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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Audi Q5

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Overview

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2013 Audi Q5 Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.8

The 2013 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury SUV that offers an impressive balance of comfort, performance, style and fuel economy. While just four years old, this 5-passenger SUV has quickly become Audi's number-2 seller behind the A4. A new – albeit pricey – hybrid variant arrives for 2013 in addition to a more powerful V6 engine or the potent-yet-efficient turbocharged 4-cylinder found in base models. The Q5 stands out from rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLK, Lexus RX, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti EX and Acura RDX with its standard all-wheel drive and laudable towing capacity of up to 4,400 pounds. The 2013 Q5 has a starting price under $37,000, but costs escalate quickly with options. The Q5's resale value is among the best in class.

You'll Like This Car If...

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.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you want an SUV that emphasizes dynamic handling and swift acceleration, look to the BMW X3. Those seeking the greatest fuel economy might want to look to the Lexus RX Hybrid or the forthcoming Mercedes-Benz GLK250 diesel (a Q5 diesel is reportedly still in the works for the U.S.). For the value-conscious, the Acura RDX is a better option.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.8
Driving Dynamics

8.1
Comfort & Convenience

7.3
Design: Interior & Exterior

8.3
Value

6.5
Safety

N/A

How It Ranks

#3

out of 27

MPG

#25

out of 27

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

8.7 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2013

In addition to some front- and rear-end design tweaks, the big news for the 2013 Audi Q5 is a new supercharged V6 engine that replaces the naturally aspirated one, and a hybrid powertrain that pairs a turbocharged 4-cylinder with a lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor.

Driving the Q5

Driving Impressions If the BMW X3 is about speed and the Lexus RX favors comfort, the Audi Q5 splits the difference. This automotive Goldilocks is comfortable and quick, with the latter characteristic...

helped by the new supercharged V6 engine under the hood. If you want to fine-tune your driving experience, say, for more agility and speed or overall comfort, the 2013 Q5's suspension and engine response can be modified with the touch of a button on V6 models with the Audi drive-select feature. The comfortable driver's seat offers a commanding view. The Q5 is nimble in corners, but steering is a bit heavy at low speeds. The Audi Q5 hybrid offers a smooth transition between its electric motor and gasoline engine, but with mileage estimates of 24 mpg city/30 highway, it's not that much more miserly than 4-cylinder Q5 models, which begin about $15,000 less than the admittedly loaded hybrid version.

Favorite Features

AUDI CONNECT
This is the name for Audi's sophisticated in-cabin tech system that seems straight out of the future. Offering everything from Google maps with real-time news and traffic info to a Wi-Fi hot spot for up to eight devices, this system will indeed keep you and your passengers connected.

4 CYLINDERS, 8 SPEEDS
Audi's 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder is a splendid engine thanks to its blend of power and fuel economy. Connected to the buttery-smooth 8-speed automatic transmission found in the Q5, this powerplant shines even more.

2013 Audi Q5 Details

2013 Audi Q5 Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

The 2013 Audi Q5's interior is just as elegant as the SUV's outer skin. In fact, one might say the cabin dazzles even more with its emphasis on technology and, by default, bevy of buttons. Unlike some competitors, leather is standard even on base models, and tri-zone climate control will keep occupants front and back at the proper temperature. The shift lever and its surrounding cadre of buttons, knobs and dials would look at home in a private jet, while the optional wood grain lends a more classic feel. The Q5's roomy rear seats fold in a flexible 40/20/40 arrangement.

Exterior

Even in a sea of luxury SUVs, the 2013 Audi Q5 stands out with its brilliant looks. From its massive, trapezoidal grille to its well-proportioned rear with twin tailpipes, the Audi is a picture of form and function. LED lights abound, from the optional daytime running lights up front to the standard LEDs in the taillights and those in the side-mirror-mounted turn signals. At 7.9 inches, even the Q5's ground clearance is a good balance between road-going sedan and mountain-climbing beast, which allows the Q5 to tackle both twisty pavement and snow- or dirt-covered roads.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In Q5-speak, a base model is designated "Premium." When it comes to features, that moniker mostly fits the bill, as even that version comes with leather seating, 18-inch 5-spoke wheels, 3-zone automatic climate control, AM/FM/CD player with 10 speakers, and hill-descent control. Surprisingly, you'll still have to pay extra for Bluetooth on base models. Stepping up to Premium Plus and Prestige trims brings heated front seats, iPod integration, auto-dimming rearview mirror, panoramic sunroof, xenon headlights, power tailgate, and a memory setting on the driver's seat.

Optional Equipment

For those willing to spend the money, a 2013 Q5 can become a seriously high-end vehicle. Among the extras found as options or incorporated within trim levels are a Nappa leather-clad instrument panel, 14-speaker/505-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system, rear-seat entertainment package, adaptive cruise control, and high-tech systems with navigation, rearview camera and a 3G network that turns the Q5 into a rolling Wi-Fi hot spot. One particularly ingenuous feature is an available thermo cup holder that can warm or cool drinks so your latte stays hot and your soda remains cold.

