Audi Q5 S line2.0 TFSI quattro
The new Audi Q5 S line 2.0 TFSI quattro. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Introduction
The Audi Q5 has long been one of the brand's best-sellers, and this latest generation marks a significant step forward. It is the first Audi SUV to sit on the new PPC architecture, and it arrives with a fresh face, a far more digital cabin and a 2.0-litre TFSI engine now supported by 48V mild-hybrid technology.
We spent time with the S line 2.0 TFSI quattro to find out whether the new Q5 still delivers the polished, premium all-rounder experience that buyers expect from the badge, and where it still has room to grow.
The new Q5 brings a sharper design and a far more digital cabin. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Exterior Design
The front end is dominated by a high-level Singleframe grille, flanked by large side air inlets that give the Q5 a wider, more muscular stance. The S line package adds a sportier edge without tipping into flashiness.
The real party trick, though, is the lighting. The customisable LED signature headlights let you choose the daytime light pattern that suits you. It is a small feature, but one we genuinely loved. It adds a layer of personalisation that few rivals can match.
The high-level Singleframe grille up close, alongside the S line wheels. Photo: Cars&TechSG
At the back, an LED light strip stretches across the entire width of the tailgate, linking the second-generation digital OLED rear lights. It gives the Q5 a distinctive and unmistakably modern signature, especially after dark.
Audi's lighting signature and tailgate detailing give the Q5 a distinctive look. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Interior Review
Step inside and the cabin delivers a properly premium feel. The main touchpoints are well finished and the layout feels modern and driver-focused. That said, some of the plastics in the lower areas of the cabin could be better built for a car at this price point.
The customisable LED ambient lighting that runs across the dashboard is definitely a plus, setting a refined mood at night. Comfort is another strength, and the bolstered headrests are comfortable and supportive on longer drives.
A premium, driver-focused dashboard and well-laid-out door controls. Photo: Cars&TechSG
The driver gets an 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit, which flows into a 14.5-inch touchscreen as part of the curved panorama display. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, with logical menus and quick reactions to inputs.
A wireless charging pad keeps your phone topped up, and the sound system is a highlight. It is full, punchy and noticeably bassy, which should please those who like their music with some weight behind it.
The steering wheel and the 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit ahead of the driver. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Legroom and headroom are good, and adults should be comfortable in the second row for daily commutes or longer trips. Rear passengers also get sunshades for the side windows, a thoughtful touch under the Singapore sun.
Good legroom and headroom, plus sunshades for rear passengers. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Boot Capacity & Practicality
With 520 litres of boot space, the Q5 handles grocery runs, airport trips and weekend getaways across the Causeway without fuss. It is a practical, well-shaped space that suits family duties well.
520 litres of boot space for everyday family duties. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Driving Experience
Under the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre TFSI engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, producing 204hp and 340Nm of torque. Power goes to all four wheels through quattro, and the century sprint is dispatched in 7.2 seconds.
Pulling away from a stop, there is a bit of lag before the Q5 gets going, which is noticeable at traffic lights. Once moving, the powertrain settles into a smooth stride. Switch into Dynamic mode and you can feel the system perking up a little, with sharper responses that make the Q5 feel more eager.
Dynamic mode wakes the Q5 up a little. Photo: Cars&TechSG
Cornering is confident, and body roll is almost well managed for an SUV of this size, with quattro providing plenty of grip. Ride comfort is generally good, but the Q5 can feel a bit bouncy over harder humps. That is worth noting given how many of them line our estates and multi-storey car parks.
Audi claims 14.3km/L on paper. The 48V mild-hybrid system helps smooth out stop-start driving and should help in Singapore's urban traffic, though real-world figures will depend on how often you dip into Dynamic mode.
- Customisable LED signature headlights and digital OLED rear lights
- Premium cabin with customisable ambient lighting
- Responsive 14.5-inch touchscreen and 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit
- Good legroom and headroom, comfortable bolstered headrests
- Punchy, bassy sound system
- Dynamic mode sharpens the drive; body roll well controlled
- Wireless charging, rear sunshades and a 520L boot
- Slight lag when accelerating from a stop
- Radio memory resets every time the car restarts
- System shuts down after about 10 minutes while waiting
- Park Assist did not work well in our test
- A bit bouncy over hard humps
- Some cabin plastics could be better built
The new Audi Q5 S line 2.0 TFSI quattro moves the nameplate firmly into the digital age. Its customisable lighting, curved panorama display and premium, roomy cabin give it a strong sense of occasion, while quattro and well-controlled body roll keep it composed on the road.
It is not flawless. The hesitation off the line, a slightly bouncy ride over hard humps and a few software quirks (the radio reset, the 10-minute shutdown and an underwhelming Park Assist) take some of the shine off. Most of these feel fixable with updates, though, rather than fundamental flaws.
For buyers who want a stylish, well-equipped premium SUV with plenty of technology and quattro confidence, the new Q5 remains one of the most well-rounded choices in its class.
Specifications are manufacturer figures and may vary by market and equipment. Please check with Audi Singapore for the latest local specifications and pricing.