The Audi Q5 I (8R), particularly the facelifted model produced from 2012 to 2017, represented Audi’s entry into the burgeoning luxury compact SUV segment. The 2.0 TFSI (220 Hp) quattro Tiptronic variant, introduced in 2013, occupied a significant middle ground within the Q5 lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and standard features. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a premium SUV experience with the convenience of an automatic transmission and the added security of Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. It was positioned above the base 2.0 TFSI models and below the more powerful 3.0 TFSI and SQ5 variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Q5 |
| Generation | Q5 I (8R, facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TFSI (220 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | ULEV 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 220 Hp @ 4450-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EA888 / CPMB |
| Engine displacement | 1984 cm3 (121.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1855 kg (4089.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1560 l (55.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1996 kg (4400.43 lbs.) |
| Length | 4639 mm (182.64 in.) |
| Width | 1898 mm (74.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2089 mm (82.24 in.) |
| Height | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2807 mm (110.51 in.) |
| Front track | 1617 mm (63.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1614 mm (63.54 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 300 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18; 235/55 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic lies the EA888 engine, specifically the CPMB variant. This 1.984-liter (121.07 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 220 horsepower at 4450-6000 rpm and 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) of torque from as low as 1500 rpm. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a staple of Audi’s premium offerings, provides smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector lever. The quattro all-wheel-drive system employs a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Q5 offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the higher-powered variants, the 220 hp engine provides adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7 seconds. The Tiptronic transmission is well-tuned, offering seamless shifts and contributing to a relaxed cruising experience. Compared to the 6-speed manual transmission available on some Q5 models, the Tiptronic prioritizes convenience and ease of use over outright driver engagement. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip and stability, particularly in inclement weather. The gear ratios are optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency, with the eighth gear providing a comfortable highway cruising speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Q5 typically came standard with features such as leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, and Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system with a central display screen. Optional extras included navigation, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and a premium sound system. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the model year and regional market, but generally offered packages that bundled popular options together. The interior design was characterized by Audi’s signature attention to detail and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Q5’s chassis features a sophisticated suspension setup designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes coil springs and an independent multi-link design, while the rear suspension employs an independent trapezoidal lever setup with coil springs. Both ends are equipped with transverse stabilizers to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The Q5 is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control as standard safety features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and capable all-wheel-drive system. Fuel economy was considered reasonable for its class, averaging around 23.1 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 3.0 TFSI Q5, the 2.0 TFSI offered a more affordable entry point into the Q5 range, albeit with less power. The 2.0 TDI diesel variant, popular in Europe, provided even better fuel economy but lacked the responsiveness of the gasoline engine. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional oil consumption.
Legacy
The Audi Q5 I (8R) established Audi as a major player in the luxury compact SUV segment. The 2.0 TFSI quattro Tiptronic variant remains a popular choice on the used car market, offering a compelling combination of practicality, luxury, and performance. The EA888 engine, in its various iterations, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of non-premium brands, the Q5’s build quality and long-term reliability generally justify the expense for many buyers. The model continues to be sought after by those looking for a well-rounded and sophisticated SUV experience.
