2014 / 2015 Audi Q5 TDI Detailed Review and Road Test

[@stevedeffinger6268]

I have owned or driven almost every car made over my 73 years. I have owned my 2014 Q5 for 15 months. I am blown away by the quality design and build of this car. I didn't buy the TDI for fuel economy but I am pleasantly rewarded with average fuel numbers as high as 42 MPG and normal everyday mileage of 37 MPG. It is worth every penny I saved to buy it.

[@bvedant]

VAG vehicles for life.

[@mirakonpaintball8607]

Liar

[@amirmohammadi6069]

@14:00 Just a note on that side mirror knob. If you leave it all the way up you will shorten the lifespan of the heating elements in side heating mirrors. It should be left on left or right mirror icon if you dont need to use the heated feature.

[@NOT_cringe_kay32]

By Far the best vehicle review I’ve ever viewed very detailed very thorough I am looking to purchase the TDI in a few weeks your video was more helpful than any of the dealers I’ve test driven with please keep them coming!!!

[@Jokero_YT]

Alex does have some of the best reviews, very detailed.

[@italianguy25]

Your review's are my favorite, so detailed; and analysis that other reviewers don't even notice or will ever notice!

[@Wrist-rolls]

Your reviews are so thorough. You're the only one I have seen to show the inflatable spare tire.

[@RM9K]

Alex, where did you come from??? You're a walking, talking, driving encyclopedia of knowledge on the cars you review, not to mention your obvious talent for simplifying many of the more technical aspects and marketing/gimmicky jargon from the industry (Quattro, SH-AWD, etc.). Perhaps not presenting with quite the panache of another from my short-list of favorite reviewers (e.g. Brian Cooley (though not far from it ;)), but you are refreshingly and comparatively far more comprehensive. Your delivery is impeccable. I am supremely impressed. You just became my favorite car reviewer!!!

[@glenncoe1]

Thank you Alex for a great review. I was curious what your impression would be since I own one. I bought my 3.0 Q5 new in 2010 and it just rolled over to 100K miles. Only had the water pump replaced by Audi the first year and a small hiccup with the back-up camera. By the way, Audi threw in the Extended Warranty at no charge after the water pump replacement. Other than that, NO PROBLEMS! It does use a liter of oil between changes and brakes in front every 30K. Rear's are still OK but will be needing attention at next maintenance. I love my Q5. I still feel proud and privileged driving it down the roadway. Also cruises around the 80's on 5 in confidence. I have had my fair share of BMW's (wife likes 'em) and I have gotten to know all the service managers at our local dealership. I hope the next gen Q5 will be as nicely fit as this one. Lots of Hispanics are learning German I hear. Anyway, keep up the good work. You ought to have your own TV show!

[@FINISHLINE55]

Simply the best car review Utube I have reviewed. Very precise and detailed where it counts.

[@MrZatyro]

Definitely my fav car reviewer. You have an instinct for the exact info people want to know.

[@jorgeu111]

longer video this time. not a bad thing at all. accurate information all the time. keep them coming!

[@Wolvesq]

I cross shopped everything in this segment, and agree with Alex. The Q5 TDI is an all-around star. Great on the practicalities: comfort, space, mpg, quality, and the beautiful glass roof which helps back seaters soak in the views on road trips. And also great on, what gets too often ignored in this segment, the fun! The surge of low rpm power in the TDI is almost shocking at first. It's a rocket, and all that torque means you don't have to rev it hard to get to the real power. If you like V8 torque with hybrid mpg, you'll like the TDI. And the one upside of an older platform is that they've worked out most of the quirks, so it's about as reliable as a Q5 can get. Great review Alex, and not just because I agree with you.

[@jigneshanjara946]

I am big fan when it comes to reviewing car. I watch all of your videos. And refer to my friends.

[@drflmd]

Hi Alex, great video ! I'm going to pick up a used 2014 Q5 2.0 TFSI Progressiv with 51000 km on the odometer. Your video helped me choose this vehicule. Thanks !

