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2015 Audi Q5 review

Research, Photos, Specs and Expertise

Audi Q5 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Smart looks inside and out
  • Fine performance mixed with decent EPA fuel economy estimates

Cons

  • A little light on standard equipment
  • Suspension is firmer than in many rivals

Mileage (EPA estimate)

18 city, 26 highway, 21 combined

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2015 Audi Q5 remains a compact luxury SUV front-runner

It’s a testament to the Audi Q5 that even after six years it remains very much a benchmark among luxury compact SUVs. Others, such as the BMW X3 and Porsche Macan, drive with a bit more zest than the Audi, but the Q5's broad range of talents and an interior that's unrivaled in fit and finish make it a compelling choice even against newer contenders. A good range of trims and engines helps, with everything from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine to a V6 turbodiesel. A hybrid is in the mix, too, as well as the range-topping high-performance SQ5. All-wheel drive comes standard.

Lower trim levels require option packages to increase the equipment from adequate to ample. The standard trims of Premium, Premium Plus, Prestige, and Hybrid Prestige can all be supplemented by a range of packages, including Comfort, Sport, S line, Driver Assist, and Luxury, which can be a bit confusing. The Premium Plus with the S line is a good starting point, though, and any engine choice has merit. All offer good performance mixed with acceptable EPA fuel economy figures.

All Audi Q5 years

What is new for the 2015 Audi Q5?

  • The Prestige S-Line and TDI Prestige S-Line trims have been discontinued for 2015.
  • Running Boards and SiriusXM Trial Available features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Premium trim now comes with Power Hatch/Deck Lid as standard equipment.

2015 Audi Q5 trims

Curious how Audi Q5 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

2.0T Premium

  • Includes LED taillights, power-adjustable heated exterior side mirrors, power tailgate, leather seating surfaces, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and more.

2.0T Premium Plus:

  • Adds auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with digital compass, stainless steel door sill inlays, panoramic sunroof, driver seat memory, heated front seats, and more.

3.0T Premium Plus:

  • Adds three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, headlight washing system, S line® exterior appearance, keyless entry, panoramic sunroof with power sunshade, and more.

3.0T Prestige:

  • Adds adaptive xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, thermo cup holder, manual rear-side sunshades, MMI navigation with voice control system, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen® sound system, and more.

TDI Premium Plus

  • Adds power-adjustable heated exterior side mirrors with memory, auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with digital compass, stainless steel door sill inlays, panoramic sunroof, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, and more.

TDI Prestige

  • Adds Bluetooth audio streaming, parking system with rearview camera and parking sensors, color driver information system, MMI navigation with voice control system, manual rear-side sunshades, and more.

Hybrid Prestige

  • 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, color driver information system, manual rear-side sunshades, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, thermo cup holder, and more.

5 reasons to buy the 2015 Audi Q5

1. Powertrain options

2015 Audi Q5 Review: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #1 | CarMax

The 2015 Audi Q5 offers a wide range of powertrain options to suit any lifestyle. 2.0T models use a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque and 3.0T Q5s sport a larger 3.0L supercharged V6 with 272 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. If you prefer diesel performance, the 2015 Q5 TDI® features a 240-hp 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel that generates 428 lb-ft of torque. For commuting and long trips, there is also a 245-hp hybrid powertrain with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and a 266-volt battery system that gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined.

All 2015 Audi Q5 models provide robust pulling abilities with an estimated 4,400-lb towing capacity when properly equipped.

2. Agile handling

2015 Audi Q5 Review: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #2 | CarMax

If you need a luxury SUV with sure-footed handling in all types of conditions, the 2015 Q5 features Audi's Quattro® all-wheel drive system, which comes standard across all trims. This advanced system can sense changing surfaces and adjust grip accordingly by distributing power to the wheels that need it most. All trims also include a front five-link suspension system, which ensures a smooth ride over bumpy roads. With four drive modes, including Comfort, Dynamic, Auto, and Individual, the 2015 Q5 provides the ability to adjust the SUV's steering, suspension, throttle response, and transmission shift characteristics to customize your drive.

3. Spacious cabin

2015 Audi Q5 Review: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #3 | CarMax

Whether taking road trips or running errands, the 2015 Audi Q5 delivers on-road comfort with a roomy cabin offering space for five passengers and lots of cargo. With all seats occupied, you'll have 29.1 cu-ft of volume for groceries and luggage, or you can fold the 40/20/40 rear seat to open up 57.3 cubes of trunk capacity for larger items. The adjustable rear bench seat also reclines 10 degrees and moves forward or back (3.9 inches) for additional legroom. Base models of the 2015 Q5 include eight-way power-adjustable front seats for added comfort as well.

4. Many standard features

2015 Audi Q5 Review: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #4 | CarMax

The 2015 Audi Q5 delivers a deluxe in-cabin experience with the inclusion of numerous standard features and a modern design. All trims feature standard leather seating surfaces and three-zone automatic climate control, while the interior is accented with genuine wood inlays for a premium aesthetic. A power liftgate also comes standard on all 2015 Q5 models for added convenience. Premium Plus and higher trims include heated front seats to cut winter's chill and a panoramic moonroof to enjoy sunny days.

