The 2021 Audi Q5 lasts around 200,000 miles, with some average battery and transmission issues reported. At $26,375 to $45,900, it’s a great value for a luxury SUV with some of the latest technology features.
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a good year from the Audi Q5 since it offers a lot of luxury paired with technology. Owner reviews praise the smooth suspension, along with the reasonable ownership costs as it ages.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are luxurious for a small SUV, the seats are supportive on long trips, but cargo space is smaller than the competition.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2021 Q5. Models from 2018 have some known electrical issues, while 2019–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is reasonable for a small SUV, but we recommend upgrading to the SQ5 if you want a more powerful choice.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2021 Q5 is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with Audi’s Pre Sense City and a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 25 MPG, giving 462 miles of range from the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are average, at $200 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Audi Q5 costs less than some other small luxury SUVs on the market, with average depreciation rates, making it a good value.
Positive Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Audi Q5?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Audi Q5 brings a better ride and a lot of high-tech features to the popular small SUV, with good owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Audi Q5 at 7.5/10, enjoying the standard all-wheel drive system, but doesn’t like the distracting infotainment system.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Q5 a 4.2/5, praising the impressive technology, but owners like that some of the safety features are only available as options.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Audi Q5 Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Audi Q5 include dead batteries, excessive noise from the transmission, along with some rapid brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to other small luxury SUVs on the market, leading to average repair costs as the Q5 ages.
Dead batteries are the most widespread complaint from 2021 Q5 owners, showing up within the first 5,000 miles. There are a lot of electrical accessories in the Q5, and in some cases they stay on after the engine has been turned off. Diagnosing the source of the parasitic battery draw costs around $150, while fixing it costs about $150.
Excessive noise from the transmission has also been reported by some Q5 owners at roughly 10,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by loose CV joints, which connect to the transmission. Fixing the issue costs around $550, depending on local labor rates.
Rapid brake wear is another problem mentioned by some owners at 15,000 miles. The front brake pads in particular, tend to wear out quickly, and have to be replaced. Changing out the brake pads costs around $175, while rotors are an additional $400 if they are worn down by metal-on-metal contact.
There are six recalls on the 2021 Audi Q5, which is a bit worse than some competitors. The most serious recalls all covered the rear axle. Audi will replace the axle assembly on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the rearview display, seat belts, and the main computer.
How Long Will the 2021 Audi Q5 Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Audi Q5 can last around 200,000 miles, which is a bit shorter than the long-lasting Lexus NX. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than some other SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $918 per year.
As a used 2021 Audi Q5 reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the ignition coil for $150, a crankshaft position sensor costing $400, along with the heater hose, which costs $525.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is very good and includes a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay. Optional upgrades include a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Standard safety technology is great and features:
- Rearview camera
- Audi Pre Sense City
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane departure warning
- Rear cross traffic alert
Optional driver assistance features include:
- Head-up display
- Traffic-jam assist
- Surround-view parking camera system
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
Is the 2021 Audi Q5 a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Audi Q5 is a good value if you’re in the market for a small luxury SUV with a lot of technology. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $26,375 to $45,900, making it less than a Mercedes GLC or Porsche Macan. When new, the price range was $43,300 to $56,100. Depreciation is similar to other small luxury SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Audi Q5?
There are three main models of the 2021 Audi Q5 offered, from the entry-level Premium, through the more luxurious Prestige. All models come standard with all-wheel drive.
Premium is the entry-level model with:
- 1-inch touch screen.
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Wireless device charging.
- 10-speaker stereo and HD Radio.
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Two USB ports.
- Leather upholstery.
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats.
- Front and rear parking sensors.
- Forward collision warning.
- Forward automatic emergency braking.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Rear cross-traffic alert.
- Lane departure warning.
- Rearview camera.
- Power liftgate.
- Tri-zone automatic climate control.
- Optional: Proximity keyless entry, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, satellite radio, 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo.
Premium Plus is a step up, adding:
- 3-inch digital instrument cluster (Audi Virtual Cockpit).
- Satellite radio.
- Proximity keyless entry.
- Heated steering wheel.
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Traffic jam assist.
- Lane keep assist.
- Surround-view parking camera system.
- Panoramic sunroof.
- Optional navigation.
- Optional sport front seats with ventilation.
Prestige is the flagship model, which has:
- Bang & Olufsen stereo.
- Navigation system.
- Matrix-design headlights.
- Head-up display.
- Optional ventilated front seats.
What Engines Come In the Audi Q5?
