2018 Audi Q5

By Alex Forrest

2018 Audi Q5

As the second biggest-selling model in the Audi line-up after the A3, the Q5 is a tremendously important vehicle for the premium German brand. 

With all-new renditions of its premium SUV competitors launched in 2017 such as the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60, the timing of the new Q5, also launched in 2017, was absolutely spon-on. 

Externally, the new Q5 gets sharpened-up front-end styling, but one of the most impressive changes it ushers in is the improvement in its fuel economy. 

The new diesel Q5s are up to 90kg lighter than the comparable models of the previous generation, which contributes to a 12 per cent reduction in fuel consumption. 

Specifically, the all-wheel drive system is a contributor here due it being 4kg lighter itself, but it also works differently from how it did before. 

The AWD system is able to disengage two clutches involved in sending drive to the rear wheels, meaning the propeller shaft and rear differential are not connected to the wheels and causing drag. According to Audi, the first clutch is at the front of the propeller shaft, while the second opens in the rear differential, which saves the drag of the differential drive gear turning in the oil bath.      

When the system senses a need for the traction of all-wheel drive, the clutches engage and send torque rearwards again. 

The transmission has been tweaked to improve economy as well. 

Engine choices comprise a 2.0-litre turbo diesel with 140kW and 400Nm, and a 2.0-litre turbo petrol with 185kW and 370Nm.

The Q5’s interior is still beautifully finished, however those of its competitors are now on par with it. Personal taste will be the deciding factor on this front. 

The front seats provide a good range of adjustability, but the ones on the entry level variant, the S tronic design, could do with more side support. 

The new Q5’s veneer of prestige brought by its revised exterior will be important to some buyers.  

However, the real benefits come from the fuel economy, safety and handling improvements made possible by technology buried deep within, which buyers will never see but benefit from every day. 

Specifications