[@fridayvan-defoe6987]

As always, thoroughly reviewed. No stone left unturned. Awesome job!

[@King_Kenny66]

Good review Alex. I kind of prefer the Toureg, at least on the outside. The TDI sure seems like a great choice when you look at the power it makes.

[@acchaladka]

I'm curious about the Touareg TDI v. Q5 TDI comparison as well, particularly the three-year used models. Seems like the Touareg especially could be a great value used if you need off-road, where the Q5 is a different class but has the crossover virtues.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

acchaladka They are similar in many ways. The Touareg in the USA sadly has lost most of its offroad ability in this generation so it is no more off-road capable than the Q5 but you do get a bigger SUV.

[@acchaladka]

+Alex - I had no idea that was the case. Had seen another review with a style of "two pals clowning around" which had led me to believe that the Touareg is an undiscovered gem off-road. Gosh - I'll have to spend an afternoon reading up on the different generations, such a pity. :)

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

acchaladka Apparently VW wanted to reduce the MSRP for the US market so in this generation they ditched the locking differentials, air suspension, and V8 diesel options and instead borrowed the Torsen limited slip center differential from the Audi Q5/Q7. This means that if you got both front or both rear wheels off the ground you would not be able to move. So while the European version is still very much a VW Grand Cherokee, the US version sadly is not.

[@whitestrips1]

Alex on Autos Please post a review of the 2015 X3 with the LCI thanks

[@JordsterMovies]

The description of AWD systems at about 20:00 is very informative. Thank you! Also, if you could... Please review the X3!!! Thanks for the review!

[@bird271828]

Alex, very nice review as always. Does this Audi have any collision avoidance systems like some Volvos? How about adaptive cruise control? Or any other similar features? Keep up the good work. I enjoy watching your reviews. I think your reviews are far better than any other reviews out there.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You can get adaptive cruise control with pre-collision warning but there is no parallel to Volvo's City Safety system at this time.

[@acchaladka]

I love the styling and would give it 9/10 for the classic good aging potential, but why do you want my opinion so badly? :) Thanks for the clarity and your fairness in discussing fuel savings, you anticipated my questions perfectly. People bug you about stuff like this because your reviews are deep and they matter to many!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Because you never know, I could like something that is really ugly and if nobody told me I wouldn't know.

[@aidand8195]

You're very professional Alex and an excellent reviewer. That being said maybe an intro might be something to consider? Sort of like a bunch of clips from previous videos of yours that make a fifteen second compilation? I really don't know since you're the professional and I'm not but just a thought :) Keep up the good work though and bring on more cars!

[@JaisielPena]

Great reviews. Your videos are just like a great tv show. I watch all vids!

[@restymangali]

I watch all your videos because it's not boring. Lots of useful information. Can you please review the 2014 hyundai santa fe sport turbo. Thanks a lot.

[@Hakltz]

When are you doing the 2017 Q5?? Been waiting and waiting....

[@CRVgarage]

Hi Alex Can u please review the X3 diesel from BMW. With the claimed 34mpg on the highway, its kind of attractive.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I'll see what I can do.

[@kipamore]

Suggestion: for one of the "how something works" videos, how about showing the way to calculate payback time on fuel economy. I do it by finding the cents-per-mile for two vehicles, finding the difference, then using that, but maybe you have something more elegant. Just a suggestion. Great videos as always.

[@charlese.websterjr.8373]

Also ALEX , do a segment on Reliability and Maintenance Cost. FOR 2014-15 DEISEL SUV.

[@haciendadad]

Very thorough review! 100% professional!

[@nejatugur4994]

Alex, your car reviews are great. Good job.

[@macjoe4448]

I love Q5.... had so many cars in my life... Q5 the best so far

[@wscanlon424]

In regards to saving money with the TDI you also have to factor in the higher resale value that a diesel usually demands.

[@tunintunin3417]

There is a slot behind the seat where you can stow the trunk hard cover.

