The luxury SUV market is packed with options, but the 2024 Audi Q5 continues to stand out as a top contender for those who value a perfect mix of performance, style, and technology. It’s a vehicle that feels just as at home on a cross-country road trip as it does navigating city streets or handling the daily school run. For 2024, Audi has refined its popular SUV, making its impressive features even more accessible. This guide will walk you through what makes the Audi Q5 a compelling choice, from its engine options and sophisticated interior to its advanced technology and distinct trim levels, helping you understand what this premium vehicle has to offer.

Performance and Powertrain Options

Audi offers three distinct powertrain choices for the 2024 Q5, ensuring there's an option for different driving preferences. All models come standard with Audi's renowned quattro® all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.

  • 40 TFSI: The standard engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a smooth-shifting 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain includes a mild-hybrid electric system, which helps improve fuel efficiency and provides smooth acceleration from a stop. It's an excellent choice for daily commuting and offers a balanced blend of power and economy, with a combined EPA rating of around 26 MPG.
  • 45 TFSI: For those wanting a bit more punch, the 45 TFSI engine is an upgraded version of the same 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder. This variant is tuned to deliver a more robust 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The extra power is noticeable, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience without a significant penalty in fuel economy. This is the sweet spot for many buyers who want a sportier feel.
  • 55 TFSI e (Plug-in Hybrid): The most powerful and efficient option is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model. This powertrain combines the 2.0-liter turbo engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It offers an all-electric driving range of approximately 23 miles, perfect for running errands or short commutes without using any gasoline. When the battery is depleted, it functions like a traditional hybrid, delivering strong performance and good fuel efficiency.

A Tour of the Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2024 Audi Q5 reveals a cabin defined by high-quality materials, impeccable build quality, and cutting-edge technology. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on driver comfort and intuitive controls.

Even the base trim comes with luxurious standard features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, and genuine wood trim accents. The layout is driver-centric, with a standard 10.1-inch MMI® touch display that serves as the command center for infotainment. The system is responsive and easy to navigate, with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ included for seamless smartphone integration.

One of the standout available features is the Audi virtual cockpit plus. This 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster replaces traditional gauges with a high-resolution screen that can be customized to show navigation maps, media, and vehicle information right in the driver's line of sight. It creates a futuristic and highly functional driving environment. Other available tech includes a wireless charging pad, a head-up display that projects key information onto the windshield, and a premium Bang & Olufsen® 3D sound system.

Unpacking the 2024 Audi Q5 Trim Levels

The 2024 Q5 is available in three primary trims: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. Each level adds more luxury, convenience, and technology.

Q5 Premium

  • Best for: Buyers who want the core Audi luxury experience without needing every available feature.
  • Starting MSRP: Around $45,300

The entry-level Premium trim is far from basic. It comes well-equipped with the 40 TFSI engine, leather seats, heated front seats, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen. Standard safety features are also robust, including Audi pre sense® city (which can help detect and brake for pedestrians and vehicles), a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. For 2024, adaptive cruise control is now a standard feature, making highway driving less stressful.

Q5 Premium Plus

  • Best for: The majority of buyers who appreciate a significant upgrade in tech and comfort.
  • Starting MSRP: Around $51,700

The Premium Plus is often considered the best value in the Q5 lineup. It includes all the features of the Premium and adds several desirable upgrades. Key additions include the panoramic sunroof, the Audi virtual cockpit plus, and a top-view camera system that provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle for easier parking. This trim also upgrades the audio experience with the Bang & Olufsen® sound system and adds convenience features like power-folding mirrors and driver's seat memory. The wheels are also upgraded to a stylish 19-inch design.

Q5 Prestige

  • Best for: Drivers who want the ultimate in Q5 technology, luxury, and safety.
  • Starting MSRP: Around $57,200

The top-tier Prestige trim is the showcase for everything the Q5 has to offer. It builds on the Premium Plus with advanced technology and comfort features. Standard equipment includes Matrix-design LED headlights, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a navigation system. The driving experience is enhanced with a head-up display and dual-pane acoustic glass for a quieter cabin. The Prestige trim also includes the most advanced driver-assistance features, such as Park Assist (which can automatically steer the car into a parking space) and Traffic Sign Recognition.

Body Styles: Standard SUV vs. Sportback

In addition to the traditional SUV body style, the Audi Q5 is also available as a Sportback. The Sportback features a sloping, coupe-like roofline that gives it a more athletic and stylish profile. This design choice slightly reduces rear headroom and cargo capacity compared to the standard model, but it offers a distinct look that many find appealing. The Sportback is available in all the same trim levels and with the same powertrain options, allowing buyers to choose the style that best fits their personality without compromising on performance or features.

The 2024 Audi Q5 is a masterclass in balance. It delivers a comfortable and composed ride, a range of capable and efficient powertrains, and an interior that feels both luxurious and technologically advanced. Its standard quattro® all-wheel drive and comprehensive suite of safety features provide peace of mind in any condition. With a trim lineup that offers clear and valuable upgrades at each step, there is a Q5 for every type of luxury SUV buyer. It remains a benchmark in its class for a reason, offering a complete and polished package that is hard to fault.