• 2013 Audi Q5

• 2012 Audi Q5
• Used Audi Q5
• Repairs Audi Q5

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Audi Q5 U.S. News Best Cars 8.5
Critics' Rating:	8.9
Performance:	8.3
Interior:	8.5
Safety:	9.8
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Awards

• 2013 Best Luxury Compact SUV for Families

Notable for 2013

• Optional supercharged V6
• Updated interior and exterior styling
• Optional sport seats
• Audi Connect wireless Internet access

Pros & Cons

• Luxurious, high-quality interior
• Fun driving dynamics
• Standard all-wheel drive

• Infotainment system can be confusing
• Less cargo space than some rivals

Research Other Years

• 2012 Audi Q5
• 2011 Audi Q5
• 2010 Audi Q5
• 2009 Audi Q5

The 2013 Audi Q5 ranks 3 out of 10 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 39 published reviews and test drives of the Audi Q5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Test drivers say that exceptional handling and an opulent, comfortable interior make the 2013 Audi Q5 stand out among luxury compact SUVs.

The base Audi Q5 has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and while one reviewer says that the Q5 could use a little more power on steep hills, most test drivers agree that it accelerates quickly enough to keep most drivers happy. A more powerful supercharged V6 engine is optional, and reviewers say that it offers plenty of power for any situation. The EPA reports that the 2013 Q5 gets up to 20/28 mpg city/highway, which is better than SUVs like the Volvo XC60. While a few critics say that the Q5 rides firmly, most are pleased with its balanced handling and precise steering. One reviewer also says that the Q5’s tight turning radius makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

The Audi Q5 is the 2013 Best Luxury Compact SUV for Families because it has the best combination of quality, size and family-friendly features in its class.

The Q5’s interior wins praise from reviewers, who appreciate its stylish design and high-quality materials. One test driver notes that the Q5’s switchgear and wood trim would look right at home in a private jet, while others note that exceptional build quality gives the cabin a solid feel. The front seats are generally considered spacious and comfortable, and critics also write that the second row offers adult-friendly space. Most reviewers say that the Q5 has a useful amount of cargo space. The Q5 comes standard with tri-zone climate control and a 10-speaker stereo with satellite radio. Options and features available on higher trims include a Bang & Olufsen sound system, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, push-button start, a rearview camera with parking sensors, a blind-spot monitoring system and navigation.

• "The facelifted Q5 is entering one of the most hotly contested segments of the market. However, it has a lot going for it, including build quality, which continues to outshine the SUV competition on a number of fronts." -- AutoWeek 
• "Though rivals have their attractions, the Q5 is a class standout for refinement and cargo/passenger versatility. Classy cabin appointments, sporty road manners, and Audi's rising brand status are among other strong assets." -- Consumer Guide 
• "Just as it did when it was first introduced, this revamped Q5 is apt to attract buyers who like its usable size, sharply tailored interior and clean, if forgettable, design." -- Edmunds 
• "The Q5 has effortlessly blended elegant looks, premium interiors and good power since its introduction in 2009. The Q5's appeal continues to strengthen with new powerplants, a host of high-tech features, and strong resale value." -- Kelley Blue Book 

Other SUVs to Consider

Reviewers aren’t as impressed with the Infiniti EX37’s passenger and cargo space, but the EX37 comes with more standard features. Like the Q5, the EX37 impresses test drivers with its high-quality interior, and most critics love the EX37’s powerful V6 engine and agile handling.

The Range Rover Evoque costs a bit more than the Q5, but it also comes with more standard features. In addition, reviewers praise the Evoque for its powerful turbocharged engine and exceptional handling.

Compare the Q5, EX37 and Evoque »

Details: 2013 Audi Q5

The 2013 Audi Q5 seats five and has standard all-wheel drive. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission are standard. The Q5 is available in three trims: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Each trim adds to the Q5’s list of interior features. The Audi Q5 Hybrid is reviewed separately. The Q5 gets some interior and exterior styling updates for 2013, as well as optional sport seats and an updated navigation system that can provide wireless Internet access. Additionally, a more powerful, supercharged V6 engine is available on higher trims, which replaces the V6 found in the 2012 model. Aside from these updates, the Q5 is basically unchanged for 2013. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2009 through 2013.

See the full 2013 Audi Q5 specs »