Used 2021 Audi Q5 for Sale nearColumbia, SC

How much does the 2021 Audi Q5 cost?

Prices have softened 12.25% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 1,226 listings available, which gives you a solid amount of inventory to compare.

Is the 2021 Audi Q5 a good car?

Yes — the 4.75/5 user rating and 8/10 expert rating point to a strong overall package. The Q5’s appeal comes from its standard all-wheel drive, comfortable character, and impressive technology, while the plug-in hybrid setup adds electrification to Audi’s lineup. The main trade-offs are uninspired styling, interior materials that feel cheap, and the fact that advanced safety features are not standard. If you want a premium five-seat luxury SUV with a tech-forward cabin and everyday usability, this model year fits that brief well. Good and great deals account for 35.0% of listings, which suggests there are still worthwhile opportunities in the market.

Is the 2021 Audi Q5 reliable?

Owners rate it 4.75/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction. The Q5’s overall character points toward a vehicle built around comfort, quality, and everyday usefulness, and the expert evaluation also highlights its strong technology and balanced driving manners. Its plug-in hybrid system adds another layer of complexity, but the performance write-up describes the setup as innovative and effective, with convincing acceleration and efficient operation. If you’re shopping used, the main long-term ownership risk is making sure the hybrid system and overall condition have been maintained properly.

What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Audi Q5?

Accident-free inventory is solid at 82.6% — always verify the vehicle history report.

You should still check the vehicle history carefully and prioritize a pre-purchase inspection, especially if you’re considering a plug-in hybrid example with more complex hardware. Focus on overall condition, signs of wear in the cabin, and whether the technology and charging-related features work as expected. If the listing has options or packages, make sure they match the seller’s description.

Key things to evaluate:

• Trim level: The base trim is the one most likely to leave you wanting more, since navigation is not available on it and some convenience and tech features are reserved for higher trims. The cabin is still well equipped, but the upper trims add more of the premium feel you’d expect from this model.
• Powertrain: The plug-in hybrid setup pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 14.1-kWh battery for 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. It can drive on battery power alone for up to 20 miles depending on charge, and it returns 65 MPGe combined or 27 mpg combined in gasoline-only mode.
• Safety package: Audi Pre Sense basic is standard, along with a rearview camera, six airbags, electronic stability control, and other core safety hardware. Available driver-assistance features include Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, Parking System Plus, adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, park steering assist, traffic-sign recognition, and a top-view camera system. Advanced safety features are not standard.
• Infotainment: You get a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay, and an integrated toll module. Navigation is available on the Premium Plus trim and included with the Prestige Package.
• Fuel efficiency: The plug-in hybrid is rated at 65 MPGe combined and 27 mpg combined in gasoline-only mode.

Which 2021 Audi Q5 trim should I buy?

The 2021 Audi Q5 is offered in 3 trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige.

Here's the short version:

• Premium: This is the entry point, and it makes sense if you want the Q5 PHEV experience at the lowest starting price. It gives you the core plug-in hybrid hardware and standard tech, but you give up some of the convenience and navigation content that appears higher up the range.
• Premium Plus: This is the best-value trim for most shoppers because it adds more of the premium equipment without jumping all the way to the top price. Navigation is available here, and it’s the trim to target if you want a better balance of features and cost.
• Prestige: This is the most fully equipped version, and it’s the right pick if you want the richest tech and luxury presentation. The Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system is standard here, and the Navigation Package is included with the Prestige Package.

Advanced safety features are not standard, so check carefully which driver-assistance items are included on the specific trim and vehicle you’re considering.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Audi Q5?

This is a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop with some leverage if you’re patient.

• Deal availability: 35.0% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 1,226 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 12.25% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 82.6% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $22,202, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2021 Audi Q5's resale value?

The current average of $22,202 sits slightly below last year's $25,302.

That price movement suggests the market has cooled, which can work against a future seller if values continue to soften. On the other hand, a lower entry price can help keep the Q5 attractive to used buyers who want premium features without paying new-car money. If demand stays steady, especially for well-equipped examples, that should help support values better than a weaker, less desirable luxury SUV.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.75/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Is the 2021 Audi Q5 safe?

The 2021 Audi Q5 gasoline model earns five-star ratings from NHTSA, while the PHEV version has not yet been rated. It also received top “good” ratings in every IIHS category except headlights, where it received a “marginal” rating.

It earns a 7/10 safety score from our experts.

Audi Pre Sense basic is standard, and the Q5 also includes six airbags, a rearview camera, electronic stability control, low-speed collision assist, and other core safety equipment. Available driver-assistance features include Audi Pre Sense rear, Audi Side Assist with rear cross-traffic alert, Parking System Plus, adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist, park steering assist, traffic-sign recognition, and a top-view camera system. The main caveat is that advanced safety features are not standard, so you’ll want to confirm exactly what’s fitted on the specific vehicle you’re considering.

Should I buy a 2021 Audi Q5 or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2021 if:

• 35.0% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Accident-free inventory is solid at 82.6% — always verify the vehicle history report.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 12.25% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.75/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
• Audi’s plug-in hybrid setup is a key highlight for this year, giving you electrification in the Q5 lineup.

The bottom line: If you want the Q5’s plug-in hybrid setup and a market that currently favors careful shoppers, the 2021 is the year to target. If your priority is simply finding the lowest possible price, a nearby model year may be worth comparing, but the 2021 gives you a strong mix of value, tech, and availability.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 11, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.