[@johnadams1416]

This is a the best SUV car I have ever driven it wants you to enjoy your drive and you won't be disappointed.

[@dcpc08161992]

Q5 is nice :), but millions of us can't afford the $52K. Would you be so kind to do a review on the newly revised 2015 CRV that most of us can actual pick one up to park on our drive way without breaking the bank? You did the most informed and detailed car review I have seen. It's long but I always watch the whole video every time. Great job!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I am trying but they are not available yet, I am told it should be soon.

[@YoungMuffler]

Hi Alex. Have you reviewed then 2016 Mercedes GLC (we only got the GLC300 in Canada) and/compared it to the class? The TDI engine available for the Q5 is brilliant it’s so it lacks any of the modern safety aids (auto cruise, lank keep assist, auto breaking, etc) that the GLC seems to have as a new model. Really trust your opinion. Thanks!

[@Mercer1012]

Awesome review Alex. I am not a big fan of German cars but I like to keep up on the competition. What's the status on the Kia K900? Also, will you be planning on taking a peek at the Acura TLX? My father is interested in the car for his next one.

[@PCConditioning]

Alex- i just stumbled upon your channel. You do a great job! Keep up the good work. I like how you explain everything. -Paul Boston, MA

[@guycohenhanoch7721]

exellent reviewer.. finally i dont fall asleep in rviews.

[@Hakltz]

Great review as always. How about doing one on the 2015 Subaru Outback?

[@sanjayb0886]

Excellent review.. and very informative. Thank you. Curious to know what the 2016 will be like.

[@itssimontime8634]

you could get a decibel meter to have precise number comparison between cars, provided you do them more or less on the same road similar weather etc... noisy cabin are anoying for some

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I do use a dB meter in all cars. You'll see the score at the end of the video. The score out of 10 is more of a relative measure vs the others in the class.

[@itssimontime8634]

sweet stuff!!!!

[@michaeltorres2377]

Great review Alex, now that you have driving time in both the Q5 and NX, I hope you can do a video on the Audi Q5 with the 2.0 vs.the Lexus NX 2.0. Which CUV did you prefer for ride comfort, interior comfort, and all around drivability?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Without the pricing on the NX it is hard to say overall, but as far as the ride the NX worked best for me, the Audi was more comfortable and visibility in the NX was the best. I'll reserve overall judgement until I can drive a production version of the NX but I suspect that the Q5 will be my overall preference unless reliability is at the top of your list.

[@DanielBlaney]

Alex on Autos Definitely would like to see both of those cars compared to the MKC when you get your hands on one.

[@michaelragheb5261]

Hey alex. Great job really. Just a quick question, which one should i buy the 2015 q5 TDI or the benz m class 2015 350 Diesel? Mainly what i am concerned with would be the mechanical issues of both engines and the durability if i am buying the car used and planning to keep it for a long time? Thank you

[@Only1DrewN]

I love the dedication you have to your videos Alex. I'm a new subscriber to you and I was looking through your videos and found you haven't reviewed or at least video reviewed A Honda Cr-V 2012-present or a new Toyota Highlander Hybrid. I'm very interested in getting your perspectives on this since my parents have a Cr-V and I drive it occasionally and just find it to be eh. We live in NY and want to have an SUV but with good gas mileage as the Cr-V has been getting about 20 mpg and I wanted to see your perspective on this vehicle. They have been thinking of switching to the Highlander Hybrid for decent feul eco + SUV for bad weather. Any advice? Also will you be reviewing any of these 2 SUVs? Thanks a lot!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I included a little of the Highlander Hybrid in the regular Highlander review. The sales volume on the hybrid is kind of low (Toyota expects this) so I probably won't have a stand alone review of it for a while. The CR-V however has been kind of an oversight and I hope to have that in for a review (the refreshed 2015 model) in about a month.

[@Only1DrewN]

Alex on Autos Thanks a lot Alex. I forgot about the refreshed CR-V Do you know when it will be coming to dealerships? If it's better overall than the current generation we might just go with that

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Only1DrewN It should be soon. I believe 1-2 months. It has a lightly refreshed interior and the engine and transmission out of the Accord which should seriously improve fuel economy.

