We’re spending time with the Audi Q5 to get to know it on a deeper level. As a leading luxury SUV, it offers plenty of perks, with a few unexpected surprises. See what makes the 2022 Audi Q5 stand out against the competition. 

Five surprising 2022 Audi Q5 features 

The 2022 Audi Q5 proudly wears four rings to make it pop against the competition. It offers premium comfort and convenience features to battle rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3. It has a strong build quality and an engaging performance. 

However, it’s not perfect and could use more polish to stand out against the competition. But it has a lot of potential to be the ideal option for daily commutes and light adventuring. Check out a few surprising features. 

1. The Audi Q5 has an odd layout 

It took us a while to figure out where the wireless phone charging pad is in the 2022 Audi Q5. It’s on a sliding tray that can go under the lid of the center console or cover the front cup holders. You can’t slide it open if the cup holders are full. 

Also, it can cause the center console lid to get stuck in an upright position, making it awkward and distracting while driving. 

The headlight controls are to the left of the sterling wheel on the dash instead of on a knob. Also, the Drive Mode selector is located under the infotainment system, making it more difficult to access while in motion. 

2. The Q5 is equipped with off-roading features 

The 2022 Audi Q5 has standard all-wheel drive across the entire lineup, which is an excellent perk. It should be able to handle snow and other slippery conditions just fine. It has an 8.2-inch ground clearance which is adequate for climbing over obstacles. 

You can turn off the traction control system for more control around slippery curves, and it has downhill descent control. The Off-Road maximizes the traction and braking responses to enhance stability. 

The V6 model can be equipped with a locking differential to provide more muscle in slippery conditions. However, our tester’s engine sounded pretty loud and strained while traversing slippery muddy trails and gravel roads. 

3. The Audi Q5 is elegant 

The 2022 Audi Q5 has a simple, elegant design. The dash isn’t crowded with buttons and controls. The spacious interior is attractive without being too flashy or over the top. Pops of wood grain trim break up large sections of black upholstery. 

Silver trim pieces help the interior pop, and the windshield provides tons of visibility. The massive panoramic sunroof has a nice tint. Light can enter the cabin without being too bright. The head-up display is direct without being distracting. 

The infotainment screen is slightly out of reach, but blends perfectly into the dash. The doors open wide for easy access, and the hands-free tailgate is a nice touch. 

It provides a smooth ride, but the sport mode provides a sense of connection to the road. The engine is nearly silent, but you can hear a little wind and road noise at highway speeds. 

4. The Q5 is all about customization 

You can quickly personalize the 2022 Audi Q5 to meet various driving modes. If you want more engagement, turn on Dynamic Mode and use the paddle shifters. Plus, you can use Comfort Mode for a more relaxing ride. You can customize the Individual mode too. 

The digital gauge cluster has multiple layouts, and you can adjust how loudly the vehicle beeps at you and its built-in voice. The ambient lighting has multiple colors to choose from, and you can select up to three at once. 

Both the digital gauge cluster and infotainment system can display a 3D topographical map of your surroundings, and the live traffic jam assist helps you to avoid delays. The digital rearview mirror displays your direction. 

One of the most unique features includes the insulated cup holder. You can keep a beverage cooled or warm for hours. It kept a can of spade perfectly chilled for three hours. 

5. The Q5 could have more passenger space 

The 2022 Audi Q5 provides 25.85 cubic feet of passenger space with up to 54.06 cubes in total. According to Car and Driver, it trails the competition. But at least the seats nearly fold flat, and the liftover height is convenient. 

The average-sized adult will have plenty of space in the first row, but the backseat may feel cramped. About four adults can squeeze into the Audi Q5 comfortably. 

There doesn’t seem to be much space for personal items. The center console, cup holders, door pockets, and storage trays are shallow. There isn’t a good spot for your phone unless you put it on the sliding center console tray, which can be frustrating to access. 

We still have more to learn about what makes and breaks the 2022 Audi Q5. There are more pros and cons to report. Stay tuned for our full review.