The Audi Q5 has long been a popular choice in the luxury SUV segment, and for good reason. Known for its blend of performance, technology, and sophisticated design, Audi continuously refines this model to stay ahead of the curve. While the 2017 Q5 Audi was already a strong contender, the subsequent 2018 model year brought some notable enhancements, particularly in fuel efficiency and the introduction of the next-generation quattro® all-wheel drive system. Let’s dive into what makes these updates significant for drivers and why the 2018 Audi Q5 marked a step forward from the 2017 Q5 Audi.
One of the most compelling improvements in the 2018 Audi Q5 over the 2017 Q5 Audi is its enhanced fuel economy. The 2018 Q5 boasts an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating of 25 mpg. This is a +3 mpg improvement over the 2017 Q5 Audi. This leap in efficiency doesn’t come at the expense of performance; instead, it’s largely attributed to the introduction of quattro® all-wheel drive with ultra® technology. For drivers looking to balance luxury with practicality, this fuel efficiency upgrade is a significant advantage of the newer model compared to the 2017 Q5 Audi.
Alt text: Diagram showcasing the components of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system with ultra technology in the 2018 Q5, highlighting the front multi-plate clutch and rear dog leg clutch for variable torque distribution.
The heart of this fuel efficiency boost lies in the innovative quattro® with ultra® technology. This system represents a significant evolution from traditional all-wheel drive. Unlike older systems that are constantly engaged, quattro® with ultra® technology is designed to be proactive and intelligent. It utilizes an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch and a decoupling rear axle differential to achieve fully variable torque distribution. In essence, the system can seamlessly switch between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive depending on driving conditions and driver input.
This on-demand all-wheel drive capability is a key differentiator from the 2017 Q5 Audi and many other systems. Traditional on-demand systems can take a noticeable amount of time to engage, sometimes up to two seconds. However, quattro® with ultra® technology operates electromechanically and can fully engage in under 250 milliseconds. This near-instantaneous engagement ensures optimal traction and stability when needed, without the constant drag and fuel consumption associated with permanent all-wheel drive systems.
Sensors throughout the vehicle constantly monitor factors such as wheel slip, cornering speed, and engine torque. A sophisticated computer processes this data every 10 milliseconds, predicting traction needs 500 milliseconds into the future. This predictive capability allows the system to engage quattro® preemptively, often before the driver even realizes additional traction is required. The result is a driving experience that feels as confident and secure as a traditional quattro® system, but with significantly improved fuel efficiency compared to the 2017 Q5 Audi and its peers.
Beyond fuel efficiency and the advanced quattro® system, the 2018 Audi Q5 also benefits from performance enhancements. It features a new 2.0-liter TFSI® four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, enabling the 2018 Q5 to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. This is a notable improvement of 1.1 seconds over the 2017 Q5 Audi, offering a more responsive and dynamic driving experience.
Alt text: Front view of a silver 2018 Audi Q5 showcasing its updated grille and headlight design, emphasizing the modern aesthetic improvements over the 2017 model.
In terms of technology, the 2018 Q5 builds upon the already well-equipped 2017 Q5 Audi with even more advanced features. Standard driver assistance systems include Audi pre sense basic and city, enhancing safety and driver awareness. Furthermore, the available Audi virtual cockpit provides a cutting-edge infotainment experience, displaying key information in a customizable and easily accessible format. These technological advancements further solidify the 2018 Q5 as a leader in its class, offering a more connected and safer driving environment than the 2017 Q5 Audi.
To put the fuel efficiency of the 2018 Audi Q5 into perspective against its competitors and the 2017 Q5 Audi, consider the following comparison of EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings in the luxury SUV segment:
| City | Highway | Combined | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Audi Q5 | 23 mpg | 27 mpg | 25 mpg |
| 2017 Acura RDX AWD | 19 mpg | 27 mpg | 22 mpg |
| 2017 BMW X3 xDrive28i | 21 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg |
| 2017 Infiniti QX50 AWD | 17 mpg | 24 mpg | 20 mpg |
| 2017 Jaguar F-PACE 35t | 18 mpg | 23 mpg | 20 mpg |
| 2017 Lexus NX 200t AWD | 22 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg |
| 2017 Lexus RX 350 | 20 mpg | 27 mpg | 23 mpg |
| 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4MATIC | 21 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg |
| 2017 Volvo XC60 AWD (Turbo) | 20 mpg | 29 mpg | 23 mpg |
| 2017 Volvo XC60 AWD (Twin-charged) | 20 mpg | 27 mpg | 22 mpg |
As the table illustrates, the 2018 Audi Q5 not only surpasses the 2017 Q5 Audi in fuel economy but also leads its competitive segment in combined MPG ratings. This makes the 2018 Q5 a standout choice for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency without compromising on the luxury and performance expected from an Audi SUV.
In conclusion, while the 2017 Q5 Audi was a well-regarded luxury SUV, the 2018 Audi Q5 brought significant improvements, most notably in fuel efficiency thanks to the innovative quattro® with ultra® technology. Combined with performance enhancements, advanced technology, and a continued commitment to luxury, the 2018 Q5 represents a compelling upgrade and a strong offering in the competitive luxury SUV market. For those considering a 2017 Q5 Audi, understanding these advancements in the 2018 model is crucial in making an informed decision.
