2025 Audi Q5 Review | Premium SUV With Style & Tech

The Audi Q5 has long been a cornerstone of the German brand’s global SUV lineup, striking the perfect balance between practicality, prestige, and performance. In Australia, where luxury SUVs dominate urban streets and weekend getaways often demand versatility, the Q5 has carved out a loyal following.

For 2025, Audi has refined the Q5 formula with sharper styling, more advanced technology, and a stronger focus on electrification. Available in petrol, diesel, and hybrid configurations, the Q5 caters to a broad audience—from city-based executives seeking understated luxury, to families wanting space, safety, and everyday convenience.

In this in-depth review, we explore everything that makes the 2025 Audi Q5 a standout choice in the luxury SUV space, from design and performance to technology, practicality, and ownership value in Australia.

Exterior Design – Evolution of a Classic

Audi has embraced the philosophy of “subtle sophistication” with the Q5’s latest refresh. The 2025 model is not radically different from its predecessor, but it is sharper, more athletic, and better aligned with Audi’s latest design language.

• Front End: The iconic Singleframe grille is now wider and more angular, complemented by slimmer LED headlights with Audi’s new digital light signatures. Higher trims also offer Matrix LED and OLED lighting options for extra road presence.
• Profile: Clean shoulder lines, sculpted doors, and new alloy wheel designs (18 to 21 inches depending on trim) create a sporty yet elegant side profile.
• Rear Styling: Redesigned taillights feature dynamic lighting animations, while a subtle roof spoiler and chrome accents elevate its premium stance.

In Australia, buyers can choose from a variety of exterior packages—S Line for sporty styling, Black Styling Pack for a stealth look, or the more rugged off-road appearance enhancements.

Interior & Comfort – Premium Minimalism

Step inside the 2025 Audi Q5 and you’re immediately greeted by Audi’s signature cabin design: minimalist, intuitive, and premium in every detail.

• Dashboard & Layout: The centre console is cleaner than ever, with most functions integrated into the new 11.6-inch MMI touchscreen. Physical buttons have been reduced, but Audi has retained key tactile controls for essentials like climate settings.
• Materials: Standard trims use high-quality leatherette and aluminium inlays, while higher models offer fine Nappa leather, open-pore wood, or carbon fibre finishes. Soft-touch surfaces across the dash and doors reinforce its premium appeal.
• Seating: The Q5 accommodates five passengers comfortably. Front seats offer power adjustment, heating, and optional ventilation. Rear seats slide and recline, offering flexibility for long drives.
• Space: With 550 litres of boot space (expandable to 1,550 litres with rear seats folded), the Q5 is one of the more practical SUVs in its segment—perfect for family trips, golf weekends, or airport runs.

Audi has designed the cabin to be whisper-quiet, thanks to acoustic glass, advanced insulation, and refined suspension tuning that filters out road noise.

Technology & Connectivity

Technology is where the 2025 Audi Q5 makes a significant leap forward, catering to Australia’s increasingly tech-savvy buyers.

• MMI Touchscreen: A crisp 11.6-inch display powers Audi’s latest MIB 3 infotainment platform. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a built-in navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
• Virtual Cockpit Plus: The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster allows full customisation—maps, driver assistance data, media, and performance readouts all presented in high resolution.
• Head-Up Display: Projects speed, navigation, and safety alerts directly onto the windscreen for minimal distraction.
• Audi Connect Plus: Integrates apps, weather, and even voice-controlled smart assistant functions. In Australia, this includes localised data like fuel prices, parking availability, and EV charging station info.
• Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System: Audiophiles will appreciate the premium audio option with 19 speakers delivering 755 watts of crystal-clear sound.

This SUV feels more like a “rolling smart device” than just a car, ensuring owners stay connected, entertained, and informed on the go.

Powertrain Options – Petrol, Diesel & Hybrid

One of the Q5’s biggest strengths in Australia is its variety of engine choices, allowing buyers to tailor performance and efficiency to their lifestyle.

