The Q5 is Audi's smallest entry in the SUV/crossover market. The Q5 is similar in length and width to the A4 sedan on the outside, with a couple of more inches of legroom on the inside. Under the hood, the Q5 equips either a 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder engine (211-bhp) or a 3.0l V6 (272-bhp). Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard on all models. A drive select system allows the driver to control characteristics of the active suspension, steering, transmission and engine performance. When equipped with the four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic, the all-wheel-drive Q5 is rated at a respectable 20 / 27 (city/hwy). With pricing starting in the mid-thirties, the Q5 is a relatively good bargain in its segment.

The Q5 gains a new diesel model and a high performance "S" model for 2014. Horsepower increases to 220-bhp on the base four-cylinder engine.