Audi Q5 hybrid range, MPG, CO2 & charging

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 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 then zeroed the car’s trip computer to see what the 'worst-case' fuel consumption would be. The Audi returned 30mpg and seemed more reluctant to run on electric drive than other plug-in hybrid SUVs we’ve previously tested, even at low speeds. This could be something to factor in if you plan to do more long journeys in the Q5 TFSI e without visiting any chargers.

Audi Q5 hybrid range

Both the regular and Sportback Q5 TFSI e models get a 17.9kWh battery, which Audi added as part of the 2021 update, increasing electric range from just over 25 miles previously up to 37 miles now. 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 if you want to maximise your zero-emissions miles. 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 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 both Type 2 wallboxes and public chargers, as well as for your everyday domestic socket, are included as standard. It’s just a shame there’s no dedicated cable storage – they take up a huge 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 simply pops open with a push-release to reveal the socket complete with 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 are there to allow you to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs if you have them, and can be set via the screen in the car or via a phone app. The app also allows you to pre-set the cabin temperature provided the car is plugged in; a common feature on electric cars and particularly great in winter as you can have the car warm up and de-ice itself ready for when you set off. It’s also welcome for the summer months, cooling the car’s interior to a more comfortable temperature before your trip.