2021 Audi Q5 Performance

The Audi Q5 is the best-selling model from Audi. Hence for the year 2021, Audi has completely refreshed the Q5. Now the SUV features the company's Singleframe grille up front. The 2021 Audi Q5 45 TFSI models also get Advanced line exterior trim as standard, while Q5 55 TFSI PHEV variants come standard with the S line exterior package.

Speaking of performance, Audi has introduced a 12V hybrid system to aid the 2.0L four-cylinder engine of this compact SUV. There is also an increase in the power output of all models of the 2021 Audi Q5. The 45 TFSI models now make 261 hp, while the hybrid's power has also been bumped to 362 hp. Prices of the 2021 Audi Q5 remain unchanged in comparison to 2020 at $43,300.

"We've driven the latest-gen Q5 over all manner of highway and even over miles and miles of dirt roads in Mexico and came away satisfied. Audi has always done a great job of blending sporty handling and comfort, and the Q5 exemplifies that." - KBB

2021 Audi Q5: Engine, Power, Torque, Gearbox, and Drivetrain

Waking up this beautifully aggressive ride from its slumber is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 cylinder unit that belts out 261 hp, 13 hp more than the 2020 model, and 273 lb-ft of torque. It is hooked up to a buttery smooth and well-seasoned 7-speed DCT and a new 12-volt hybrid setup that tweak the performance of the engine to that extra bit where you get the adrenaline flowing down your spine.

One of the key factors in the success of the Audi Q5 is its inbred Quattro AWD drivetrain, which it offers as standard, which makes driving this compact SUV a fun element. We love our AWD more than any other setting and with the Q5 giving us just that, it is quite easy to understand why people have been buying it like hotcakes.

Models	2021 Audi Q5	2021 BMW X3	2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300	2021 Volvo XC60
MSRP	$43,300	$45,000	$45,200	$43,095
Engine	2.0L I-4 Turbo	2.0L I-4 Twin Power Turbo	2.0L I-4 Turbo	2.0L I-4 Turbo
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD
Transmission	7-Speed DCT	8-Speed Automatic	8-Speed Automatic	9-Speed Automatic
Power	261hp@5,000RPM	248hp@5,200RPM	255hp@5,800RPM	250hp@5,500RPM
Torque	273lb-ft @1,600RPM	258lb-ft@1,450RPM	273lb-ft@1,800RPM	258lb-ft@1,500RPM

If we compare the prices and power outputs of the rivals, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Class SUV follows the Q5, which now takes the top spot with its most powerful 261 hp motor, meanwhile, the BMW X3 finishes last. Its AWD variant is priced quite high but the power figures are not very impressive. The Volvo XC60 does well to balance things out.

2021 Audi Q5: 0-60 MPH, Quarter-Mile Time, and Top Speed

The turbocharged i-4 unit was never made for performance but when it comes to it, the unit surely packs a punch to impress. And this time, there's a 12V hybrid unit and 13 extra ponies to further help its cause. Find an empty strip of road, shift into Sport mode and you are ready for the show.

Push the pedal in and the Audi Q5 hushes forward in a sense of urgency and completes the 0-60 mph run in 5.9 seconds while the quarter-mile takes 14.2 seconds. Considering that this ride was originally made for comfort, luxury, and then performance, this is very respectable. 

Models	2021 Audi Q5	2021 BMW X3	2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300	2021 Volvo XC60
0-60 MPH	5.9 sec	6.0 sec	5.6 sec	6.1 sec
Quarter Mile	14.2 sec	15.1 sec	13.1 sec	14.1 sec
Top Speed	135 MPH	135 MPH	145 MPH	140 MPH

Put them all on the starting line, and the GLC 300 comes out leading the pack overall. However, the Audi Q5 is not far behind as it takes the second spot. The X3 and the XC60 come in tailing the Audi in the following spots respectively. The XC60 actually performs better when pushed for the quarter-mile, while the Bimmer gets saturated and takes the longest.

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2021 Audi Q5: Braking Performance and Specifications

The braking system of the 2021 Audi Q5 is a hidden gem, with multiple brake assistance systems working in unison to present a commanding braking performance. First up is the ABS with the Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) system that alters the weight of the vehicle on every brake rotor to harmonize the braking.

You also receive an intuitive brake assist system that eliminates most of the man force needed to push the brake pedal. Thanks to all the tech provided, the braking setup inspires confidence at all times and does not allow you to break a sweat even in panic conditions. With all these tech-savvy features and the insanely well-tuned setup, you get an amazing stopping power.

