2021 Audi Q5 review

Styling and tech updates should put the 2021 Audi Q5 back on top of the medium SUV rankings.

Facing ever-increasing competition, Audi’s most popular vehicle in Australia, the Q5, has been freshened up with a tweak to its visual presence and a boost in engine performance for the entry-level diesel.

The 2021 Audi Q5’s strong silhouette has been enhanced with a more prominent single-frame grille and LED headlamp design, while 19- or 20-inch alloys further emphasise the wheel arches and chiselled shoulder line. It’s long way from the rounded, organic design of the first Q5 that debuted in 2009.

What tech does the 2021 Audi Q5 get?

Audi is known for cutting-edge lighting, and for the first time its new digital OLED tail-lights make their way onto the options list for the Q5. An initial batch of launch edition models will be available with metallic paint, 20-inch alloys, carbon exterior mirrors, and a black exterior styling package.

Standard equipment highlights include leather-faced seats, three-zone climate control, keyless entry and button start, wireless phone charging, digital radio and four USB outlets. Complementing Audi’s electronic ‘virtual cockpit’ dashboard, a new 10.1-inch display offers improved connectivity, with all functions operated via the haptic touchscreen.

2021 Audi Q5 power and torque

Engine options remain familiar, with the output of the entry-level 2.0-litre 40 TDI adding 10kW (now 150kW and 400Nm). With 12-volt mild hybrid technology, it delivers a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.4L/100km. Audi’s latest emission controls fitted to the diesel reduce nitrogen exhaust emissions by more than 90 per cent, making it one of the cleanest on the market.

The 45 TFSI petrol model produces 180kW and 370Nm and has a clear acceleration advantage over the diesel, reaching 100km/h in just 6.3 seconds (1.3 seconds faster).

The Q5 50 TDI is the performance leader of the regular range and the 3.0-litre V6 features more advanced 48-volt mild hybrid technology. Its engine produces 210kW and 610Nm, matched to an eight-speed transmission, and the package shortens the 0-100km/h sprint to just 5.7 seconds.

How much does the 2021 Audi Q5 cost?

Inevitably, prices have risen for the 40 TDI ($68,900), 45 TFSI ($69,600) and the 50 TDI ($89,600). The Launch Edition 40 TDI climbs to $78,300 and the 45 TSFI is $80,800.

Inside the 2021 Audi Q5

The standard four-way adjustable front seats hug occupants and overall seat comfort remains high. The 520 litres of usable cargo volume stands it in good stead against its close competitors.

The previous Q5’s interiors looked and felt more ‘crafted’ than the new version’s understated design, something not helped by the mostly dark colours. Audi offers four optional interior colour schemes, which would no doubt liven things up.

Does the 2021 Audi Q5 drive well?

Our time behind the wheel of the latest update reaffirmed what we’ve always liked about the Q5, namely its adeptness in handling all situations. Around town the 2.0-litre TDI is so quiet you’re hard pressed to tell it’s a diesel and the low down engine torque ensures it’s no slouch off the mark. Similarly, out on the open road the 40 TDI lopes along with enough in reserve for overtaking.

Audi’s suspension setup suits the tyre and rim package perfectly, and the Q5 feels taut without the annoying jiggle over minor road irregularities that some competitors exhibit. Steering is sharp and the quattro AWD system balances the power nicely when accelerating hard out of tight corners, minimising wheelspin.

The 2021 Audi Q5 at a glance

Despite the price hike, the Q5’s underpinnings remain rock solid and the 40 TDI will likely continue to be a leader in the segment.

Pros: Sharper styling; fuel efficiency

Cons: Austere interior; touchscreen is hard to reach