• Petrol (45 TFSI): A 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing around 183 kW and 370 Nm, paired with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. Perfect for smooth urban driving with strong overtaking power.
• Diesel (40 TDI): A 2.0-litre turbo diesel delivering 150 kW and 400 Nm, ideal for long-distance touring thanks to excellent fuel economy and torque-rich performance.
• Plug-in Hybrid (55 TFSI e): Combines a petrol engine with an electric motor for a system output of around 270 kW. With up to 60 km of pure electric range, it’s a great option for Australian commuters wanting lower emissions without sacrificing flexibility.
• SQ5 (Performance): For enthusiasts, the SQ5 packs a 3.0-litre V6 turbo delivering 260 kW and 500 Nm, sprinting from 0-100 km/h in just over 5 seconds.

All Q5 models come with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system for superior grip on wet roads and gravel tracks—perfect for Australia’s varied conditions.

Driving Dynamics

The 2025 Audi Q5 continues to strike a balance between luxury comfort and sporty agility.

• Suspension: Adaptive damping is available, letting drivers choose between Comfort, Auto, and Dynamic modes. Air suspension (optional) adds extra refinement and even off-road height adjustment.
• Steering: Light and precise in the city, yet firm enough for highway stability.
• Handling: The Q5 feels secure and planted, thanks to Quattro and a near-perfect weight balance. It’s not as athletic as a BMW X3, but its ride quality is superior.
• Performance Models: The SQ5 brings sharper dynamics, tighter suspension, and a throatier exhaust note for those who want driving thrills.

Overall, the Q5 is equally at home on Sydney’s urban streets, the Gold Coast highway, or a weekend escape to the Hunter Valley.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety remains a top priority, and the 2025 Audi Q5 arrives with an arsenal of driver assistance features.

• Standard Features: Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
• Advanced Options: Traffic Jam Assist, Predictive Efficiency Assist, 360-degree cameras, and Park Assist Plus for semi-autonomous parking.
• Crash Ratings: Expected to retain a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, thanks to its rigid body structure, advanced restraint systems, and comprehensive airbag coverage.

Families and business buyers alike will find confidence in Audi’s strong safety credentials.

Practicality for Australian Buyers

Beyond luxury and tech, the Q5 excels at the everyday stuff that matters to Aussies.

• Fuel Efficiency: Petrol models average around 8.0 L/100km, while diesels are closer to 6.0 L/100km. The hybrid option offers the best of both worlds with electric commuting and petrol backup.
• Towing Capacity: Rated up to 2,000 kg (depending on engine), making it suitable for small caravans, jet skis, or trailers.
• Warranty & Servicing: Audi Australia provides a 5-year/unlimited km warranty. Buyers can also opt for prepaid service plans, giving predictable ownership costs.

Competitors in Australia

The Q5 competes in one of the most competitive SUV segments. Key rivals include:

• BMW X3 – sportier handling but less refined ride.
• Mercedes-Benz GLC – more flamboyant styling, similar tech.
• Volvo XC60 – strong safety and eco-friendly focus.
• Lexus NX – excellent reliability, slightly less dynamic.

Despite strong competition, the Audi Q5 stands out with its balance of technology, understated design, and all-round capability.

Ownership Experience

Audi ownership extends beyond just the car. Australian buyers enjoy:

• Audi Experience Programs: Exclusive events, track days, and lifestyle experiences.
• Service Network: Strong presence in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with premium customer lounges.
• Resale Value: The Q5 holds value well in the luxury segment, especially diesel and hybrid variants.

Final Verdict – Why the 2025 Audi Q5 Matters

The 2025 Audi Q5 isn’t trying to be the sportiest SUV, nor the flashiest. Instead, it strikes a harmonious balance of everything Australians want from a premium mid-size SUV:

• Stylish yet subtle design.
• Cutting-edge technology that’s intuitive and practical.
• A choice of engines to suit petrol, diesel, and hybrid buyers.
• Everyday comfort and safety for family life.
• Enough capability for light off-road trips or towing.

For Australian buyers seeking an SUV that offers luxury without excess, innovation without complexity, and performance without compromise, the Audi Q5 continues to be one of the smartest choices in 2025.