- The new model is underpinned by Audi’s PPC platform and will initially be sold in two guises in the U.S.
- All European models include a mild-hybrid system with a 1.7 kWh battery and a 24 hp electric motor.
- Audi has overhauled the Q5’s interior, bringing it in line with other models.
This is the latest and greatest Audi Q5, and it’s a big deal for the German marque. The Q5 has been a staple of its segment for over 15 years, so Audi has left no stone unturned in updating it, completely transforming the exterior design, and installing new and more economical petrol and diesel engines.
Underpinning the new Q5 is Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), and in the U.S., it will initially be sold in standard and SQ5 guises. Powering entry-level models is a 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder producing 268 hp and mated to a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission, complete with Quattro All-Wheel Drive.
Read: 2025 Audi Q8 E-Tron Gains Sporty New S Line Competition Package
The 2025 SQ5 rocks a 3.0-liter TFSI six-cylinder with 362 hp, the same seven-speed dual-clutch, and all-wheel drive. Things are a little different in Europe where the Q5 will be launched with three engine versions, all of which include a mild-hybrid system with a 1.7 kWh battery and an electric motor with 24 hp and 170 lb-ft (230 Nm) of torque.
Found at the base of the range is a 2.0-liter TFSI with 201 hp, 251 lb-ft (340 Nm), and front-wheel drive, although all-wheel drive is an option. Audi is also launching the 2025 Q5 in Europe with a 2.0-liter TDI rated at 201 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). The European-spec SQ5 has the same 3.0-liter TFSI six-cylinder as the U.S. model, producing 362 hp and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm).
Thanks to the new platform, as well as revised suspension and steering systems, Audi says the 2025 Q5 is noticeably more comfortable than the model it replaces. Standard models include Frequency Selective Dampers, while air suspension with adaptive damper controls is an option. SQ5 models ship with a sportier suspension setup.
Modern interior
A new interior concept has been adopted for the latest-gen Q5, although it’s not a radical departure from other existing Audi models. A curved display houses the 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch MMI infotainment display, while a 10.9-inch display is also available on the passenger side. A simple, flat-bottomed steering wheel is standard, but sadly, there are no physical controls, buttons, or switches for the HVAC, as they’re all housed within the screen. Interestingly, the infotainment system runs on the Android Automotive OS and includes access to apps, including YouTube. A head-up display is optional.
Audi says the cabin of the new Q5 is more spacious than ever before. The rear seats also offer plenty of adjustment, including a tilt function. Other important features of the interior include a wireless and cooled phone charger, two USB-C ports up front, and two at the rear. Those at the rear can charge at up to 100 watts, enough for a laptop.
Sleek design
Designing an SUV that looks sleek rather than cumbersome is no small feat, yet Audi has done just that. Thanks to clever styling touches, including the lovely curves and creases, the Q5 looks smaller than it actually is, and it’s nice to see a new car that isn’t dominated by sharp lines and dramatic angles. Among the key external elements include second-generation digital OLED taillights that can warn other traffic of accidents and breakdowns by displaying custom taillight graphics. Up front, you will find standard Matrix LED headlights with eight adjustable light signatures for the DRLs.
Audi has not announced U.S. pricing for the new Q5. However, we know the standard model will start at €52,300 (~$57,800) while prices for the new SQ5 kick off from €82,900 (~$91,600).
2025 Audi Q5
2025 Audi SQ5
