Revised exterior styling.Larger touchscreen with a new infotainment system.More powerful four-cylinder engine.
PROS Quiet, comfortable cabin features top-notch interior craftsmanship Standard all-wheel drive Wide array of technology options
CONS Limited space for luggage behind rear seats
The 2021 Audi Q5 crossover puts a new face on a best-selling formula that doesn’t show signs of getting old.
PROS Chiseled looks Great base engine… …compelling performance engine too Good standard safety features Good touchscreen
CONS Interior is a little bland Plug-in hybrid fizzled for us Not exactly revolutionary Gets expensive in a hurry
Pros Feels very well-built Lots of space for four Comfortable and quiet
Cons Not exciting to drive Costly optional packs Rear middle seat uncomfortable
PROS PHEV drivetrain enables limited electric running at speeds up to 135km/h Excellent blend of everyday comfort, refinement and performance 3500kg towing capacity It shares its drivetrain with the Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid
CONS PHEV drivetrain adds handsomely to the weight Li-ion battery robs 70L of boot space Lacks the traditional hardened performance focus for which Volkswagen R models are renowned
“A curious mix of speed and efficiency with a big dollop of comfort. It's just not especially fun ”
PROS Comfy, plush, quick and a company car bargain
CONS Not as nimble as a Cayenne
The VW Touareg R is comfortable, well-equipped and effortless to drive, but not sharp or engaging enough to be considered a true sports SUV. That leaves it in somewhat of a no man’s land. Put simply, those looking for a fast yet relatively frugal sports SUV would be better served by the similarly priced Porsche Cayenne e-Hybrid, while those wanting a luxurious and well-rounded plug-in hybrid luxury SUV would be better off with the BMW X5 xDrive45e.
PROS Well-equipped Spacious inside for up to five people Very quiet in electric mode
CONS Cheap-feeling interior Fussy infotainment system Not very exciting to drive
