2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The very first Audi Q5 that rolled off the assembly line landed in dealerships in 2007. Audi took the idea of a traditional SUV and added new features that made it handle and feel more like a standard car. This crossover vehicle appeared in several different models before earning the look it now has today. Though the company initially planned to release the Q5 as a hybrid, problems with the original battery led to the company holding off on those plans. The hybrid finally made its way to the market in 2011, and the new 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid looks similar to that model.

What's New for 2016

Noting the strength of the market and the popularity of the 2015 model, Audi made no significant changes to the 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid. It comes in just one trim option and one engine package though Audi does offer ample opportunities for customizing the exterior with different paint colors and changing the interior as well. There are also different wheels and wood inlays available, and shoppers can purchase packages that change the interior as well.
 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid – The Pros

Luxury Package

The 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid now comes in a luxury package option, which adds to the cost of the base model. This package comes with power adjustable seats that ventilation that keeps drivers feeling cool. It also uses real leather imported from Milan on the seats and interior elements.

Sports Interior Package

Those who spend a lot of time in their cars and those who like sports cars will love the sport interior package. Audi will replace the front seats with curved seats like those found in sports and race cars. The package also includes a more responsive steering wheel, power seats, black fabric decorations and shift paddles.

Exclusive Package

The exclusive package is a new package that is only available on the 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid. This package uses real leather from Nappa that the manufacturer places on the steering wheel, the doors and other parts of the interior. It also uses a soft white inlay that complements the black interior beautifully.

Air Bags and Detection System

All Q5 Hybrids now come with an airbag detection system that checks the weight of each seat to determine when to deploy an airbag. The driver is protected with both front and side airbags. Passengers also receive protection from side and head air bags.

Dependable Braking System

The anti-locking brake system that comes on the 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid allows drivers to protect themselves from crashes. The system works with the brakes and wheels to keep the car from skidding and crashing into other cars. The ABS also works with the electronic stability control before and during skids.

Power Interior Features

The automatic climate control in this crossover has three different zones. Passengers in the backseat can have a different temperature than those in the front seat. It also comes with a power sunroof, power door locks and vanity mirrors that come on automatically.

Audi Connect System

A free six months’ subscription to Audi Connect comes with all purchases of a brand new 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid. This system works with Google Maps and other websites to help drivers find directions, get help during accidents and find information online. Drivers will also receive a free satellite radio subscription that works with that system.

Automatic Sensors

Automatic sensors on the exterior of the car identify low light conditions and periods of rain. When the car detects the presence of rain, it will automatically turn on the windshield wipers. It will also detect low light conditions and turn on the headlights.

Audi Advanced Key

Drivers can use the included Audi Advanced Key to completely control the 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid. This key allows drivers to automatically unlock car doors and open those doors without using the key. They can also use that key to start or stop the engine.

Battery Life

The lithium ion battery that comes on this model weighs less than 80 pounds. Audi offers a seven-year warranty on the battery too. Between battery and fuel power, it can get more than 33 mpg.  

Reasons Not to Buy a 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid – The Cons

Limited Power

The best hybrid vehicles are those that can go miles and last for hours on a single charge. Those looking at the 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid may find that it doesn't have the power they want. Its battery power lasts less than the batteries on similar models do.

Adequate Safety Ratings

Safety ratings for the Q5 Hybrid are adequate but not great. It received good reviews, but it scored less than five stars regarding front crashes and rollovers. Luxury crossover SUVs from other manufacturers received higher ratings.

Lacking Comfort

In comparison to other luxury SUVs, the comfort of the 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid ranked lower. BMW and other manufacturers offer adjustable seats and lumbar support. While the Hybrid seats are somewhat comfortable, the seats do not adjust or provide as much back support.

How it Stacks up to the Competition

The 2016 Audi Q5 Hybrid is unique because it's a hybrid that uses both fuel and electricity. One of the only other cars of this type currently available is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. As the Toyota model is larger in size, many will find that they can better handle the Q5 when driving in crowded cities and when going on off-road trips. Another competitor is the RX from Lexus. Though both crossover SUVs are more luxurious in design, the Audi Q5 costs much less and boasts more seating room too.

Conclusion

Buying a new crossover SUV is often hard, and the decision becomes, even more, difficult when shoppers look for hybrid vehicles. The Audi Q5 Hybrid ranks as one of the best of those hybrid vehicles today. It has a great looking body, a dependable transmission, lots of standard features and a price tag less than what competitors charge.