2023 Audi Q5 Hybrid

The Audi Q5 is this German brand's most popular model and offers a tasteful balance of luxury, refinement, and tech, all wrapped up in a package that features subtle yet handsome European styling. What's there not to like? The gas-only model is a capable machine, but for those that want even more power and added efficiency, Audi offers the Q5 Hybrid. This classy plug-in hybrid features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor that produces a healthy 362 horsepower. This allows the Q5 Hybrid to sprint to 60 mph in only five seconds and also gives it an all-electric range of 23 miles. Direct competitors for the Audi Q5 Hybrid are surprisingly hard to come by in this market: BMW doesn't currently sell a full hybrid version of the popular X3 in the USA, and the same applies to Mercedes-Benz with its GLC. That gives Audi its own little niche in this segment. The Q5 Hybrid may not be the riveting vehicle in its class, but it does almost everything well and is a class act.

The new Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid crossover places comfort and refinement above all else and cradles its occupants in premium luxury. Unlike its rival, the BMW X3, which is a lovely SUV that offers near sedan-like handling characteristics, the Audi Q5 Hybrid is more of a laid-back character that likes to soak up bumps and float through bends rather than cut through them. Steering is responsive enough, but there's not much feedback, and the 2023 Audi Q5 Hybrid fails to rotate through the bends the same way the BMW X3 does. This is not a sporty vehicle, but that potent 2.0-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain with a combined 362 horsepower makes up for the lack of handling prowess with strong power delivery and entertaining acceleration. Driven in a relaxed fashion, it's hard not to appreciate the Q5's comfortable seats, smooth ride, and the way it keeps wind noise from disturbing the calm in the cabin. We'd argue that these characteristics are more important than agile handling in this segment, so for the most part, the Q5 nails the luxury crossover brief.

Starting with the exterior, we think the Q5 Hybrid is a handsome-looking thing that looks more European than any of its euro rivals. The Q5 Hybrid isn't too shouty despite delivering powerful performance, and there's nothing we like more than a sleeper. On the road, the Q5 is more focused on providing comfort than being fast or fun in the corners, and we can totally live with that. Under the hood, the hybrid powertrain shines, making this SUV nearly as quick as its performance-focused SQ5 sibling. The interior is modern, refined, and features Audi's excellent build quality. We wish that Audi was a bit more generous with its driver assistance features and cargo space, but those are small niggles in a beautifully rounded package.