The engine found in the 2021 Q5 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produces 261 horsepower. This engine is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and achieves a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.7 seconds, offering a balance of efficiency and performance.
What Colors Does the Audi Q5 Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Audi Q5?
The 2021 Audi Q5 excels in delivering a high level of comfort, making it a top choice for those seeking a luxury SUV experience. Inside, passengers are greeted with a cabin that blends elegant design with ergonomic excellence. The seats, upholstered in premium materials, offer ample support and cushioning, providing comfort even during long drives. Both the front and rear seats provide generous legroom and headroom, accommodating passengers of all sizes. The front seats come with power adjustments and optional heating and ventilation, allowing for personalized comfort settings. Additionally, the Q5’s cabin is well insulated, providing a quiet and serene environment that shields occupants from road and wind noise.
Ride quality in the 2021 Q5 is equally impressive, thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. Whether navigating city streets or cruising on highways, the SUV handles bumps and imperfections with ease, delivering a smooth and stable ride. The vehicle’s dynamic steering and quattro all-wheel drive system contribute to a confident driving experience, adapting to different road conditions and enhancing passenger comfort. The Q5 also offers various driving modes, allowing the driver to tailor the vehicle’s performance to their preference, whether prioritizing fuel efficiency, sportiness, or a more relaxed cruise.
In conclusion, the 2021 Audi Q5 stands out for its exceptional comfort, both in terms of its luxurious interior and its refined driving dynamics. The attention to detail in the cabin’s design and the advanced technology incorporated for comfort and convenience make it a pleasure to travel in. Coupled with its smooth and responsive handling, the Q5 provides a driving experience that is both enjoyable and relaxing, affirming its status as a leading choice in the luxury SUV segment.
How Much Storage Space Does the Audi Q5 Have?
The 2021 Audi Q5 boasts a practical and spacious cargo area, well-suited for various storage needs. It offers 25.8 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats, providing ample space for daily necessities such as groceries, gym bags, and small luggage. When the rear seats are folded down, this space expands significantly to 54 cubic feet, accommodating larger items. For instance, this expanded space can easily hold bulkier objects like a couple of full-sized suitcases, a set of golf clubs, or camping gear for a weekend getaway. The flat loading floor also makes it easy to slide items in and out, adding to the convenience.
In addition to the primary cargo area, the 2021 Q5 offers thoughtful interior storage solutions that enhance its practicality. The cabin features several small but useful storage spaces, such as door pockets, a glove compartment, and a center console compartment. These spaces are perfect for storing smaller items like smartphones, wallets, and water bottles, keeping them within easy reach yet out of the way. Furthermore, the Q5 includes cup holders and a hidden storage compartment under the cargo floor, ideal for stashing valuables or emergency items.
Overall, the 2021 Audi Q5 strikes a balance between luxury and functionality with its well-designed storage spaces. Whether it’s for everyday use or longer trips, the Q5 caters to a range of storage needs, making sure that both passengers and their belongings are accommodated comfortably. The combination of its spacious cargo area and smart interior storage options makes it a versatile choice for those seeking both luxury and practicality in their vehicle.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The second generation of the Audi Q5 was introduced for the 2018 model year.
2015: Xenon headlights are standard on all models, LED daytime running lights added, LED tail lights available, and a power liftgate.
2016: Panoramic sunroof is now standard on all models, the technology package also has a Bang & Olufsen stereo system.
2017: Adaptive cruise control is now available on the 3.0T Prestige model, and 19-inch wheels are offered on the 2.0T Premium Plus.
2018: Fully redesigned for the second generation with a more powerful engine, new technology features, and an updated exterior.
2019: New 7-inch driver information display, more standard features, and an optional wireless phone charging pad.
2020: Updated standard features, and a plug-in hybrid model is now offered.
2021: Small styling changes, updated front bumper, bigger touchscreen, and a stronger four-cylinder engine.
How Does the Audi Q5 Compare to the Competition?
The 2021 Audi Q5 is a very nice small luxury SUV, offering an upscale interior and a great all-wheel drive system which works in the snow and dirt.
The BMW X3 is another small luxury SUV, which costs about $1,500 more. Performance is better in the BMW X3, while the Audi Q5 offers more standard technology. We recommend the BMW X3 since it’s more fun to drive, but both are worth testing out to see which you prefer.
The Lexus RX is a slightly larger luxury SUV, which is available for roughly $3,000 more. Long-term ownership costs are lower on the Lexus RX, while the Audi Q5 offers a more upscale cabin. We recommend the Lexus RX since it’s one of the longest-lasting SUVs on the market.