[@Only1DrewN]

I had heard later in 2015 but could never get an official date. Thanks so much Alex

[@sureshsubramaniam3431]

alex... really appreciate your efforts.. u give a very detailed review..

[@rwutube]

Alex ... what are your thoughts on the change in production from Germany to Mexico in 2016? Does quality control worry you?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Not really, in general car companies reliability stems more from design and systems process than where the car is built. The suppliers are remaining the same initially and that has a huge impact as well. Since VW is the parent company, they are already familiar with manufacturing south of the border. And lastly of course Audi usually places just at or just below average in reliability (in 2014 they were just above Volvo and Chrysler) so it's not like they are currently ranking higher than companies like Chrysler that do a great deal of manufacturing in Mexico already.

[@brucec43]

+Alex on Autos They certainly are for 2015. CR has Audi at 3rd and Chrysler lines bringing up the bottom of the pack.

[@jillhagner834]

This is a great review! I’m looking at a used 2015 TDI S-line with 138k miles. The car is clean, drives well and would be used for a commuter car to travel 90-100 miles per day. I currently drive a Toyota FJ Cruiser with 140k+ miles and know it would easily go for hundreds of thousands of miles more without much failure. What I don’t know much about is the longevity and dependability of Audis. The Audi would almost double my current MPGs. Would you consider a used 2015 with the above specs as a daily? What kind of realistic types of repairs should I expect? While it’s not a Toyota, I’ve heard good things about the TDI engines in general. Any input would be greatly appreciated!

[@Andron-007]

My FJ cruiser failef at 200k with blown headgasket.I just purchased 2014 Q5 TDI and it awesome.

[@zorrobheem164]

Excellent review. However you command over language and way of speaking just amazes me. Very few have this gift.

[@VioletGiraffe]

I'm surprised to find myself contradicting Alex (whose attention to details is admirable), but I'm pretty sure it's FALSE that if one axle has no friction with the ground a torsen-equipped car will not be able to move. This is contrary to how torsen work as it's mechanically impossible for one of the two torsen's output shafts to remain stationary while the other one spins. And it is this anti-lockup quality that earned the Quattro all-wheel drive system its iconic status and a large fan following. And by the way, it's not an uncommon situation for one axle to lose grip entirely. This is how I got stuck in shallow sand in my FWD Audi A4, and I can imagine the same happening in snowy or icy situations.

[@wwtom111]

Hi Alex, thanks very much for the detailed analysis. Do you have any plan to compare the X5 and new 2014 ML 400? Or just a review on ML 400, since you already posted the X5 review.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I hope so but it may be a while. The next Mercedes will be a C400 in October.

[@Ont785]

Kind of weird to respond to an eight year old video, but I’m amazed how poor the towing capacity is for this engine. I was considering this as a used vehicle for towing, but it pales in comparison to the 320 CDI… I know this is a time machine request, but why is it that Mercedes can pull 7700 pounds, and this thing is stuck around 4400?

[@cadsux]

Do you have any tips on owning vehicles with turbo engines? I recently purchased a certified used 2010 Mazda CX7 equipped with a 2.3L 4 cyl turbo engine. The Owner's manual indicates the turbo engine should idle for at least 30 seconds prior to shutoff. Also, upon starting the engine, do not rev the engine hard (but many car video reviews of turbo equipped vehicles show hard reving for the exhaust note!). I've been read many horror stories of engine failure from other CX7 owners. I'm feeling a bit of buyers remorse do to that potential issue, and the 14 mpg in combined driving. But the CX7 does give me a smile everytime I drive it, and as you've said before, that's what really counts. Thanks again.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

That is really it. Let the engine idle for a while before turning it off, be gentle with any engine until it is warm (especially if you live in a cold climate.) You can send your engine oil out for analysis to see how the engine is wearing and you may want to consider full synthetic oils.

