9 Best & Worst Audi Q5 Years (With Facts & Stats)

The Audi Q5 is a luxury compact SUV that was introduced as a 2009 model year in the U.S. 

The model boasts a stylish design, a comfortable and class-leading interior, and high-performance engine options. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best and worst model years of the Q5.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Audi Q5 Are:

The best Audi Q5 model years are 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, and 2017. The worst model years of the Q5 are 2011, 2012, 2010, and 2018. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Audi Q5?

2023 Audi Q5

The 2023 Q5 is a well-rounded small luxury SUV that has the most up-to-date features and tech, it is part of the second generation that was launched for 2018.

It comes with an available plug-in hybrid powertrain, has a roomy cabin, and has premium build quality.

New features for 2023 include standard adaptive cruise control and a Bank & Olufsen audio system for the Premium Plus trim. 

It comes in 6 trim levels: Premium, Premium S Line, Premium Plus, Premium Plus S Line, Prestige, and Prestige S Line.

The midrange Premium Plus S Line trim is arguably the best out of all available options because of its numerous safety and entertainment features and value for money (approx. $52,700). 

  • Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 73 / 100

2023 Q5, Edmunds review:

“I was actually looking for a sporty AWD wagon when I decided to test drive a Q5. I loved the way it drove and the technology package included with the trim level. It is a smooth drive with precise driving (for an SUV) and felt powerful when I wanted/needed it…”

2022 Audi Q5

The 2022 Q5 is another great choice, it ticks many boxes including performance, reliability, style and comfort.

For 2022 a new 201-horsepower base engine was introduced. infotainment features were expanded, and a bigger 17.9-kWh battery was introduced for the plug-in hybrid.

Fuel economy estimates for the 45 TFSI model are respectable at 23 MPG for city driving, 29 MPG for highway driving, and 25 MPG for combined driving.

All Q5s come with all-wheel-drive paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automated transmission. 

Notable safety tech includes Pre Sense City which is forward collision warning with auto emergency braking and pedestrian detection, and also Side Assist – akin to a blind spot warning system.

This model also scored a perfect 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA.

  • Edmunds: 3.1 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 73 / 100

2022 Q5, Edmunds review:

“The engine and transmission are perfect. I would put it in dynamic mode for better throttle response. MMI interface is crisp and easy to use. I liked the interior design better than the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60. Also, compared to XC60, I like that it has actual switches and knobs. My only complaint is the lack of enough legroom in the second row…”

2020 Audi Q5

The 2020 Q5 is another solid option when shopping for a small, premium SUV.

It has a quiet, comfortable cabin matched with top-tier interior craftsmanship and has been praised for its intuitive tech.

For 2020 a plug-in hybrid engine was introduced, ideal for reducing your carbon footprint.

Standard models come with a 2-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine offering 248 horsepower.

Although not as roomy as some of its rivals, the 2020 Q5 has plenty of hooks, cubbies and nets to keep smaller items in place.

  • Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 72 / 100

2020 Q5, Edmunds review:

“I usually drive the Lexus RX, bought this after a lot of research and the drive makes me appreciate the road completely. Love this car so far. It grips the road, handling and acceleration are solid and it is a standard 4-wheel drive. The premium plus trim is nice. Good gas mileage. Compared to the Lexus, the pros are the acceleration, the handling, sporty ride, the cons are that you feel the road more if you think that is a bad thing. Nice range for a full tank.”

2019 Audi Q5

The 2019 Q5 was Audi’s best-selling model in 2018, and it’s easy to see why. This model received notable upgrades including added power, enhanced efficiency and revamped styling.

A number of safety features were added as standard, a new 7-inch driver information display was introduced, and the Premium Plus trim came with a navigation system and wireless phone charging capability.

The 2019 Q5 is powered by a 2-liter TFSI (turbo fuel stratified injection) engine that boasts 248 horsepower and 273 pound-foot of torque.

EPA estimates are 22 mpg for city driving, 27 mpg for highway driving, and mpg MPG for combined driving. 

