Complete Guide to Second-Generation Audi Q5 (2017-2024)

The second-generation Audi Q5, which graced showrooms from 2017 through 2024, represents a significant evolution in the mid-sized premium sport utility vehicle segment. This iteration maintained the model’s reputation for blending luxury with practicality while introducing substantial technological advancements and refined engineering that appeal to discerning used-car buyers. Whether you’re seeking a fuel-efficient daily driver, a versatile family transporter, or an occasional weekend companion, understanding the nuances of this generation proves essential before making a substantial investment.

Understanding the Powertrain Landscape

The second-generation Q5 presents buyers with a remarkably diverse selection of propulsion systems, each engineered to satisfy distinct driving philosophies and usage patterns. This powertrain diversity represents one of the most compelling advantages of shopping within this model year range, offering flexibility that transcends traditional fuel-type categorization.

Petrol Engine Architecture

The petrol variants employ a turbocharged 2.0-litre configuration, delivering responsive performance characteristics while maintaining a relatively compact footprint within the engine bay. These powerplants exhibit proven reliability metrics and demonstrate satisfactory fuel consumption figures for their capacity class. The petrol option suits drivers prioritizing responsive throttle response and simplified maintenance routines, as these engines typically command lower service costs compared to their diesel counterparts.

Diesel Engine Performance

Diesel editions incorporate a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit providing substantial torque delivery, making them particularly advantageous for highway cruising and towing applications. The diesel powerplant excels at delivering composed, linear power delivery across varied driving scenarios. For prospective owners planning extensive mileage accumulation, the superior fuel economy inherent to diesel propulsion often justifies the premium typically associated with diesel acquisition costs.

Plug-in Hybrid Integration

The plug-in hybrid models represent Audi’s answer to environmentally-conscious premium buyers seeking technological sophistication. These variants combine a petrol engine with electric motor assistance, theoretically achieving remarkable efficiency figures—manufacturers cite potential fuel consumption reaching 188 miles per gallon under optimized conditions. However, realistic expectations suggest approximately 45 miles per gallon during standard driving, with the electric component providing up to 26 miles of zero-emission range at lower velocities. This powertrain configuration appeals particularly to commuters with predictable, short-distance daily routes and access to home charging infrastructure.

Efficiency Innovations and Weight Optimization

Audi engineers achieved a noteworthy 90-kilogram weight reduction compared to the preceding generation, a seemingly modest figure that yielded meaningful improvements in fuel efficiency and emissions performance across the entire model lineup. This mass reduction reflects sophisticated material engineering and component redesign rather than compromises in structural integrity or comfort provision.

The quattro ‘ultra’ on-demand four-wheel-drive system represents another efficiency-focused technology, maintaining front-wheel-drive operation during normal conditions and seamlessly engaging rear-wheel drive only when traction demands warrant such intervention. This intelligent distribution system conserves fuel during routine driving while maintaining the safety and control advantages associated with permanent four-wheel drive during adverse weather or challenging road surfaces.

Riding Qualities and Chassis Behavior

The second-generation Q5 prioritizes safety, composure, and comfort—a philosophy reflected throughout its suspension and steering architecture. The entry-level Sport variant incorporates dynamic suspension tuning, delivering a compliant ride quality particularly suitable for less-aggressive drivers and those frequently navigating deteriorated road surfaces. The S line trim introduces firmer sports-focused suspension geometry, which remains entirely adequate for typical United Kingdom driving conditions provided owners exercise restraint when selecting wheel sizes.

Potential buyers should exercise particular caution regarding the largest 21-inch wheel option available on Black Edition models. While aesthetically commanding, these oversized wheels introduce a degree of harshness during highway cruising and generate pronounced impacts traversing potholes and road imperfections. For context, the Q5’s ride quality, while respectable, cannot definitively match that of comparably-equipped Mercedes GLC models, which tend toward superior isolation and damping characteristics.

Transmission Excellence and Driving Dynamics

The seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox represents a standout component, executing rapid and seamless gear transitions while employing sophisticated software logic to determine optimal downshift timing during deceleration phases. The system permits manual override through steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, though these mechanical interfaces lack the premium tactile quality found in competitive offerings such as Alfa Romeo’s Stelvio.

The Q5 incorporates multiple driving modes designed to adapt vehicle character to prevailing conditions and driver preferences. The ‘Efficiency’ setting deliberately dampens throttle responsiveness to optimize fuel economy, while standard and sport modes provide progressively sharper pedal response. An ‘Individual’ preset allows drivers to customize specific vehicle parameters and save these configurations, eliminating tedious menu navigation during repeated driving sessions.

Interior Accommodation and Storage Provisions

The second-generation Q5 demonstrates exceptional spatial efficiency, comfortably accommodating four adults with substantial shoulder room, headroom, and legroom throughout the cabin. The sloping roofline characteristic of the design does not unduly compromise rear-passenger accommodation, as tapering roof architecture remains forgiving for occupants exceeding six feet in height. The vehicle exhibits sufficient space to accommodate five adults for extended journeys, representing a commendable achievement within the mid-sized SUV category.

Cargo Capacity Framework

The standard boot capacity reaches 550 litres, providing generous room for weekly shopping expeditions, recreational equipment, or business travel luggage. A particularly valuable optional feature—the sliding rear seat system—enables drivers to flexibly prioritize either cabin space or cargo volume according to immediate requirements. This rear seat arrangement permits the seat base to slide fore and aft while adjusting backrest inclination, potentially expanding available boot space by an additional 60 litres when configured for maximum cargo priority. The £360 investment for this option represents compelling value for versatility-minded purchasers.