Models	2021 Audi Q5	2021 BMW X3	2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300	2021 Volvo XC60
Brake Rotors: Front (in)	13.3	13.7	13.5	13.6
Brake Rotors: Rear (in)	13.0	13.5	12.6	12.6
Curb Weight (lbs)	4,045	3,931	4,028	4,008
60-0 MPH	112 ft	114 ft	110 ft	114 ft

The Audi Q5 has a 60-0 mph distance of 112 feet, which is great considering its bulk. The Q5 is the heaviest in its segment and yet is one of the top performers. The Mercedes-Benz GLC Class SUV impresses again with its performance but not by a large margin. The Volvo XC60 and the BMW X3 come out equally admirably with the exact same braking performance, and hence, tie in the third spot.

2021 Audi Q5 Handling: Stability and Suspension

The turbocharged Inline-4 of the Audi Q5 punches around the city with gentle handling. The highway performance is also innately quiet and robust. The daily driver will love its deft handling that helps him to sneak past any twisty two-lane. Audi’s swift responding transmission is a treat to handle for the driver, giving him the joy of an intriguing manual transmission in an automated package. The adaptive suspension too has earned accolades from almost all users.

This solid suspension evens out the ride and maintains stability in any condition. The dampers adjust themselves according to the various driving modes, giving you a distinct impression on each cruise. The icing on the cake is the steering wheel which is lightweight and brisk to maneuver and provides the right amount of feedback from the front wheels which can sometimes seem artificial. Overall, but the ride is energetic and buttery smooth which will surely put a smile on your face.

"The electric motor also smooths out the four-cylinder's edges in sound and feel, resulting in a level of refinement reminiscent of a V6. Having a dual-clutch automatic rather than some e-CVT helps, too." - Autoblog

2021 Audi Q5 MPG: City, Highway, and Combined Fuel Economy

The powerhouse used within the Q5’s hood has been heralded by users for being very reliable and hence is perfect for the ride’s humble yet macho stance. The TFSI capable engine helps in minimizing fuel consumption whilst maximizing efficiency. This fuel-saving technology reaps impressive MPG figures in real-time usage.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offers 22 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on the highway, and 24 MPG combined. Though these are not the best, they are certainly one of the better ones to be called respectable. Thankfully the Q5 gets an adequately sized fuel tank of 18.5 gallons which helps you maximize the overall range after a full refuel to 463 miles. 

Models	2021 Audi Q5	2021 BMW X3	2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300	2021 Volvo XC60
Fuel MPG (City)	23	25	22	22
Fuel MPG (Highway)	28	29	29	29
Fuel MPG (Combined)	25	27	24	24
Fuel Capacity	18.5 gallons	17.2 gallons	17.4 gallons	18.5 gallons
Range (City/Highway/Combined)	423/518/463 miles	430/499/464 miles	383/505/418 miles	407/537/418 miles

Besides driver assistance, another arena where the Bavarian beasts have proven their mettle is maximizing fuel efficiency. The BMW X3 offers the best MPG figures, while the others offer exactly the same numbers which are still lower than the X3. The Audi Q5 offers marginally lesser fuel economy on the highway, and hence, slips into the same spot as the X3.

Should you buy the 2021 Audi Q5?

YES! The Audi Q5 is a total powerhouse that can offer you the best of performance, comfort, and features in its price bracket. While it loses its touch ever so slightly on the fuel economy front, it makes up for it by offering the standard Quattro AWD unit. So, if you have been searching for the perfect family car for yourself, it's time to give a nice and worthy consideration to the new Audi Q5.

Also Read:

• Audi launches a Sportback version for the 2021 Q5 with extensive design updates

• Find out what is being speculated about the 2022 Audi Q5 in this preview

• Is the top-tier Audi Q5 Prestige worth all the money it costs?

• Is the Premium Plus 45 TFSI the most value for money trim of the 2021 Audi Q5?

• Here is a complete buying guide of the 2021 Audi Q5 Premium Plus 55 TFSI PHEV priced at $55,800

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2021 Audi Q5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Audi Q5 model to buy?

The Audi Q5 is available in three trims, with prices starting at $43,300 for the base trim. All models of the SUV now come standard with a lot more features than before. However, the mid-tier Premium Plus turns up as the most value for money buy.

What is Audi Q5 45 TFSI?

All models of the Audi Q5 can be had in two flavors. The base models are equipped with a 2.0L motor that makes 261 hp. They are termed by Audi as 45 TFSI models.

Is Audi Q5 reliable?

J.D. Power rates the Audi Q5 with 72 points overall. There's no doubt that the Q5 is a fairly reliable compact SUV.