The new Audi Q5 luxury SUV feels more refined, more mature, and arguably better than ever
Singapore – My fondest memory of the Audi Q5 dates back to an epic road trip across three European countries in the previous-generation model. Spending nearly two weeks behind the wheel of Audi’s premium SUV was rewarding in itself, as the second-generation Q5 – even in its most modest powertrain configuration – proved capable of handling everything the German Autobahn and Europe’s diverse B-roads could throw at it.
Now in its third generation, the Audi Q5 feels as though it has grown up even further.
Beginning with models such as the Audi A5 and Q4 e-tron, Audi has moved away from the sharp-edged precision that once defined its design language in favour of softer, more sculpted surfaces. While the new look may take some time to grow on you, it undoubtedly lends the Q5 a more premium and sophisticated presence.
One constant throughout Audi’s design evolution is its measured approach to styling. Unlike some rivals, Audi rarely reinvents the wheel from one generation to the next. The result is a sense of timelessness and continuity that allows its cars to age gracefully.
A handsome and restrained interior
The old cliché that Audi builds excellent interiors remains true here.
The new Audi Q5’s cabin incorporates more gloss-black surfaces than before, while brushed aluminium trim has been dialled back slightly. Dominating the dashboard is a curved display panel that integrates an 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit for the driver alongside a 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen.
First introduced in the Audi A5, the latest-generation MMI system represents a significant leap forward in technology compared with its predecessor. As with many modern vehicles, physical buttons have been reduced in number, with climate controls now housed within the touchscreen interface. Fortunately, the system remains intuitive and easy to navigate, so little usability is sacrificed.
Audi has also done an admirable job of keeping the cabin tidy. Controls for the wing mirrors, headlights, seat memory functions and child locks are neatly grouped on the driver’s door panel. It is one of Audi’s more thoughtful recent innovations. Elsewhere, the remaining physical buttons continue to deliver the reassuring tactile click that Audi owners have come to expect.
My only notable gripe concerns the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel spokes, which can occasionally be activated unintentionally while cornering.
Like its predecessor, the Q5 offers generous interior space. Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, while the 520-litre boot easily accommodates a week’s groceries or a golf bag.
For comparison, the BMW X3 offers 570 litres of luggage capacity, the Mercedes-Benz GLC provides 620 litres, the Lexus NX matches the Audi at 520 litres, while the Volvo XC60 trails slightly with 483 litres.
A beautifully refined drive
Power comes from the group’s familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing a combined system output of 201hp and 340Nm.
The headline feature, however, is Audi’s new 48V MHEV Plus mild-hybrid system.
Previous facelifted versions of the Q5 sold in Singapore utilised a simpler 12V mild-hybrid setup. While capable of enabling fuel-saving coasting functions, it could not actively assist the engine. The new MHEV Plus system is considerably more sophisticated.
In addition to the belt starter generator (BSG), Audi has added a powertrain generator (PTG), connected to the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission via a dog clutch. This allows the Q5 to deliver up to 18kW (24hp) and approximately 230Nm of electric assistance when pulling away from traffic lights or manoeuvring at lower speeds.
One particularly welcome advantage of the new 48V architecture is that the air-conditioning compressor continues operating even when the engine shuts down. In Singapore’s tropical climate, that is a genuinely useful improvement.
Pulling away from rest, the Q5 initially relies on its electric assistance before seamlessly transitioning to petrol power. The overall driving experience is remarkably smooth, with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission delivering near-imperceptible gear changes as speed builds.
Unlike the mild-hybrid system in the BMW X3, which introduces a degree of regenerative braking the moment the driver lifts off the accelerator, the Audi adopts a more natural approach. It allows the vehicle to coast freely while the engine shuts down, creating a genuinely effortless driving experience. Personal preference will ultimately dictate which approach is better, but Audi’s system suits my driving style perfectly.
As the first Audi SUV built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, the Q5 also benefits from noticeably improved dynamics. The compact executive SUV feels more planted through corners, even without an adaptive suspension.
While the BMW X3 may still offer sharper turn-in and greater outright athleticism, the Audi counters with superior overall ride and handling balance. It delivers the kind of effortless composure that makes long-distance touring an absolute pleasure.
Another Autobahn journey suddenly seems very appealing.
Verdict: Par excellence? Quite possibly.
The new Audi Q5 does far more than simply tick the right boxes.
In an era where internal-combustion engines and electrification increasingly overlap, the Q5 feels exceptionally well engineered. It strikes an impressive balance between confident road holding and long-distance comfort, while delivering the refinement, maturity and sophistication expected of a modern premium SUV.
Quietly confident and beautifully resolved, the latest Audi Q5 feels like a vehicle that has truly come of age.
Text & Photos: Clifford Chow
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Drives beautifully | Touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel get in the way |
| Spacious cabin and tech | Interior can be a fingerprint magnet |
| MHEV Plus system is their best yet |
2026 Audi Q5 Mild Hybrid 2.0 S line TFSI quattro
| Drivetrain | Petrol-electric mild hybrid |
| Layout | 1,984cc, in-line 4 |
| Motor power / torque | 201hp / 340Nm |
| Transmission | 7-Speed S tronic |
| Efficiency | 12.8km/l |
| Fuel Capacity | 65 Litres |
| 0-100km/h | 8.6 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 2226km/h |
| VES Band | C1 |
| Dealer | Audi Singapore |
| Price | S$393,999 without COE, with VES |
| Verdict | More grown-up, more refined. Superb MHEV tech |
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