2023 Audi Q5

The 2023 Audi Q5 might not be the brand's most exciting model, but it is its most popular, and that's saying something. This compact luxury crossover SUV is now in its second generation and remains a top contender in this segment, even alongside the sporty BMW X3 and luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. The 2023 Q5 effortlessly exudes Audi style, and its European styling says class without having to be flashy. Inside, it's more of the same; a premium interior and contemporary tech with build quality that's second to none. All Q5s have a turbocharged 2.0-liter turbocharged engine which ranges in output from 201 horsepower in the base model to a much more potent 362 hp in the plug-in hybrid variant. While the new Audi Q5 crossover falls short of the driver appeal inherent in its BMW rival, this is a crossover, not a sports car, so the Audi's more refined, understated approach can't truly be faulted.

The cheapest way to get behind the wheel of the Audi Q5 is with the Premium 40 TFSI which starts at an MSRP of $44,200 in the USA. It's followed by the Premium Plus 40 TFSI at $49,400, while the Prestige 40 TFSI will cost $54,900. With the more powerful 45 TFSI powertrain, expect to pay $2,500 more for the Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. These prices are exclusive of Audi's $1,195 US destination charge, as well as tax, licensing, and registration fees.

Notably, the PHEV variants could qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. That makes the overall price of the Audi Q5 PHEV a lot more tenable, as it starts at $57,400 for the Premium. That increases to $61,700 for the Premium Plus and $67,000 for the Prestige.

Whereas the BMW X3 offers a driving experience bordering on sporty, the Audi Q5 goes in the opposite direction. This car is all about a cool, calm, and comfortable drive. Besides, the base model's modest 201-hp engine doesn't exactly encourage hasty driving, either, but is perfectly happy pottering around town. You'll derive more pleasure from the 261-hp turbo-four in the 45 TSFI or the 362-hp PHEV when the speeds rise. The Q5 offers a supple chassis and suspension setup that soaks up bumps and feels utterly refined on the open road.

The Audi's electromechanical steering is light and precise in city traffic and, in Dynamic mode, weighs up nicely but doesn't send much feedback to the driver. Through the corners, the Q5 is sure-footed enough but won't win any track days and has a tendency for natural understeer when pushed too hard. The hybrid model's added power makes the Q5 more fun to drive, but it can't take away from its ultimate purpose, which is to be a comfortable family SUV.

The Audi Q5 has many strong competitors to deal with in this corner of the market, yet the brand has managed to find its own little niche. The Q5 is not the most exciting to drive, and its exterior styling can be described as reserved yet handsome. Its powertrains, too, are not the most potent, but the entire package comes together in harmonious glory. The ride is refined, and the cabin boasts impeccable build quality. The engines perform their duty well, and the hybrid is especially good. The level of tech is up there too. If you need to get the kids to school and take the stress out of the daily commute, there aren't many better ways to do it, while the Q5's understated persona will also suit more conservative buyers. We do wish that the Q5 offered more cargo space and a few extra driver assistance systems, but there's a reason why this is Audi's most popular model; it's a balanced machine that knows what its strengths are.

Even though the more powerful hybrid is faster, the upgraded base powertrain will be enough for most. That makes the $57,400 Q5 PHEV something to think about but starts to look more attractive if federal tax credits are considered. Regardless of which powertrain you choose, you'd want one of the higher trim levels to give you everything you typically need from a luxury crossover. The Premium Plus strikes the sweet spot at just under $50k for the base powertrain and $61,700 for the PHEV. Our pick is the Premium Plus 45 TFSI for $51,900.