[@andychen7818]

Please do a review for the Corvette Stingray.

[@lmaolmaox]

Does the sunroof come standard on all models?

[@ItsRick]

When doing the value comparisons, you should include resale value. If you include resale value, the TDI should wind up being the better value if you keep it for a few years.

[@acchaladka]

Probably so - resale value was a decision factor for me and I have a TDI - but it's independent of car value per se. I would put purchase + interest costs + expected operating costs for 100,000 miles in as the factors in trying to figure value. You could also re-sell your car at 50K, 100 or 200K, and you'd have very different values as well.

[@watsash]

Can you please do a review of glk250?

[@michaelcrouch4248]

Excellent and very thorough review!

[@visheshpaul]

Excellent review. Just checked out 2015 2.0 T version. loved it. But is it worth buying the 2015 model now, as the new one might be coming out next year.. does that mean that 2015 will depreciate more than normal??? thanks.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Depreciation is likely to remain the same, but you may get a better deal on a 2015 after the 2016 is released.

[@visheshpaul]

Alex on Autos Thanks Alex...I forgot to mention (you may already know) that Audi is coming out with the 2nd generation in 2016, which is revamped. That's why I was wondering if the depreciation for 2015 will be more as it will be a older generation car...

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Vishesh Paul I was taking the new model into account. With the previous Audi redesigns on other models in mind this hasn't been an issue.

[@visheshpaul]

Alex on Autos Great. You have been very helpful. really appreciate it...

[@Trinity00233]

I will rate the Q5 an 8 out of 10 for design. That said it is a neat and simple design and quite tasteful

[@bensullivan5414]

Can you review the Lincoln MKC?

[@RyanKather]

Alex on Autos I second this, please review the MKC. I didn't see it in your list of upcoming reviews.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I'm not sure when I'll be able to have it, but it is tops on my list.

[@NOT_cringe_kay32]

Also what year did Audi begin putting led lights on side mirrors? And what year did Audi incorporate the feature not sure what it’s called but when stopped the engine idles really low when shopped? And also what model year did the trunk become remote? Thanks

[@NOT_cringe_kay32]

Re:The Q5

[@luc7976]

One correction. The Lexus NX has towing capacity of 2000 for 200t and 1500 lbs for 300h with the luxury package.

[@Asmodeius]

Alex, i'm looking to buy either audi q5 diesel or lexus rx 350. I really like the Audi, but people keep on scaring me regarding it's maintenance. Is it really that much more expensive over lexus? i looked up pars, they are pretty much the same price in US. If servicing it not in dealership, will it be as reliable as lexus? 100-200$ up or down is not an issue for me, but if lexus costs 200 for brake pads change and audit 700$, that's way too big and yet unjustified difference, considering initial cost of car and parts are relatively the same price. Help me decide. Also i do drive a lot, about 20-25k miles a year due to work.

[@stibellious]

very interesting review , your videos are developing faster than Hyundai ! lol , thanks for the attention to practical details .. you love your job and you're excelling at it , thumbs up !

[@Audi59]

very good , like your comparison numbers ....keep up the good work.

[@xomoc8]

Alex, you tha man. Keep on keepin on

[@danricciardo6847]

I am wondering if your actual workplace and job is related to automotive industry by any means?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Yes and no. I do some fleet consulting work but most of my "day job" couldn't be farther from the auto world.

[@vangiefonseca7664]

Hi Alex, if you would chose between:Audi Q5, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Mercedes GLC SUV and Volvo XC60 which would you choose.Can you say, which is the better of the 4?I live in South Africa.I currently drive a Land Rover 2013 Free Lander - a mother of 2 children under 6, looking to trade in my car for a new vehicle.I am stuck - any advice.One main request would be --- living in South Africa, with high crime, I would need a vehicle that can "climb the pavement / curb" incase of danger.Not sure if you can give me some advise.Thank you.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

+Vangie Fonseca That's a hard one to say, I would venture that the Mercedes, Land Rover or Volvo would be the better options but you may even want to look at something like a Jeep Grand Cherokee.

