2018 Audi Q5 Review: First Impressions
CARS.COM — Audi’s second-generation Q5 compact SUV, on display at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, brings updated exterior styling that’s still distinctly Audi and a revamped interior with more technology features. It also suffers a bit in an area where Audi has excelled for years: interior quality.
The redesigned Q5’s styling language isn’t markedly different than the prior model’s. The familiar Audi grille is wider and has more of a three-dimensional appearance thanks to a new chrome surround. There’s a more pronounced sheet-metal crease running the length of the body, additional hood strakes and new angular headlights. Overall, it’s a subtle update to a design that’s aged well.
I was surprised by the interior, however, and the prevalence of lower-quality materials. Audis have been known for exceptional interior quality where even the most insignificant details seem to get quite a bit of attention, but that’s no longer the case. The rubberized surfaces on the dashboard and doors aren’t nice enough for a luxury SUV, and neither is the hard plastic for the door pulls. While it’s true that models on the auto-show floor aren’t always representative from a material- and build-quality standpoint of what will be at your local dealership, it feels like Audi cheapened the Q5’s cabin.
The SUV gets a big screen in place of traditional gauges and the latest version of Audi’s MMI system, which includes a large touchpad and knob controller in front of the gear selector that operate the dashboard screen. Moving the MMI controls ahead of the shifter lets the gear selector serve as an impromptu armrest.
In back, the split-folding rear seat slides forward and backward and reclines. There’s enough room for adults to ride comfortably and large side windows offer good views.
