Audi Q5 hybrid range, MPG, CO2 & charging
Thanks to a mid-life update that included a larger battery, the plug-in hybrid Q5 can now cover well over 30 miles on electric power and offers competitive fuel-economy figures
| Fuel economy | CO2 emissions | Electric range | Wallbox charge time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 166-188mpg | 35-41g/km | 37 miles | 2hrs 30mins (7.4kW) |
The plug-in hybrid Audi Q5's 37-mile official electric range is on par with the similarly electrified BMW X3 xDrive30e, Jaguar F-Pace P400e and Mercedes GLC 300 e – although the Lexus NX 450h+, and recently updated Volvo XC60 Recharge can cover close to 50 miles on a charge.
When we tested the plug-in Q5, we ran it until the battery was flat and zeroed the car's trip computer to see the 'worst-case' fuel consumption. The Audi returned just 30mpg, much less than the 55mpg we achieved in similar circumstances in the Lexus NX 450h+. If you plan on driving long distances without charging, the NX would be the more efficient option.
Audi Q5 hybrid range
The regular and Sportback Q5 TFSI e models get a 17.9kWh (14.4kWh useable) battery, giving it an electric range of up to 37 miles. While you can travel on electric power up to motorway speeds, that'll eat into the battery's reserves faster, so you should stick to around-town driving to maximise your electric range. Specifying larger alloy wheels can also reduce the car's maximum range, and cold weather reduces what's possible, too, so factor in shorter zero-emissions running distance in winter.
Charge time
The Audi's 17.9kWh (14.4kWh useable) battery will charge up in two-and-a-half hours from a standard 7.4kW home wallbox, while using a three-pin domestic socket will do the job in some eight hours. Cables for Type 2 wallboxes, public chargers, and your standard domestic socket are included as standard. It's a shame there's no dedicated cable storage – they take up a considerable chunk of boot space if you want to carry them with you.
The Type 2 socket is located on the rear passenger-side wing of the car and pops open with a push-release to reveal the socket. There's also a button to turn timed charging on or off and another to release the cable (which will only work if you've unlocked the car). The timed charging parameters allow you to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs if you have them. You set it up using the screen in the car or via a phone app. The app lets you pre-set the cabin temperature, provided the vehicle is connected to a charger. This is a common feature on electric cars and is perfect for cooling the interior during hot summer days, or heating the car and de-icing the windows in winter before setting off for work in the morning.