Under the Hood

Three engine options are available in the 2013 Audi Q5. A 211-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder is standard on lower trims. For those wanting the most power, there is a 272-horsepower supercharged V6. The most fuel-efficient Audi Q5 is the hybrid, which pairs a turbo 4-cylinder with a battery pack and electric motor to make a total of 245 horsepower and attain up to 30 mpg. All 2013 Q5 models are linked to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. All Q5 models are all-wheel drive and are rated to tow up to 4,400 pounds. All three powerplants require premium fuel.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
211 horsepower @ 4,300 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28 mpg

3.0-liter supercharged V6
272 horsepower @ 4,780 rpm
295 lb-ft of torque @ 2,150 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: NA

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 plus electric motor/generator
245 horsepower (combined)
354 lb-ft of torque (combined)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/30 mpg

Pricing Notes

The 2013 Audi Q5 2.0T Premium has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $36,795. Prices rise quickly here, beginning with the exterior paint. Opt for any color except black or white, and it's considered a $475 option. Stepping up to a top-line Q5 V6 model begins at over $52,000, as does the Q5 hybrid. Optioning up either can move you beyond the $58,000 mark. In terms of competitors, the Audi Q5's base price is in line with the Infiniti EX. It is more than the base price of an Acura RDX and Volvo XC60, and less than the Lexus RX, Mercedes-Benz GLK and BMW X3. Be sure to check the Fair Purchase Price on kbb.com to see what buyers in your area are actually paying for the 2013 Audi Q5. Resale value is a strong point for the Q5, with the Audi being among the best in its class.

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2013 Audi Q5 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.7

Out of 10

Based on 45 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.5/10

Quality

8.9/10
Reliability

8.8/10

Performance

9.0/10
Comfort

8.9/10

Styling

9.2/10

Not worth the cost

By shalabih on Monday, May 27, 2013

I owned and sold this car
Reason: Too many issues - My approximate mileage is 25,400

10 5.0

overall rating 5 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 5/10
Value: 5/10
Reliability: 2/10
Quality: 2/10
Performance: 3/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 1/10

Pros: "beautiful exterior and interior."

Cons: "drove more rentals and loaners than this car"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I owned my Audi for a year and some change, it was constantly in the shop. It has a great exterior and gorgeous interior, however my moon roof randomly stopped working, and when it did work it would always squeak when it did work. Mind you I bought this car new. The shift between gears was rough. The tech options were more advance on other cars that were of equal or less value. Lastly, it was not very spacious in the back row, the trunk room was fantastic though."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Unbelievable suv. Will be Audi for life!

By Q (OH) on Saturday, May 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,420

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "large, comfortable interior A blast to drive"

Cons: "a little bit of a blind spot"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had my Q5 for two months. It is THE most comfortable car that I have ever been in. I am 6ft. 4, and I have plenty of room. In the 2 months that I have owned my car, I have gotten around 22 mpg in mostly city driving. I got the premium plus package, and it is worth every penny. All in all, if I had to do it again, I'd do it in a second!"

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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Best 5 passenger SUV for the bucks

By Delta man (FL) on Tuesday, April 30, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 23,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Easy to drive. Good gas mileage. Quiet."

Cons: "Dash takes a while to figure out."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I recommend the V6, plenty of power, very smooth driving rivaling my wife's 5 series BMW. Best of my Acura, Mercedes, and Lexus SUV's I've owned in the past. Highly recommend this vehicle; worth a look !"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Love this car

By arrived (MN) on Friday, March 15, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 51,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Panoramic sunroof!!"

Cons: "The center counsel is a bit on the small side."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have never owned an Audi before and I am a believer. The smoothness of acceleration and the way it corners makes me feel so in control. The panoramic sunroof is a must from now on. I feel like I am outside without all the wind. I love the design of the cruise control. Its a one button push and you can accelerate and decelerate as needed without touching the pedals. I feel very safe, quick, like I can fit into any parking spot, but still have room for packages and 5 passengers. This car is just good looking."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Great Luxury SUV

By Big D (HI) on Thursday, February 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owned this car just over 2 months now. I purchased a base model, with only the lighting package and convenience package as upgrades. I was able to keep the price under 40K, so that was good since I'm not a big fan for some of the pricey extras. The handling of the vehicle is great, and the ride is very smooth. It's my first Audi, and I am impressed with it. Checked out BMW, Lexus, Infinity, and Acura, and they just couldn't offer the same vehicle for the price. The interior room is very comfortable, and the rear seats have plenty of space as well. If you've got the bucks to go for the gusto, the supercharged V6 is a nice upgrade, along with sportier wheels and suspension, but the 2.0T has plenty of power for me. I'm very happy with the vehicle and would definitely recommend it to others."

8 people out of 8 found this review helpful

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Poor design quality of rear seats

By audiq52013 (NY) on Thursday, February 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,000

10 4.0

overall rating 4 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 4/10
Value: 5/10
Reliability: Not Rated
Quality: Not Rated
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 2/10
Comfort: 4/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I bought this new audi q5 2T premium plus 2013 model a few months ago. Drive is pretty harsh, you feel all the small bumps, which I can understand as the suspension is tuned to be sporty. However, with that comes the relentless vibration of the rear seats, once you hear it, it is hard to ignore. It comes on the slightest of bumps even at low speeds, and is just continuous on a bumpy highway. Took it to the dealer, no solution, they drove me around in other cars saying it happens in every Q5. Very disappointed."

10 people out of 13 found this review helpful

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See all 45 reviews