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Audi Q5
SUV · Gas · 41 versions · owner report
Ranked #20 of 22 luxury compact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (239 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear dichotomy.
5 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh maintenance and repair costs
Very frequent mentions of routine services costing $1,400-$3,000, with out-of-warranty repairs described as exceptionally expensive.
- Very frequentElectronic/Infotainment glitches
Includes CarPlay/Bluetooth connectivity failures, random system reboots, unresponsive screens, and parasitic battery drain causing "Low Battery" warnings in new models (e.g., 2025).
- RecurrentSunroof leaks
Noted as a design flaw in some generations (e.g., Q3/Q5), requiring extensive disassembly and often recurring.
+ 2 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentMajor mileage-related maintenance
Around 80k-100k miles, requiring replacement of PCV valve, thermostat, water pump, and fluids (transmission, differential), with costs in the thousands if deferred.
- RecurrentEngine-specific concerns
Older 2.0T engines noted for potential oil consumption issues; turbo lag mentioned as a minor characteristic.
The version owners recommend
The 3.0T supercharged V6 engine (found in pre-2017 Q5 models and in the SQ5) is very frequently recommended over the 2.0T four-cylinder for its power, refinement, and perceived reliability. For newer generations, the plug-in hybrid Q5 e is suggested as a high-feature, powerful, and efficient alternative to the performance-oriented SQ5. There is a recurrent suggestion to purchase Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) to get a better value and warranty coverage.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Lexus NX, Lexus RX, Lexus GX, Toyota Highlander and BMW X3.
Is the Q5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear dichotomy. The vehicle is consistently praised for its superior driving dynamics, handling, and refinement compared to mainstream and some luxury competitors. Owners frequently describe it as "fun to drive," "super quiet and smooth," and possessing a solid, tank-like build quality. The interior materials, paint durability, and overall "German solidity" are highlighted as significant positives. However, this is strongly counterbalanced by very frequent and serious concerns regarding long-term ownership costs, electronic reliability, and maintenance complexity. The consensus indicates high satisfaction during the warranty period or with meticulous, budgeted maintenance, but significant apprehension and reported financial strain for out-of-warranty ownership, especially with higher-mileage examples.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more engaging and refined driving alternative to Lexus and Toyota competitors, which are universally acknowledged as more reliable and cheaper to maintain. Compared directly to the Lexus NX, the Q5 is considered more fun to drive, with better sound quality, a quieter cabin, and superior interior materials, though the Lexus is chosen for its perceived long-term reliability. Versus mainstream compact SUVs like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4, the Q5 is seen as offering a substantially more premium driving experience, interior quality, and brand cachet, but at a significantly higher total cost of ownership. Among German rivals (BMW X3, Mercedes GLC), the Q5 is noted for its quiet ride and solid feel, though specific comparative dynamics are less detailed. The plug-in hybrid Q5 e is noted as a compelling alternative to the SQ5, offering similar combined horsepower with better fuel economy.
Recommended configurations
Quattro all-wheel drive is implied as standard or strongly preferred. Purchasing with an extended factory warranty or Audi Care prepaid maintenance plan is very frequently recommended to mitigate high repair costs. For used models, a vehicle with a complete and meticulous maintenance history is considered essential. For the 2013-2016 generation with the 3.0T, checking for addressed sunroof drain issues is advised. For any used purchase, a pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is strongly recommended.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize driving enjoyment, interior refinement, and brand prestige, and who are financially prepared for above-average maintenance and repair costs. Ideal for leasing or ownership during the warranty period. For long-term used ownership, only recommended for buyers who can budget for significant repairs (described as "an extra mortgage payment"), have access to a trusted independent mechanic, and secure a model with flawless maintenance records. NOT recommended for buyers with low risk tolerance, those seeking minimal ownership costs, or those without a dedicated repair budget. Strongly advised to avoid models without warranty coverage or clear service history.
Remarks
Owner sentiment is heavily influenced by the vehicle's lifecycle stage. Satisfaction is high under warranty or with proactive, budgeted care. The fear of catastrophic repair bills is a dominant theme in discussions about used models. The 3.0T V6 engine enjoys a strong reputation among enthusiasts for performance and reliability relative to the 2.0T. There are indications that the earliest examples of a new generation (e.g., the 2025 Q5 "B10") may have higher initial fault rates, consistent with new model launches. The significant depreciation of used Audis is noted as a key value proposition, allowing entry into a premium vehicle, but this is explicitly offset by the potential for high upkeep costs. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning model years from approximately 2012 to 2026.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Q5 III (GU)2024–202680 complaints · 5 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): forward collision avoidance (39) · electrical system (31) · service brakes (18)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2024-2026 Q5 is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year.
15 problems reported (3 very frequent, 5 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentDriver-assistance systems (adaptive cruise
Lane assist, collision warning, blind spot) failing at random, often requiring a restart to clear.
- Very frequentSoftware and infotainment faults including MMI freezes
Connectivity loss, and virtual cockpit blackouts.
- Very frequentMultiple simultaneous dashboard warning lights and "ghost codes" that cannot be diagnosed or cleared
+ 12 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentVehicles immobilized or requiring towing shortly after delivery
- RecurrentTrunk latch failures that disable driver-assist features
- RecurrentInterior creaks and rattles from plastic trim
- RecurrentAlarm triggering randomly or battery draining
- RecurrentRemote start and connected-app features not working
- IsolatedSteering wheel vibration or shake at speed requiring a module replacement
- IsolatedInterior LED lighting failing
- IsolatedHard or noisy engagement into first and reverse from the dual-clutch transmission
- IsolatedOverheating and coolant loss on a new vehicle
- IsolatedAlternator failure on a new vehicle
- IsolatedThrottle body and wiring replacement
- IsolatedSlow throttle response
Is a 2024–2026 Q5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Q5 II (FY)2016–2024788 complaints · 48 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (235) · engine (168) · unknown or other (106)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2016-2024 Q5 generally describe it as a solid, comfortable, and reliable luxury compact SUV, with the 2.0T EA888 engine and DL382 transmission repeatedly called "tried and tested," "near-bulletproof," and Audi's "bread and butter" model.