It scored a perfect 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating and comes with a number of safety features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Side Assist, and Rear Side Airbags. 

  • Edmunds: 4.5 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 79 / 100

2019 Q5, Edmunds review:

“It’s terrific. We bought it primarily for my wife to use. It is beautifully appointed, handles well based on our standards, certainly seems to have all the niceties that a luxury SUV should have. This is particularly true when considering the electronics, most importantly the safety features – adaptive cruise control, parking assistance, lane departure, all-around cameras, blind-spot warnings – that are important to us…”

2017 Audi Q5

The 2017 Q5 is the final installment of the first generation, and it is the most reliable first-gen model too based on NHTSA data. If you are on a slightly tighter budget, this is a great option.

This model scored strong reviews from owners and auto critics alike.

It comes in 4 trim levels: 2.0T Premium, 2.0T Premium Plus, 3.0T Premium Plus, and 3.0T Prestige.

Owners praised this model for its comfort, appearance, and ride quality, among other positive aspects.

It comes with Quattro all-wheel-drive as standard and an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission system.  

  • Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
  • Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
  • JD Power: 80 / 100

2017 Q5, Edmunds review:

“The Q5 is well made, fast, comfortable and quiet. The most impressive thing for me was the power of the 4 cylinder turbo. I was really aiming for the 6 cylinder. But, it was unnecessary as the 4 is fast, powerful and it shifts beautifully. The moon roof and features are impressive. Gas mileage has been very good. Overall, very happy with this decision.”

Consumer Scores For Best Audi Q5 Years

Model YearEdmunds
Consumer Rating
Kelley Blue Book
Consumer Rating
JD Power
Consumer Rating
2023 Audi Q53.1 / 5.04.2 / 5.073 / 100
2022 Audi Q53.1 / 5.04.2 / 5.073 / 100
2020 Audi Q54.1 / 5.04.2 / 5.072 / 100
2019 Audi Q54.5 / 5.04.2 / 5.079 / 100
2017 Audi Q54.3 / 5.04.4 / 5.080 / 100

Related: 6 Most Common Problems With Audi Q5 (Explained)

What Are The Worst Years For The Audi Q5?

2011 Audi Q5

According to NHTSA data, the 2011 Audi Q5 is the most problematic model year produced. The most significant issue was its timing chain which was prone to failure.

In many instances owners reported that when the timing chain failed it caused damage to the cylinder heads and valves, which caused catastrophic engine damage.

Outside of warranty, this left owners with staggering repair bills in the region of $14,000.

This model was also widely affected by the infamous Takata recall, whereby the airbags were known to explode and fire metal fragments into the cabin.

Owners were left waiting extended periods for repairs.

The 2011 Q5 had a total of 14 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 189 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Crankshaft chain skipped
  • Premature brake wear
  • Excessive oil consumption

2012 Audi Q5

The 2012 Audi Q5 is another problematic model year you should steer clear of. Its most serious issue is excessive oil consumption.

Here is what owners had to say:

“Excessive oil consumption. Needs 1 quart of oil per tank of gas, more often with city driving. Issues most likely with original rings and pistons. Repair likely $6000. Oil consumption not disclosed as a problem when I bought the car 4000 miles ago. Currently 106,000 miles.”

“Q5 takes about 2 quarts of oil every 400-500 miles. There are no oil leaks. It’s at 117,000 miles. Don’t know what to do. Vehicle runs great but the oil sign comes on every 500 miles.”

Issues with the timing chain were also widely reported which often led to serious engine problems.

The most common complaint for the 2012 Q5 was related to the Takata airbag recall (exploding airbags).

Due to the widespread nature of the issue, owners were left waiting for an unacceptable time for repairs, due to parts shortages.

The 2012 Q5 had a total of 43 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 178 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Excessive oil consumption
  • Sunroof shattered
  • Makes irregular sound

2010 Audi Q5

The 2010 Audi Q5 received a large number of complaints due to fuel leakages.

