Audi Q5 55 TFSI e PHEV Review

Performance 

Under the bonnet you’ll find a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine linked to an electric motor and battery. When combined, the result is a healthy 362bhp making it far punchier than you’d expect. In fact, 0-60mph takes just over five seconds, which puts this Q5 only just behind the performance-orientated SQ5, in fact. That’s pretty rapid.

Things slow down a bit when the petrol engine kicks in, though, for while the 2.0-litre turbo is punchy enough to not leave the Q5 straggling, the lack of instant torque and power delivery from the EV powertrain is instantly noticeable. 

Drive 

The Q5 drives in much the same way as its ICE-powered range-mates, so expect a commanding driving position and impressive steering for an SUV, but offset by an overly firm ride, which means you feel every bump on broken road surfaces. Audi still hasn’t cracked the trade-off between ride and handling in its crossovers, which genuinely feel firmer and harsher than most rivals – though some people prefer this, especially those who like to drive quickly or blast up and down motorways, which is where you’ll find many a Q5. It does temper the urban appeal of the Q5, though, which feels unsettled and bumpy on badly-maintained roads.