2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI review (video)

Audi has long been a stalwart in the premium SUV market, known for combining luxury, cutting-edge technology, and powertrain refinement in a stylish package. The 2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI is no exception.

However, while it undoubtedly has many strengths, there are some weaknesses you ought to know about before signing the dotted line. In this review we’ll go over everything you need to know.

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: Specifications

Engine: 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder
Output: 120kW@3250-4200rpm / 370Nm@1500-3000rpm
Gearbox: Seven-speed dual-clutch auto
Drive type: Front-wheel drive
Wheels: F & R: 20×8.0, 255/45
ANCAP: Five stars
Tare weight: 1955kg
Power-to-weight: 16.29:1 (kg:kW)
Official consumption: 4.8L/100km
Our consumption: 5.5L/100km
Fuel tank/Fuel type: 70L/Diesel

Power efficiency: 25.0kW:L/100km
0-60km/h: 4.08 seconds*
0-100km/h: 9.23 seconds*
60-110km/h: 6.67 seconds*
1/4 mile: 16.64 seconds at 138.5km/h*
Max acceleration: 0.524g*
100-0km/h braking: 37.42m in 2.92 seconds*
Max deceleration: -1.214g*
Decibel at idle: 46*
Peak decibel at 60-100km/h: 74*
Starting price: $68,350

*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: How much does it cost?

The test vehicle we have here is actually an MY22 (model year) special edition called, creatively, the Limited Edition. Some of these might still be hanging around in showrooms around the country and available as a new vehicle. However, we’ll try not to focus too much on the Limited Edition and instead look at the Q5 35 TDI in general.

Prices started from $68,350 for the Limited Edition, representing superb value when stacked up against some of the equivalent German rivals. But if you can’t find one, Audi Australia offers the regular Q5 35 TDI in standard trim from $67,900, and in Dynamic Black trim from $71, 250. All feature an identical powertrain and running gear, just with different wheels and features.

Either way, the Q5 35 TDI remains a good value proposition against much of its competition – it’s even priced below the 2.2D diesel Genesis GV70 (from $74,900). That’s probably because there is an all-new generation just around the corner. See our 2025 Q5 news story here for more, including our spy video from the Nurburgring.

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: Interior & packaging

Let’s start with what Audi does best – the interior. Stepping into the Q5 is like entering a refined sanctuary of German luxury. Soft-touch materials, very high-quality (and thick) leather, and impeccable fit and finish are the order of the day. The cabin feels very sturdy and well-constructed, as is typical of Audi products.

The front seats are comfortable and somewhat supportive, ensuring you’re in good stead for long drives. Drivers will be able to find the perfect position as well thanks to a wide range of adjustment from the seat and steering column. It doesn’t feel that high from the ground unless you raise the seat right up. Take that as a good or bad thing, depending on what you’re after.

The Limited Edition misses out on Audi’s Virtual Cockpit fully digital instrument cluster. Instead, this showcases a 7.0-inch digital screen within two mechanical gauges. There are various display options to toggle through but it’s not as flashy or as advanced as some rival systems – including Audi’s own.

Likewise, the 10.1-inch main MMI touch-scree interface isn’t a standout attraction against its competition. The size is pretty small by today’s standards and it doesn’t do anything particularly special – not even a surround-view camera. Audi does put together very crisp graphics and interface functionality though, with easy-to-understand widget blocks for all of the main applications.

The system offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, as well as digital radio and in-built sat-nav as standard. This Limited Edition features an eight-speaker sound system, as featured in the standard 35 TDI and Dynamic Black variant.

Passengers will enjoy the free and open cabin environment and layout, with plenty of headroom and legroom in the front. Rear passenger space is good for its class, but the large driveline tunnel in the middle (not needed for this FWD variant) does take up a lot of room compared with some rivals.

Cargo space is adequate for daily use but it doesn’t stand out in the segment. If you’re looking for the absolute maximum volume you might need to explore some alternatives. This example presents 520L, down from around 550L or more in most rivals, and it opens up to 1520L with the rear seats folded (most rivals offer around 1600L).