5. Premium tech

2015 Audi Q5 Review: Reviews, Photos, and More: Reasons to Buy #5 | CarMax

The 2015 Q5 includes several standard tech features to enhance your daily commute. Anchoring the dash is Audi's MMI® infotainment system with a 6.5-inch display, which features standard Bluetooth® connectivity for hands-free calling. The Audi music interface also boasts iPod® integration to enjoy your music through the 10-speaker audio system with concert-like sound. Opting for the Prestige trim unlocks additional high-tech features, including Bluetooth audio streaming, a rearview camera with parking sensors, and MMI navigation with a voice control system.

Similar vehicles

If you're interested in the 2015 Audi Q5, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.

Image of BMW X3

If you're after a five-passenger SUV with a stout performance, third-generation BMW X3s (2018–present) offer a standard 248-hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 258 lb-ft of torque on sDrive30i models or a more powerful M40i version with a turbocharged 3.0L V6, sport-tuned suspension, and sport exhaust. In 2020, the xDrive30e was added to the X3 line-up and features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a plug-in hybrid system. Base-level 2017–2021 X3 models come standard with:

  • 18-inch wheels

  • Leatherette upholstery

  • 12-speaker audio system (2018 and newer)

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

Based on customer reviews, the 2015 Audi Q5 is a great introductory luxury car. It has just enough features and has decent gas mileage. The car drives smoothly and is powerful. The car also has a good ratio of gas to millage. The car has great technology and handling.
3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Audi Q5 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Audi Q5 19th out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Audi Q5

Audi Q5 features and specs

TDI Prestige 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Diesel Engine
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

3.0L

Horsepower

240

Torque (ft-lbs)

428

Engine type

Turbo Diesel

Fuel capacity

19.8

Wheelbase

110.5"

Overall length

182.6"

Width

74.7"

Height

65.2"

Leg room

F 41"/R 37.4"

Head room

F 39.4"/R 39"

Front tires

P235/55HR19

Rear tires

P235/55HR19

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

440/4400 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2015 Audi Q5 FAQ

More about the 2015 Audi Q5

2015 Audi Q5 Review: Reviews, Photos, and More: Color Options | CarMax

Exterior colors:

  • Brilliant Black

  • Cuvée Silver Metallic

  • Daytona Gray Pearl (S line)

  • Florett Silver Metallic

  • Glacier White Metallic

  • Ibis White

  • Lava Gray Pearl

  • Maya Brown Metallic

  • Monsoon Gray Metallic

  • Moonlight Blue Metallic

  • Mythos Black Metallic

  • Scuba Blue Metallic

  • Teak Brown Metallic

  • Utopia Blue Metallic

  • Volcano Red Metallic

Interior colors

  • Black

  • Black/Alabaster White

  • Black/Cloud Gray

  • Black/Cognac

  • Chestnut Brown

  • Titanium Gray

  • Pistachio Beige

Interior details

The 2015 Audi Q5 interior seats five passengers and includes a sliding and reclining 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat with center pass-through for longer cargo. With all rows in place, the 2015 Q5 provides 29.1 cu-ft of cargo volume. Folding the rear row expands capacity to 57.3 cubes. All 2015 models include leather seating surfaces, and Premium Plus and higher trims feature heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Base models include dark brown walnut wood decorative inlays for visual appeal.

Child seat details

The 2015 Audi Q5's cabin provides seating for five passengers and can fit two car seats in the second row. This includes LATCH car seats, infant car seats, rear-facing convertible car seats, forward-facing convertible car seats, and booster car seats. In some cases, three car seats may fit in the rear row, depending on the width and type of seat being used.

Performance

The 2015 Audi Q5 is available with four powertrains: 220-hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, 272-hp 3.0L supercharged V6, 240-hp 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel, and 245-hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with 266-volt lithium-ion hybrid battery system. All engines pair to an eight-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive.

A 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel-equipped 2015 Q5 has a zero-to-60-mph time of only six seconds (according to the manufacturer when new) and returns an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined.

The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with the 266-volt lithium-ion hybrid battery system also provides fuel-sipping performance with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined.
Estimated towing capacity across all four powertrains is 4,400 lbs. when properly equipped.

Emissions

  • According to EPA estimates, the AWD 2015 Audi Q5's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 337 grams per mile with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and a 266-volt lithium-ion hybrid battery system.

  • According to EPA estimates, the AWD 2015 Audi Q5's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 392 grams per mile with the 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine.

  • According to EPA estimates, the AWD 2015 Audi Q5's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 395 grams per mile with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder.

  • According to EPA estimates, the AWD 2015 Audi Q5's tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions are 429 grams per mile with the 3.0L supercharged V6.

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