The all-new 2025 Audi Q5 and 2025 Audi SQ5 have just been unveiled, poised to challenge the Cadillac XT5 in the luxury D-crossover segment when they hit the U.S. market 2025.
The 2025 Audi Q5 range was treated to myriad exterior design upgrades that result in a sporty, lithe confirmation. The front fascia now incorporates a more upright design than its predecessor, helping it breathe through a wide, expressive intake while gaining a more aggressive demeanor. “Regular” Q5 models get matte anthracite accents, while the sportier SQ5 features matte silver chrome.
A prominent styling line stretches from the topline of the headlights to just above the taillights, drawing attention to the redesigned rear fascia and liftgate. The diffuser out back is integrated into the raised bumpers. Two square exhaust outlets denote the “regular” Q5, while the S model gets Audi’s signature quad round exhaust outlets to set it apart from the crowd.
Inside, the Q5 has been overhauled to feature a sharp cabin design. The luxury crossover gets an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit paired with the 14.5-inch Audi MMI display. The passenger side features its own 10.9-inch MMI Passenger Display, which allows access to certain infotainment features without visually distracting the driver. Hands-free tech includes a natural language AI assistant powered by ChatGPT, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more.
For global markets, the 2025 Audi Q5 will offer mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) technology and a diesel option, but the U.S.-spec model will feature one powerhouse: the turbocharged 2.0L I4 engine, which is good for 268 horsepower. At this time, Audi has not revealed further specifications regarding the U.S.-bound Q5, such as torque and fuel economy. The marque hasn’t disclosed the price tag for this vehicle, either, but indicated that more information will drop as the Q5 on-sale date draws closer.
Since the Q5 and SQ5 will rival the Cadillac XT5, for the sake of comparison, let’s revisit Caddy’s side of the ring. In the U.S., the 2025 XT5 soldiers on with minimal changes and updates, checking in as the seventh model year of the luxury crossover’s first generation.
For power, the Luxury and Premium Luxury trim levels feature the turbocharged 2.0L I4 engine (production code LSY) as standard, which is rated at 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The naturally-aspirated 3.6L V6 engine (production code LGX), rated at 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, is optional on the Premium Luxury trim and standard on the Sport trim. Pricing for the base XT5 Luxury starts at $45,690.
In China, Cadillac will treat the XT5 to a very attractive redesign. Unfortunately, this overhaul will not make its way to the U.S. See more on the new XT5 in the Cadillac Society Podcast embedded just above.
Given that the next-gen XT5 is not being planned for the U.S, it’s likely that the 2025 model will be the last in the U.S.
One of four new colors for the 2025 model year.
And it now represents the best value in its segment.
A curious sighting from a video of the Cadillac design studio.
