Audi Q5 Review
Premium Comfort, Technology, and Value with Audi Q5 Leasing
Introduction
When it comes to the world of premium mid-size SUVs, the Audi Q5 leasing consistently ranks among the best sellers. Combining Audi’s trademark quality, advanced technology, and refined driving experience, the Q5 offers families and professionals a versatile SUV that never feels ordinary.
The Q5 has carved out a reputation for being the sweet spot between compact SUVs like the Audi Q3 and large executive models like the Audi Q7. It delivers the right mix of size, practicality, performance, and luxury. For 2025, the refreshed Audi Q5 builds on this legacy with improved efficiency, more tech, and sharper design cues.
Of course, such a prestigious SUV comes at a price, and buying one outright can be financially challenging. That’s why Audi Q5 leasing has become such a popular option. It allows drivers to enjoy all the luxury, performance, and flexibility of the Q5 without the large upfront costs or worries about depreciation. Whether for business or personal use, Audi Q5 leasing makes premium SUV driving a smart and attainable reality.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore every facet of the 2025 Audi Q5 — from design and performance to practicality and running costs — while explaining why Audi Q5 leasing could be the best way to experience Audi’s mid-size SUV.
At a Glance
- Model: Audi Q5 (2025 Model Year)
- Category: Mid-size luxury SUV
- Seating: 5 passengers
- Powertrains: Petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and performance SQ5
- Range (PHEV): Up to 38 miles electric-only (WLTP)
- Transmission: 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch or 8-speed Tiptronic (SQ5)
- Drive: Quattro all-wheel drive (standard on most trims)
- Boot Space: 520 litres (expandable to 1,520 litres)
- Safety: 5-star Euro NCAP rating
- Leasing Highlight: Competitive monthly payments due to strong residual values make Audi Q5 leasing one of the most cost-effective ways to drive a luxury SUV.
Key Features
The Audi Q5 stands out thanks to a blend of high-tech features, premium design, and versatile performance.
- Quattro AWD: Legendary Audi all-wheel-drive system for maximum grip and stability.
- Powertrains: A broad engine lineup, including efficient mild-hybrids and eco-friendly plug-in hybrids.
- Audi Virtual Cockpit: A fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster with customisable layouts.
- MMI Touch Display: Central 10.1-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback and intuitive menus.
- Comfort & Luxury: High-quality upholstery, tri-zone climate control, ambient lighting.
- Practicality: Flexible seating layout, wide-opening boot, and family-friendly design.
- Safety Systems: Audi pre-sense, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise assist.
With Audi Q5 leasing, you can select trims like S line or Vorsprung that bundle these features into attractive monthly deals. Leasing makes high-spec versions — often costly to purchase — far more attainable.
Range & Batteries
The Q5 is available in multiple powertrain configurations, catering to different driver needs.
Petrol & Diesel Mild-Hybrids
- Petrol (45 TFSI): 2.0-litre turbo producing 265 PS, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.
- Diesel (40 TDI): 2.0-litre with 204 PS, also mild-hybrid equipped for efficiency.
- Fuel Economy: Expect 35–45 mpg depending on driving conditions.
Plug-in Hybrid (TFSI e)
- Battery: 17.9 kWh
- Range: Up to 38 miles electric-only (WLTP)
- CO₂ Emissions: Around 35–44 g/km, qualifying for favourable company car tax bands.
- Driving Modes: EV mode, Hybrid Auto, and Battery Hold.
SQ5 Performance
- Engine: 3.0-litre V6 diesel with 341 PS
- Performance: 0–62 mph in 5.1 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic with Quattro AWD
This breadth of choice makes the Q5 appealing to a wide audience. Business users are especially drawn to the plug-in hybrid, as leasing one brings low BiK tax rates and predictable monthly costs. That’s why Audi Q5 leasing is often seen as a financially and environmentally savvy move.
Performance & Drive
The Audi Q5 has always been celebrated for its driving refinement, and the 2025 version continues that tradition.
- Handling: Balanced steering and excellent grip thanks to Quattro AWD make the Q5 secure in all conditions.
- Ride Quality: Standard suspension is supple, but adaptive air suspension (optional) offers a smoother, more versatile ride.
- Engines: The petrol and diesel mild-hybrids provide smooth acceleration, while the plug-in hybrid adds near-silent EV motoring in urban areas.
- SQ5 Thrills: For enthusiasts, the SQ5 combines SUV practicality with sports-car performance, offering plenty of torque and a thrilling exhaust note.
- Driving Tech: Drive select allows you to adjust steering, throttle, and suspension characteristics with modes like Comfort, Dynamic, and Efficiency.
The Q5 offers something for every type of driver, and leasing allows you to choose without long-term compromise. For instance, if you’re not sure whether a plug-in hybrid suits your lifestyle, Audi Q5 leasing lets you try it for two to three years without worrying about resale values.
Charging
For plug-in hybrid versions of the Audi Q5, charging is straightforward and designed for urban or suburban lifestyles.
- AC Charging: Up to 7.4 kW (wallbox or public charger)
- Home Charging: Around 2.5 hours to recharge fully on a 7 kW home wallbox
- Domestic Socket: Around 6 hours on a standard UK 3-pin plug (not recommended for regular use)
Unlike fully electric SUVs, you won’t find rapid DC charging here. The Q5 TFSI e doesn’t need it because the battery is relatively small and designed for daily commutes.
For leasing customers, this is an important point: Audi Q5 leasing of a plug-in hybrid gives you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy electric-only commuting during the week, reducing running costs, but still have petrol power for longer motorway trips without range anxiety. This balance appeals to businesses and families who don’t want to go fully electric just yet.