17 problems reported (6 recurrent, 11 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentWater pump leaks/failure
- RecurrentPCV valve failure
- RecurrentTiming chain stretch requiring replacement
+ 14 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentOil consumption
- RecurrentElectronics and software glitches
Including MMI login/initialization problems and random system warnings.
- RecurrentSuspension components and consumables wearing out
- IsolatedSunroof creaking or rattling
- IsolatedTurbo failure at very high mileage
- IsolatedThrottle body failure causing limp mode
- IsolatedECM replacement not resolving limp mode
- IsolatedA/C evaporator failure with large repair quote
- IsolatedCatastrophic engine failure on a stock, well-maintained 2018 2.0 TFSI at 35,000 miles
- IsolatedTransmission control module and valve body failure
- IsolatedTurbo pressure sensor failure
- IsolatedBattery-related dashboard warning cascades
- IsolatedSOS light and connected features inoperative on a new 2024
- IsolatedOBD communication issue causing a smog failure
Is a 2016–2024 Q5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Q5 I (8R)2008–2017967 complaints · 47 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (306) · air bags (134) · fuel/propulsion system (120)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 8R generation describe it as a genuinely enjoyable vehicle to drive with a premium feel, but nearly all of them stress that it is expensive to own and maintain, especially as mileage climbs.
12 problems reported (4 very frequent, 4 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentExcessive oil consumption on the 2.0T
- Very frequentTiming chain stretch and guide wear on the 2.0T
- Very frequentCarbon buildup on direct-injection engines (2.0T and 3.2)
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- Very frequentHigh general maintenance and repair costs
- RecurrentWater pump failure (often around 90-120k miles)
- RecurrentPCV valve failure
- RecurrentTiming chain guide rattle on the 3.2 V6
- RecurrentFuel injector / carbon-related misfires on the 3.2
- IsolatedSunroof creaking
- IsolatedWheel bearing wear
- IsolatedCam adjuster solenoid issues causing misfires and rough idle
- IsolatedElectrical and hard-to-diagnose issues
Is a 2008–2017 Q5 right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2021. Years to avoid: 2021, 2018Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Audi Q5 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 3 | 0 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2025 | 43 | 1 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2024 | 34 | 4 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2023 | 43 | 5 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2022 | 45 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 251 | 8 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 37 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 52 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 207 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 42 | 5 | engine |
| 2016 | 77 | 5 | engine |
| 2015 | 187 | 6 | engine |
| 2014 | 201 | 5 | engine |
| 2013 | 182 | 5 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices86 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · seat belts:pretensionercampaign 26V266000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2025 Q5, Q5 Sportback, SQ5, and SQ5 Sportback vehicles. The driver and front passenger seat belts may have been manufactured incorrectly, and fail to properly restrain occupants during a crash.
2024 · electrical system:propulsion system:charging:cable/cord:onboardcampaign 23V842000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
2024 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V251000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
2024 · electrical system:propulsion system:traction batterycampaign 25V080000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Audi Q5, and 2022 A7 E Hybrid Electric PHEV vehicles. The high-voltage battery may overheat.
2024 · enginecampaign 25V294000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Q5 Quattro and Q5 Sportback Quattro vehicles. The cylinder head cover screws may have been improperly tightened.
2023 · electrical system:propulsion system:charging:cable/cord:onboardcampaign 23V842000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
2023 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V251000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
2023 · electrical system:propulsion system:traction batterycampaign 24V898000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Audi Q5 PHEV and 2022 Audi A7 PHEV vehicles. The high-voltage battery may overheat.
2023 · electrical system:propulsion system:traction batterycampaign 25V080000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Audi Q5, and 2022 A7 E Hybrid Electric PHEV vehicles. The high-voltage battery may overheat.
2023 · enginecampaign 25V294000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Q5 Quattro and Q5 Sportback Quattro vehicles. The cylinder head cover screws may have been improperly tightened.
2022 · electrical system:propulsion system:charging:cable/cord:onboardcampaign 23V842000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT, Q4 e-tron Sportback, Q4 e-tron, 2020-2021 Audi A8, 2019-2024 e-tron Quattro, 2020-2024 e-tron Sportback Quattro, Q5, and 2021-2022 A7 vehicles. When using the industrial 220V/240V plug at the 100% charge setting, some home power outlets may be incapable of handling the electrical current required to utilize the compact charging system, causing the outlet or charging cable to overheat.
2022 · electrical system:propulsion system:traction batterycampaign 24V898000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Audi Q5 PHEV and 2022 Audi A7 PHEV vehicles. The high-voltage battery may overheat.
2022 · electrical system:propulsion system:traction batterycampaign 25V080000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Audi Q5, and 2022 A7 E Hybrid Electric PHEV vehicles. The high-voltage battery may overheat.
2022 · enginecampaign 25V294000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Q5 Quattro and Q5 Sportback Quattro vehicles. The cylinder head cover screws may have been improperly tightened.
2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V606000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
71 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: GU
2.0 TFSI quattro
2.0L 4-cylinder · 268 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2025–2026