[@DavidDLee]

Hey Alex, I wonder what is the name of the road which is shown on the video, where you take all these cars on?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It starts on Alma Bridge Road then goes to Aldercroft Heights, Old Santa Cruz Highway, Summit Road and filming usually ends on Soquel San Jose Road.

[@charlese.websterjr.8373]

Not Bad Alex, kind of winded, but much Detailed. Thanks.

[@francisq4446]

Can you review 2015 audi q7 tdi?

[@Wrist-rolls]

I'm in the market for a new car and of course a redesign is net year!

[@yippie6862]

Would like to know how the Q5 compares to the VW Touareg Diesel? Are they both the same or are they built on different platforms?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The Touareg is built on the VW/Audi's larger platform which is the Audi Q7, VW Touareg and Porsche Cayenne and likely the upcoming Bentley SUV. It is a dedicated SUV/Crossover platform. The Q5 is based on Audi's sedan platform and is more closely related to the A4, A5, A6, A7 and A8.

[@yippie6862]

Alex on Autos Thanks Alex! Your car reviews are the most informative and the best around.

[@tuolumne9]

Alex is right in everything sans the Q7...that is based on the last generation platform the Touraeg/Cayenne used...the next generation Q7 that is right around the corner will again share a platform with the current Touraeg/Cayenne

[@greghouse3434]

DO NOT BUY A TOUAREG!! I had one for 1 year..although it is a beast the tires wear out every 20k and the steering wheel shakes. VW knows this a problem but do not know how to fix it. It was at the dealership every month and nobody knew how to fix it. VW Corporate never got back to me..never again!

[@yippie6862]

I have had mine for 1 year now and have had zero problems. Sounds like you got an unlucky lemon.

[@allenfsanchez9572]

wow, great review, very methodical!

[@shaozechen]

Thanks for the review! very helpful!

[@A_guan]

Alex could you review the audi q7? I haven't seen any good ones online

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I am working on that, I think I should be able to get my hands on one before December.

[@stephanematis]

Nice review, shame about the hefty price.

[@chingerelganzorig9284]

nice work alex thanks

[@Peppermint1]

I drove the Q5 for about two years. The seats were hard and uncomfortable on long drives, and the stiff suspension didn't helped. By the way, I kicked my head too many times on that trunk hard cover, right on my forehead.

[@joeperry9589]

Your comment about the drive system is just not true. Lots of off-road tests have shown the Q5 is more capable than the bmw, merc, and Volvo systems in wheel hang scenarios. Otherwise good review

[@JW77]

What are the slots on the right hand side of the shifter?

[@TheMountainGarden]

They are coin holders.

[@zackariahgill1263]

very cool vid Subed :)

[@Andreshponton]

Very Nice review, one of my favorites vehicules! I love diesels

[@billigerfusel]

That clean diesel logo didn't age well

[@Gladiator1972]

how tall are you?

[@aronma2765]

He is 6 feet. He mentions it in some videos.

[@DavidVines]

You may not be saving money on the TDI but you aren't loosing money if keep it 100k miles and your carbon foot print will be less as well as help reduce our oil dependency. The money you save on gas will can be used to pay the loan faster. All valid excuses to justify buying a quattro.

[@chnzwh01]

You forgot to mention the fact that there's EDL on the Q5

[@СардарНурабаев-о1б]

AUDI Q5 класная машина я очен хочу купить эту машину но денги нужны

[@ChristopherWalkenActor]

a++++

[@robfsociety4670]

***** said TDI is faster than X3 35i

[@addaboyroy]

how bout being cleaner for the earth

[@TheMr3742]

I want Alex on me

[@legambaz]

The back of the Q5 looks like a Hyena's face and it's butt all lump together. Very ugly. interior design is old school German, while boring, it's also dark and doesn't inspire anything. I've never driven one, maybe it can be fun to drive, but it's design alone is enough to drive me away.

[@bvedant]

Urea? As in pee-pee?