The problem was caused by a fuel pump flange that was prone to cracking, allowing fuel to leak.

Here’s one owners report:

“I noticed a fuel smell emanating from the rear seat area on the passenger side of the vehicle, a 2010 Audi Q5 with 104,500 miles. This was noticeable both while driving and stationary while parked in the garage. After further investigation, I visually saw fuel drops around the rear passenger seat on the bottom of the vehicle.”

The 2010 Q5 was also affected by the Takata recall, whereby airbags where prone to exploding.

The 2010 Q5 had a total of 7 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 111 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Excessive oil consumption
  • Electronic control unit (ECU) failure
  • Premature brake wear

2018 Audi Q5

In recent years, the 2018 Q5 is the most problematic model.

This is to be somewhat expected as it was the first installment of the second generation, and it had its share of teething issues.

Complaints were varied but mostly related to equipment, including Bluetooth connectivity issues, presence detector issues, warning lights coming on, and issues with the rearview camera.

There were also a number of complaints due to non-responsive brakes, here’s what owners had to say:

“I was trying to park my car in my office parking space, after right turn to parking space, I applied brake to stop, but the car suddenly accelerated and within few seconds it crashed into the office building. I was still applying brake when it accelerated and I could not do anything else.”

“While driving at a relatively low speed, approximately 30 mph, I approached a red light and proceeded to slow down. The brakes did not engage, so I continue to pump them but had to swerve into the right lane to avoid hitting the car in front of me.”

The 2018 Q5 had a total of 12 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 108 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.

Common problems:

  • Car turns off while driving
  • Heated seats do not work
  • Gas pedal clicks

Related: How Long Do Audi Q5 Last? (11 Important Facts)

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

Model YearComplaints(CarComplaints.com)Problems(CarProblemZoo.com)
2023 Audi Q55
2022 Audi Q541
2021 Audi Q5149
2020 Audi Q5518
2019 Audi Q5130
2018 Audi Q512108
2017 Audi Q5140
2016 Audi Q51360
2015 Audi Q51571
2014 Audi Q54891
2013 Audi Q52793
2012 Audi Q543178
2011 Audi Q514189
2010 Audi Q57111
2009 Audi Q5434

What Problems Do Audi Q5 Have?

  • Excessive oil consumption
  • Blown engine
  • Died while driving
  • Will not start
  • Timing chain problems
  • Sunroof shattered
  • Makes irregular sound
  • Air conditioning not working
  • Crankshaft chain skipped
  • Premature brake wear
  • Uncomfortable seats
  • Foul odor from vents

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Audi Q5?

Make & ModelScoreMSRPFuel Economy (MPG)
Genesis GV708.7$42,900 – $55,000City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 24 – 28
BMW X38.5$45,400 – $72,900City: 15 – 23 /Highway: 20 – 29
Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class8.5$43,850 – $66,500City: 16 – 22 /Highway: 24 – 28
Acura RDX8.2$41,350 – $53,350City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 28
Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class8.2$39,800 – $51,500City: 21 – 24 /Highway: 27 – 32
Lincoln Corsair8.1$36,580 – $51,810City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 28 – 29
Volvo XC608.1$43,450 – $74,150City: NA /Highway: NA
Jaguar F-Pace8.0$52,400 – $89,500City: 15 – 22 /Highway: 21 – 27
Lexus NX8.0$38,605 – $49,815City: 22 – 26 /Highway: 28 – 33
Audi Q58.0$43,500 – $59,200City: NA /Highway: NA
Porsche Macan7.9$57,500 – $82,900City: 17 – 19 /Highway: 22 – 25
BMW X47.8$53,400 – $76,400City: 15 – 21 /Highway: 20 – 28

Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com

Related: Audi Q5 in Snow & Winter Driving (Explained)

References

https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/q5

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/audi/q5

https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q5/

https://www.kbb.com/audi/q5/

https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/audi/q5

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Audi/Q5/

https://www.carproblemzoo.com/audi/q5/

Author:

  • Ian Sawyer

    Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...