The Sportback coupe-configured variant, despite its rakish roofline aesthetic, maintains surprising practicality. Even this visually dramatic model variant preserves adequate interior dimensions for adult occupancy and respectable cargo versatility, making it an attractive proposition for style-conscious buyers unwilling to compromise on functional space.

Boot Access and Convenience Features

The Q5 benefits from an exceptionally wide boot aperture, facilitating straightforward loading of bulky items, though the moderately elevated lip requires careful navigation when securing larger objects. Universal electric tailgate operation comes as standard across all model variants, activated through boot-lid buttons, key fob commands, or an optional foot-gesture recognition system permitting hands-free access. Integrated hanging hooks and available luggage restraint nets provide practical load management during spirited driving or negotiation of winding road sections. These seemingly minor features accumulate to create a genuinely functional cargo environment.

Diagnostic Considerations and Common Maintenance Issues

Prospective purchasers should approach electrical system examination with particular diligence, as electrical anomalies represent the most frequently documented fault category across second-generation Q5 ownership. Infotainment system responsiveness and climate control functionality warrant thorough testing during pre-purchase inspection, as these integrated electrical subsystems occasionally exhibit erratic behavior.

The front suspension front ball joints occasionally demonstrate wear patterns, though replacement procedures remain relatively economical compared to equivalent repairs on competing platforms. Such deterioration typically manifests through increased suspension noise, particularly during low-speed maneuvers or while traversing uneven surfaces.

Trim Level Architecture and Equipment Stratification

The North American market structure identifies three primary trim configurations: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, each building upon predecessor-level content. Premium variants emerge comprehensively equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, three-zone climate management, rear-view camera systems, steering wheel paddle shifters, leather appointments, and power-adjustable front seats coupled with electric tailgate operation and segmented rear seat adjustments.

Premium Plus editions introduce heated front seating, panoramic glass roof configurations, and fully-integrated LED headlight systems. Prestige models represent the pinnacle of specification, incorporating head-up display technology, Bang & Olufsen premium audio systems, and the Audi Virtual Cockpit—a fully digital instrument display offering extensive customization possibilities. The sophisticated top-view camera system, exclusive to Prestige models, presents a bird’s-eye perspective of the vehicle and immediate surroundings, significantly enhancing parking maneuverability within confined spaces.

More recent model-year examples, particularly examples approaching 2024 production commencement, incorporate adaptive cruise control systems, LED headlighting across Premium trim levels, and advanced driver assistance technologies including side assist awareness, active lane departure intervention, and Audi Pre Sense City collision avoidance systems that preemptively tighten seatbelts and apply brake pressure upon detecting imminent collision scenarios.

Performance-Oriented Variants: The SQ5 Consideration

The SQ5 performance variant emerged as an intriguing alternative within the second-generation Q5 landscape, available in conventional SUV proportions or the visually dramatic Sportback interpretation. The SQ5 philosophy centered upon delivering stealth performance within family-oriented packaging, initially offering petrol propulsion before transitioning predominantly toward V6 diesel configurations between 2019 and 2024. The diesel variant particularly represents an engineering achievement worthy of consideration, integrating a powerful 341-horsepower diesel powerplant into mid-sized SUV architecture—an ambitious combination delivering genuine performance thrills without sacrificing practical usability. While commanding a premium acquisition price, the SQ5 diesel variant injects genuine excitement into the second-generation Q5 portfolio.

Value Proposition and Acquisition Recommendations

The second-generation Audi Q5 presents compelling value within the premium used SUV marketplace, particularly when sourced through Audi’s Approved Used scheme. The comprehensive powertrain selection accommodates virtually any driving profile, from efficiency-focused commuters to performance enthusiasts. When evaluated against competing Mercedes GLC and BMW X3 platforms, the Q5 consistently delivers superior practicality, intuitive technological interfaces, and balanced performance characteristics.

Prospective buyers should prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on electrical system integrity, suspension component condition, and service history documentation. The investment in professional diagnostic evaluation typically proves prudent, particularly for higher-mileage examples. Given the technological sophistication inherent to this generation, ensuring comprehensive warranty coverage through Approved Used programs mitigates risk substantially.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fuel economy realistically emerges with plug-in hybrid variants?

While manufacturers cite 188 miles per gallon under optimized laboratory conditions, real-world expectations align closer to 45 miles per gallon, with electric-only range reaching the advertised 26 miles primarily during low-velocity urban driving.

Does the second-generation Q5 accommodate five passengers comfortably?

Yes, the Q5 demonstrates sufficient interior volume to accommodate five adults on extended journeys, representing respectable performance within the mid-sized SUV segment, though fourth and fifth passenger positions involve modest space compromises.

Which powertrain option suits high-mileage drivers most effectively?

Diesel variants deliver superior fuel economy and lower per-mile operational costs for drivers accumulating substantial annual mileage, despite higher initial purchase prices.

Does the Sportback variant compromise cargo functionality?

The Sportback variant maintains practical cargo dimensions despite its visually dramatic roofline, making it suitable for purchasers balancing style preferences with functional requirements.

What represents the most significant mechanical weakness within this generation?

Electrical system anomalies constitute the most frequent fault category, affecting infotainment and climate control subsystems particularly, though generally representing reparable rather than catastrophic issues.