The Audi Q5 started as a smaller luxury crossover SUV that fits in smaller garages and budgets. Today, the compact crossover is a highly popular mid-level compact crossover. With three generations and ongoing production, there are plenty of model years to choose from. But which model year is the top Audi Q5 in history?
In chronological order, here are the top Audi Q5 models:
The model’s first iteration, the 2009 Audi Q5 is essentially a smaller, sleeker version of the Audi Q7. It keeps the bigger crossover SUV’s luxurious fittings while driving like a car and consuming less fuel.
Several features we now take for granted in compact crossover SUVs first appeared on the 2009 Audi Q5.
An all-wheel-drive system with a 6-speed transmission ensures good traction on most road surfaces, and an electronic stability control helps keep the driver in control. The 2009 Q5 also has a power liftgate for easier access to its rear cargo compartment and a lovely panoramic sunroof to brighten the interior.
Befitting its luxurious origins, the 2009 Audi Q5 pampers its occupants with features like genuine wood trim. Its tri-zone automatic climate control system ensures everyone feels comfortable where they sit.
The 2009 Audi Q5 is considered a reliable model year. It has relatively few complaints and recalls. Known problems involve airbags, seat belts, and excessive use of engine oil. Its age ensures low resale prices, but used vehicles require thorough vetting to identify problems.
RL GNZLZ | Wikimedia CommonsWhy fix what isn’t broken? In many ways, the 2010 Audi Q5 is a repeat of the Q9. Its main advantage over the 2009 Audi Q5 is being newer by one year. All things being equal, more recent vehicles will usually be in better shape than older ones.
Early model years of the Audi Q5 have a reputation for using too much engine oil. The issue rears its ugly head in the 2010 Audi Q5, so keep that drawback in mind.
If you’re buying a used or slightly used Audi Q5s and have a choice between the two model years, try to get the 2010 Q5.
The 2013 Audi Q5 became the brand’s most popular model in its debut year.
It introduced two new engine options: A smaller 2.0L inline-4 engine that achieved better fuel efficiency while retaining plenty of horsepower and a hybrid system that added electric motors and a battery. The transmission for all three powertrains was an eight-speed type.
Reliability also saw a big increase with the 2013 Audi Q5. It had fewer complaints, and what recalls it did get were relatively minor.
The biggest problem was the higher-than-normal use of engine oil, an issue shared with other model years and one that resulted in a class-action lawsuit. Aside from the high oil consumption, the 2013 Q5 is a good choice.
Audi invested much effort into correcting the flaws of its Q5 model for 2017. Most importantly, the manufacturer fixed the Audi Q5’s extreme oil consumption, arguably the most infamous problem of the model.
The 2017 Audi Q5 still has issues, including a blocked or short-circuited water pump. However, it received much fewer customer complaints, indicating an overall improvement in reliability.
Now we get into the 2nd generation of the Audi Q5. The 2018 Audi Q5 is a long-awaited redesign with a new chassis that frees up cabin space and reduces the bumpiness of the ride.
It only offers a single engine, but it’s a turbocharged version of the inline-4 engine that powers the 2.0T trim in earlier model years.
Like its immediate predecessor, the 2018 Audi Q5 handles well, enjoys plenty of power, and is considered safe. It’s also a relatively reliable model year, and while it has more than 120 complaints, these are mainly minor concerns.
Last but not least is the 2019 Audi Q5. It maintains the performance and plush interior of the preceding model years.
The 2019 Audi Q5 is the strongest contender for the title of “the most reliable Audi Q5 model year.” It earned higher reliability, safety, and security ratings than the decently-rated 2018 Audi Q5.
Since it’s the newest of the model years covered in this article, the 2019 Audi Q5 also has the highest price tag. However, it’s also going to hold its value longer.
Hands down, it’s the 2019 Audi Q5. It enjoys the benefits of the modern 2nd generation, has few known problems of the 1st generation, and doesn’t cost as much as newer model years.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.