The Updated 2026 Audi A5 and Q5 are Finally Coming to America

An Update Already?

Yes, that early. The A5 and Q5 just had their first full model year in 2025, but the 2026 models are already bringing a host of welcome changes. So for those shopping around for either of these cars, it might be a good time to wait for these to come out, or haggle with your nearest dealer for a better deal. Good luck with that.

So, what to expect from the new(er) A5 and Q5? Well, there's been a lot of buzz surrounding the return of some buttons, but there's more to it than a couple more physical controls. It's good news, but so is the addition of a few more features and options, as well as tweaks to the infotainment.

Here's What's New

We'll get to the buttons first. The A5 and Q5 get a new steering wheel with, drumroll please, a scroll wheel instead of a haptic pad. Also, one no longer needs to dig through menus to get to the parking assists, as there's a dedicated button for that now. That's pretty much the extent of it, and most controls are still done via the touchscreen. Also, the window switches are still haptic pads.

For the infotainment, the new interface features fewer lists to simplify the user experience. Also, the Virtual Cockpit gets a few tweaks here and there that allow for more personalization. Part of the 2026 changes also includes the expanded Audi drive select modes with a true Individual setting.

Audi says the advanced driver-assist features have some improvements as well. The same goes for the virtual assistant, plus the addition of the 'Experience Worlds' cabin mood system. Experience Worlds includes Activating, Relaxing, and Harmonizing modes, and the company adds that more will be added soon, likely via over-the-air updates.

The S Models Get Upgrades, Too

The new features worth pointing out in the 2026 S5 and SQ5 are Dynamic Plus Mode and Drive Select Assistant. Dynamic Plus Mode gives the rear differential more free rein and better rotation around the bends. Audi claims that this mode allows for more oversteer thanks to brake torque vectoring and an optimized stability control system.

Meanwhile, the Drive Select Assistant is a bit like an adaptive driving mode. It can tense up or relax the chassis and throttle response on the fly, depending on conditions and input from the driver. This feature is only fitted on the Prestige version of the S5 and SQ5, but oddly enough, it's also in the Q5 Prestige.

Coming Soon to Showrooms

Audi has confirmed that the 2026 models will reach dealers sometime during the first quarter of the year. There isn't an exact date just yet, but it should be sooner rather than later. Besides, Audi needs 2026 to be a strong year give last year's sales performance.

As for pricing, the 2026 A5 starts at $50,200, while the Q5 carries a base price of $52,800.

View the full article