels like it needs a little prodding when driven casually, a little lazy if you will, but upon awakening the turbo there’s lots of go power here backed by an appropriate amount of sportiness with relaxed but capable dynamics.  Bottom line; it just feels right.   

 

   

 

2021 AUDI Q5 45 TFSI quattro TEST DRIVE BY CAR CRITIC STEVE HAMMES  |  TESTDRIVENOW 2021 (c)