Running Costs & Emissions
Fuel Economy
- Petrol (45 TFSI): 35–38 mpg
- Diesel (40 TDI): 40–45 mpg
- Plug-in Hybrid (55 TFSI e): 100+ mpg combined (WLTP), depending on charging frequency
Emissions
- Diesel & Petrol: Between 160–190 g/km CO₂
- Plug-in Hybrid: As low as 35 g/km CO₂
Company Car Tax (BiK)
The plug-in hybrid Audi Q5 is particularly attractive for company car drivers. With BiK rates starting as low as 8% for PHEV models, monthly tax bills are dramatically lower compared to petrol or diesel versions.
This is one of the strongest arguments for Audi Q5 leasing among business customers. Leasing companies often secure large volumes of plug-in hybrids, passing savings on to drivers while ensuring low tax exposure.
Interior & Technology
Step inside the Audi Q5 and you’ll immediately understand its premium appeal.
Interior Design
- Materials: Soft-touch plastics, brushed aluminium, and optional fine wood inlays.
- Comfort: Ergonomic seats with heating as standard; ventilation and massage available on higher trims.
- Space: Ample room for front and rear passengers, with excellent head and legroom.
Technology Highlights
- Audi Virtual Cockpit: A crisp, fully digital driver’s display that shows maps, driving data, and media.
- MMI Touch Display: 10.1-inch central screen with haptic feedback and wireless Apple CarPlay.
- Voice Control: Natural language recognition for navigation and media.
- Connectivity: Wireless smartphone charging, multiple USB-C ports, and Audi Connect services.
- Sound Systems: Options range from the standard 10-speaker setup to a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium system.
For lessees, interior upgrades are a big attraction. With Audi Q5 leasing, you can often step into higher trims like the S line or Vorsprung — trims that might be financially out of reach if purchasing outright.
Practicality & Boot Space
The Audi Q5 isn’t just about luxury — it’s highly practical too.
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Boot Capacity:
- Standard models: 520 litres
- Plug-in hybrid: Slightly reduced to 465 litres due to the battery
- Rear seats folded: Up to 1,520 litres
- Rear Seats: 40:20:40 split-folding seats with sliding and reclining options.
- Cabin Storage: Generous door bins, centre console compartments, and cupholders.
- Tow Capacity: Up to 2,400 kg (depending on engine).
Families appreciate the Q5’s wide-opening rear doors and flat load floor, making it easy to fit child seats and load bulky items. Businesses using Audi Q5 leasing also value the practicality, as the vehicle doubles as a professional and family SUV without compromise.
Safety
Audi has equipped the Q5 with one of the most comprehensive safety packages in its class.
- Euro NCAP: 5-star safety rating
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Driver Assistance Systems:
- Audi pre-sense city (collision mitigation)
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise assist
- Traffic sign recognition
- Parking system plus with 360-degree cameras (higher trims)
- Passive Safety: Multiple airbags, strong body structure, ISOFIX child-seat mounts.
With Audi Q5 leasing, even entry-level trims benefit from most of these systems. Business fleet managers also favour the Q5 for its safety record, helping protect drivers and passengers while lowering insurance risk.
Options
Audi offers a wide variety of optional packs and features to customise the Q5.
- Comfort & Sound Pack: Adds Bang & Olufsen audio, advanced key, and parking system plus.
- Tour Pack: Adaptive cruise assist, lane guidance, and efficiency assist.
- Technology Pack: Head-up display and larger navigation features.
- Exterior Styling: S line body kit, 20–21-inch alloy wheels, black styling package.
One of the benefits of Audi Q5 leasing is flexibility. Instead of buying a car outright and paying thousands upfront for options, you can spread the cost of these premium features over your monthly lease.
Rival Cars
The premium mid-size SUV market is crowded, and the Audi Q5 faces tough competition.
- BMW X3: Sportier handling, similar technology, but less refined cabin.
- Mercedes-Benz GLC: Luxurious interior and advanced tech, but less agile than the Q5.
- Volvo XC60: Safety-focused with Scandinavian design, but infotainment not as intuitive.
- Jaguar F-Pace: Stylish and engaging, though less efficient.
- Lexus NX: Hybrid efficiency, but lacks the Q5’s premium feel.
Still, Audi Q5 leasing is often more competitive in monthly costs compared to rivals, thanks to strong residual values and Audi’s reputation for reliability.
Verdict
The Audi Q5 remains one of the most versatile and accomplished premium SUVs on the market. Its blend of comfort, practicality, safety, and performance ensures it appeals to a wide audience — from families to business professionals.
The variety of powertrains, including efficient diesels, powerful petrols, and eco-friendly plug-in hybrids, means there’s a Q5 for everyone. Inside, the technology and build quality set a benchmark that rivals struggle to match.
Where the Q5 really shines is in its financial accessibility through Audi Q5 leasing. Leasing allows drivers to enjoy all the premium features of the Q5 without tying up capital or worrying about depreciation. With attractive monthly deals, low company car tax for PHEV versions, and the ability to upgrade every few years, Audi Q5 leasing makes more sense today than ever before.
Next Steps
If you’re considering the Audi Q5 as your next vehicle, leasing is undoubtedly the most flexible and cost-effective route. Here’s how to proceed:
- Assess Your Needs: Decide whether petrol, diesel, or plug-in hybrid fits your lifestyle.
- Compare Leasing Deals: Look for Audi Q5 leasing offers with the right mileage allowance and contract length.
- Choose Your Trim: S line for sporty styling, Vorsprung for ultimate luxury, or SQ5 for performance.
- Customise Options: Add the features that matter most, spreading costs over the lease.
- Apply for Finance: Quick online applications streamline the approval process.
- Drive Away: Enjoy a brand-new Audi Q5 with predictable monthly payments and none of the worries of ownership.
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