The latest-generation Audi Q5 has officially arrived in Malaysia, bringing a sharper design direction, upgraded digital architecture and a broader split in character across two variants. Prices start from RM352,990 for the Q5 Advanced, while the more expressive Q5 Sportback S line commands RM421,990.
Crucially, this isn’t just a routine model refresh. The third-generation Q5 represents Audi’s recalibration of its combustion-engine SUV strategy—pairing familiar TFSI performance with a more software-defined cabin and a clearer differentiation between lifestyle-focused variants.
Underpinning the new Q5 is Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), a next-generation architecture designed specifically for internal combustion models. While the industry pivots towards electrification, Audi is doubling down on making ICE platforms more efficient, more connected, and more refined—rather than phasing them out prematurely. In markets like Malaysia, where electrification adoption is still uneven, that strategy remains highly relevant.
Visually, the split between the two variants is more pronounced than before. The Q5 Advanced leans into understated luxury, with cleaner surfacing, 19-inch aero wheels and a more restrained presence suited to buyers prioritising comfort and daily usability. In contrast, the Q5 Sportback S line adopts a coupe-SUV silhouette with a sloping roofline, larger 20-inch wheels and more aggressive detailing, clearly targeting style-conscious buyers who want a more dynamic aesthetic.
Both variants are powered by a 2.0-litre TFSI engine paired to a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, but output differs significantly. The Q5 Advanced produces 199PS, delivering a smooth and composed drive, while the Sportback S line steps things up to 272PS, backed by a sportier suspension tune and the added confidence of quattro all-wheel drive. The result is a clear separation in driving character—one tuned for refinement, the other for engagement.
Lighting technology is another area where Audi continues to push boundaries. The Matrix LED headlights don’t just improve visibility—they actively adapt to traffic conditions, masking sections of the beam to avoid dazzling other drivers. Digital light signatures and animated welcome sequences add a layer of theatre, while the Sportback S line introduces a projection brake light system designed to improve rearward visibility in sudden braking situations.
Inside, the Q5 shifts decisively towards a digital-first experience. A curved 14.5-inch OLED MMI display anchors the dashboard, complemented by an 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus. The interface is faster, more intuitive, and now integrates AI-powered voice control via ChatGPT, enabling more natural interaction with vehicle functions. It’s a subtle but important shift—from command-based inputs to conversational usability.
Material execution and cabin ambience differ between variants as well. The Q5 Advanced adopts a calmer, more family-oriented layout with Lime Sediment inlays and comfort-focused seating, while the Sportback S line introduces Carbon Micro Twill trims, a flat-bottom steering wheel and sport seats with enhanced bolstering. Ventilated seats in the Sportback are a particularly relevant addition for Malaysia’s climate.
Practicality hasn’t been sacrificed in the pursuit of design. The Q5 Advanced offers up to 520 litres of boot space (expanding to 1,473 litres), while the Sportback manages 515 litres despite its coupe profile. Features like hands-free tailgate access and multiple high-output USB-C ports—capable of charging laptops—highlight how Audi is aligning everyday usability with modern digital lifestyles.
On the safety front, both variants come equipped with a full suite of ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and a 360-degree camera system. Audi Pre Sense adds a predictive safety layer, preparing the vehicle for potential impacts before they occur—an increasingly standard expectation in this segment.
Ownership has also been structured to reduce friction. The package includes a two-year unlimited mileage warranty, extendable to five years via the Audi Assurance Package, alongside complimentary maintenance and roadside assistance.
In a segment now crowded with electrified newcomers, the new Q5 makes a compelling case for the continued evolution of combustion-powered premium SUVs. Rather than chasing headline-grabbing EV metrics, Audi is refining the fundamentals—design, usability, and driving experience—while quietly integrating next-gen digital capabilities. For many Malaysian buyers, that balance may still be the sweet spot.
