2022 Audi Q5

Pros: Upscale interior; robust acceleration of SQ5; ride and handling balance

Cons: Freestanding control screen looks tacked on; prices rise quickly as options are added

CG Says: The 2022 Audi Q5 gets revised exterior trim and wheels on the 45 TFSI Premium model. The Premium Plus models gets a power-adjustable steering column and the plug-in hybrid gets a bigger battery. The SQ5 now has standard carbon-fiber interior trim. The Audi Q5 premium compact crossover SUV was redesigned for 2018. A Q5 Sportback with a more rakish rear roofline is was added last year. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with a mild hybrid system that is rated at 201 horsepower in 40 TFSI versions or 261 hp with the 45 TFSI. Both are paired with a 7-speed automated-manual transmission. A PHEV plug-in hybrid model combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter gas engine with an electric motor for a total of 362 horsepower. The sporty SQ5 variant has a 349-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is standard on all, and the system can conserve fuel by disconnecting the rear axle when extra traction is not needed. Automatic emergency braking is standard, and an available vehicle-exit-assist system warns if a car or bicycle is approaching as a door is opened. Other available features include LED headlights; panoramic sunroof; adaptive cruise control; lane-keep assist; rear cross-traffic alert; blind-spot alert; and a traffic-jam assist feature that combines acceleration, braking, and steering guidance at speeds below 40 mph. The Q5 is a comfortable, quiet premium-compact crossover with an impeccably finished cabin and polished, athletic road manners. The SQ5 adds a healthy extra dose of all-around performance, albeit for a significant price premium.