2018 Audi Q5 Buyer's Guide: Second-Gen Luxury Crossover

The Luxury Crossover Done Right

The 2018 Audi Q5 represents the second year of a complete redesign that addressed every criticism of the previous generation. Built on VW Group's MLB Evo platform shared with Porsche Macan, the Q5 delivers premium driving dynamics, exceptional interior quality, and technology that still impresses years after introduction.

Unlike some German competitors that prioritize sportiness over comfort, the Q5 balances both expertly. Its quiet, refined, and comfortable enough for daily commuting while remaining engaging when roads get interesting. The quattro AWD system provides genuine winter capability that rear-biased competitors cant match.

Trim Level Breakdown

Premium: Missing Key Features

The base Premium includes leather, panoramic sunroof, Apple CarPlay, and basic safety features. What it lacks: Virtual Cockpit, premium audio, parking sensors, and the technology that makes Q5 special. The analog gauge cluster feels dated. Skip Premium unless price difference is dramatic.

Premium Plus: Our Recommendation

Premium Plus adds Virtual Cockpit, 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio, parking sensors, side assist, and Audi Connect. These features transform the ownership experience. The B&O audio system is genuinely excellent. Virtual Cockpit makes the interior feel futuristic. This is the trim to target.

Prestige: Maximum Technology

Prestige adds heads-up display, adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, 360-degree camera, and matrix LED headlights. The adaptive cruise is excellent for highway commuting. Worth considering if you value these features, but the premium over Premium Plus is significant.

SQ5: Performance Focus

SQ5 swaps the 252 hp 2.0T for a 354 hp 3.0T V6 with sport suspension, bigger brakes, and aggressive styling. Acceleration is noticeably quicker and the exhaust note is satisfying. For buyers wanting both luxury and performance, SQ5 delivers. Fuel economy and purchase price are higher trade-offs.

Price Distribution Analysis

Engine and Drivetrain

2.0T TFSI (Q5)

The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque - more than adequate for the Q5's size. The engine is smooth, responsive, and efficient (23/27 mpg). This EA888 engine family is proven across millions of VW Group vehicles with strong reliability.

3.0T TFSI (SQ5)

The 3.0-liter supercharged V6 produces 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is strong (0-60 in 5.1 seconds) and the power delivery is linear. The engine is similarly proven with good reliability. Fuel economy drops to 19/24 mpg.

7-Speed S Tronic

The dual-clutch automatic delivers quick, smooth shifts and contributes to fuel efficiency. Programming is well-calibrated for both comfort and sport modes. Some owners note occasional low-speed jerkiness typical of dual-clutch transmissions, but nothing problematic.

Common Issues and Concerns

Water Pump

Water pump failures are the most common issue, typically occurring between 60K-80K miles. Symptoms include coolant loss and temperature warnings. The part is relatively inexpensive but labor is significant. Budget for replacement during ownership.

Thermostat Housing

The plastic thermostat housing can develop leaks, usually around the same mileage as water pump issues. Often replaced together to avoid repeat labor costs. Combined repair runs $1,000-$1,500.

Infotainment Glitches

The MMI infotainment system occasionally freezes or responds slowly. Software updates address most issues. Verify system is updated during inspection. These are inconveniences rather than serious problems.

Interior Quality

Audi's interior quality is class-leading. Materials are premium, assembly is tight, and design is understated but elegant. Even seven years later, well-maintained Q5 interiors look and feel premium. The dual-screen MMI system with Virtual Cockpit creates a cockpit feel that competitors struggle to match.

Rear seat space is adequate for adults and comfortable for children. Cargo capacity (25.1 cu ft behind rear seats) is competitive for the class. The power liftgate and low load floor make loading easy.

Buying Recommendations

Best Value Configuration

Target: 2018 Q5 Premium Plus, 50,000-70,000 miles, documented service history. Price: $25,000-$30,000. This delivers the full Q5 experience with Virtual Cockpit and premium audio at fair market value.

Budget Option

Target: 2018 Q5 Premium Plus, 75,000-90,000 miles, clean history. Price: $22,000-$26,000. Accept higher miles to keep pricing accessible while retaining essential features.

Performance Choice

Target: 2018 SQ5, under 60,000 miles, documented service. Price: $32,000-$38,000. The V6 power and sport tuning for buyers wanting luxury and performance together.