You can fold down the rear seats from tabs on the sidewall, which is great to see, and there is a space-saver spare wheel under the floor while some rivals use run-flat tyres or come packaged with a tyre repair kit instead. So that’s where some of the space is subtracted.

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: Powertrain & handling

Under the hood, the Q5 35 TDI houses a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine delivering a modest 120kW 370Nm. On paper, these figures may appear quite dreary, but at the time of its launch (in 2022), Audi Australia described this package as “the most fuel-efficient diesel SUV” on the Australian market.

With an official fuel consumption average of just 4.8L/100km, it sure is very frugal. Pair that with a 70-litre fuel tank and you’ve got yourself a theoretical average range of 1458km. Yes, 1458km. Read that again. Imagine not having to fill up for like, three or four weeks, depending on your driving habits. It’s insane.

Since its launch Mazda has swooped in with its new CX-60, which is offered with a 3.3-litre turbo-diesel inline-six ‘D50e’ package that presents an official rate of 4.9L/100km (AWD). But in terms of its key European rivals, the BMW X3 xDrive20d (AWD) is rated at 5.9L/100km, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 (no diesel available, at time of writing) with its petrol four-cylinder is rated at 7.7L/100km, and the Genesis GV70 2.2D (AWD) is rated at 7.8L/100km.

While the engine is undoubtedly economical, it provides adequate power for everyday driving scenarios. It might not satisfy those looking for brisk acceleration and spirited performance, though, with a 0-100km/h claim of 9.0 seconds – our Vbox returned a time of 9.23 seconds. Progression off the mark is smooth and urgent enough, but it’s the top end where it starts to run out of puff. Again, its main focus is economy. Audi does offer much more powerful options in the Q5 lineup if that’s what you’re after.

The Q5 feels very composed and at home cruising on the highway rather than tackling twisty mountain roads. With a tare weight of 1955kg, it is one of the heaviest vehicles in its class. And that’s despite doing without quattro all-wheel drive. Tipping it into a corner results in complete stability but not all that much enthusiasm. It’ll do it, even if you’re really giving it a shove, but there isn’t much engagement – or encouragement – coming back through the steering wheel or from the platform.

The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission shifts seamlessly and precisely, often up-shifting early and relying on the 370Nm torque wave. This can lead to a slight delay in power delivery if you suddenly need to dart ahead or want to overtake; it needs to shift back down again.

Refinement is exceptional. And this engine is incredibly quiet, let alone for a diesel four-cylinder (diesel six-cylinders and V8s are usually more harmonious and emit less clatter, in our experience). During our tests the engine recorded an average idle reading of 46 decibels, and just 74 decibels during full-throttle 60-110km/h acceleration. That is amazingly low for any engine type, let alone a diesel. This means the driving experience is very peaceful and refined.

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: Key attractions/reasons to buy

The Q5’s cabin remains one of its standout features. Audi’s dedication to craftsmanship and quality materials is evident throughout, creating a genuinely luxurious environment, even though it is starting to age in this current generation in terms of visible technology.

For those prioritising fuel efficiency, this 35 TDI diesel powertrain delivers exceptional real-world economy. We averaged just 5.5L/100km during our week of driving, and that included performance testing. The 1400km-plus theoretical range makes it ideal for busy families that travel some distance between work and dropping the kids off at school.

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: Key considerations before you buy

Obviously the Q5 35 TDI’s performance may fall short of the expectations of those seeking a more dynamic and sporty driving experience from their German luxury SUV. However, the fuel efficiency benefits are very evident here so if you prefer performance over economy, check out some of the higher-up variants such as the 40 TDI (150kW/400Nm), or go for the full hog S5 TDI (251kW/700Nm).

Lastly, it does lack some of the more advanced technologies that are available on most rivals and Audi’s latest models. Including some important safety features.

2023 Audi Q5 35 TDI: Video