The all-new, third-gen Audi Q5 is now available at U.S. dealers, and while it is only available with gas engines, Europe also gets the ‘e-hybrid’ plug-in hybrid variant. This is a thoroughly improved successor to the PHEV that was sold in the U.S. until the 2025 model year.
We had a chance to take a close look at the new Audi Q5 e-Hybrid recently, and here are our thoughts:
Design
The Audi Q5 e-hybrid has a bolder exterior than its predecessor. Its upright front incorporates a wide Singleframe grille, vertically positioned, functional side air inlets, and a large lower air intake featuring a honeycomb pattern.
The Matrix LED headlamps and the hood both have a sleeker design compared to the previous-generation plug-in hybrid model. On the sides, the Q5 e-hybrid features a straight beltline, sleek mirrors, and new wheels in sizes up to 21 inches.
The charge port door is located on the left side rear quarter panel, above the wheel arch. Flush roof rails highlight the gently sloping roofline of the vehicle.
At the rear, the Q5 e-hybrid flaunts Audi’s second-generation OLED taillights, connected via a light strip. Another noteworthy feature here is a projection light, which is located in the spoiler above the windshield and expands the center high-mount stop light area.
Interior
Audi has dialed up digitalization but retained key physical controls for multimedia and HVAC.
The interior of the Audi Q5 e-hybrid offers a balance of conventional layout and progressive styling influenced by new trends. The upper dashboard extends into the front door panels along a consistent horizontal line, creating a wraparound layout.
There are three dashboard displays, comprising an 11.9-inch instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, and a 10.9-inch passenger touchscreen, arranged asymmetrically. Audi offers two USB-C ports with up to 60 watts of output and a cooled, 15-watt wireless charger in the front, and two USB-C ports with up to 100 watts of output in the rear.
The storage compartment under the center armrest is larger in the new-generation model. There’s 438 liters (15.5 cu. ft.) of cargo space, expandable to up to 1,358 liters (48 cu. ft.) by folding the rear seat.
Compared to the regular Euro-spec Q5, the plug-in hybrid variant sees a reduction of 115 liters (4.1 cu. ft.) in the maximum cargo space.
Experience in the Audi Q5 e-hybrid
Ingress in the Audi Q5 Plug-in Hybrid is straightforward and familiar for the segment. The front seats offer a comfortable setup with strong shoulder support, good lumbar support, and adequate headroom for a six-footer. Under-thigh support initially feels average, but the adjustable thigh extension will improve comfort on long road trips.
The flat-topped steering wheel feels grippy in hand, and the dashboard wraps around the driver, creating a more cocooned feel than before. Ambient lighting introduces a sportier tone to the cabin.
Material quality is fully in line with Audi expectations, with brushed aluminum trim and tighter fit and finish than the outgoing Q5. Gloss-black trim on the center console looks premium but attracts fingerprints and scratches.
The plug-in hybrid version shows only minor visual differences in the cabin and cargo area. A battery-charge readout is added to the driver display, and the vehicle includes the extra charging flap on the body. In the cargo area, the compartment under the boot floor is no longer accessible because electrical components are packaged there.
With the front seat set for a six-footer, the rear seat offers adequate legroom and acceptable headroom, but knee room remains limited for taller adults. The front seatbacks are scalloped to create a little extra clearance, though the second row still does not feel notably roomier than the older Q5.
Back and shoulder support are good, and the adjustable backrest angle is ideal for taller passengers. A large center tunnel limits middle-seat usability for adults. Large glass areas and the panoramic sunroof help the rear cabin feel brighter and more open.
Specifications
The Audi Q5 e-hybrid employs a 2.0-liter turbocharged gas engine and a 105 kW (141 hp) electric motor, integrated into the housing of a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
This setup is available in two configurations, one with 220 kW (295 hp) of system power and 450 Nm (332 lb.-ft.) of system torque, and one with 270 kW (362 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb.-ft.).
A 20.7 kWh (net) battery pack powers the electric motor, and it supports only AC charging at up to 11 kW. It takes two and a half hours for a full charge and delivers a combined EV-mode range of up to 101 kilometers (63 miles) in the base configuration, and up to 97 kilometers (60 miles) in the more powerful configuration, both as per WLTP.
Price
Also See: First Look: New Audi Q5 Sportback e-Hybrid (PHEV) is surprisingly practical
In Germany, the Audi Q5 e-hybrid begins at EUR 65,200 (USD 75,268) in the 220 kW (295 hp) configuration and EUR 73,600 (USD 84,965) in the 270 kW (362 hp) configuration. We’re waiting for confirmation on the all-new plug-in hybrid luxury SUV’s U.S. arrival.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
