I've just ordered a 2021 Q5e, Prestige model (Minnesota, USA). I would really like to get it equipped with the Adaptive Air Suspension. The dealer tells me this is only available in the Sports Plus option(SP2). However, the SP2 package forces the interior color to all black with aluminum accents, requires the Dinamica (fake suede) seat covers, and eliminates the seat ventilation. It also forces the selection of 20", 10-spoke gray sport wheels with "summer" tires. We selected a different interior color with wood accents, and want the ventilated leather seating that comes with the Prestige option. We can live with the 20" wheels.

I contacted the folks at Audi USA, and was told to communicate with the Sales Manager to see if this person can make arrangements, possibly through the Audi Executive Program(?). I tried that, but the answer still came back negative. I've also contacted a couple of other dealers in our area, and was told the same story regarding lack of choice. This really is outrageous, considering the amount of money I'm already laying out for this vehicle!

Does anyone know of a way to get the Adaptive Air Suspension ordered on our vehicle without the other Audi-required items in the Sports Plus package? Perhaps I need to contact a dealership or online seller outside of our region to find someone with more knowledge/pull/chutzpah?

 

I ordered my 2018 Q5 (top model but not Sports or S-Line) with air suspension. At the time it was reported that only the S line qualified for the air suspension but I had no problem adding it to my options (ventilated seats, oak wood inlay, driver assist). That said, I have found it unnecessary most of the time to use it unless you do a LOT of off-pavement driving. I wouldn’t call this vehicle a bush monster unless you get suitable tires, and preferably the 19” ones if you are serious about rough roads. I did a video on youtube reviewing them ( ) but in the couple of years since then I feel even more strongly that it is unneeded for 95% of driving. It’s fun to crank up the height but the higher centre of gravity driving is for slow speeds only. Longevity of the system is unproven too, once out of warranty it may be a very expensive repair if anything happens. So save your money, buy better off road tires if you are serious, or just live with Audi’s excellent all wheel drive technology.

 

I forgot to mention I live in Canada. Maybe different ordering policy for Audi. Although Don’t they all come from the same factory in Mexico?

 

Thanks for the reply! I think I saw your video before ordering the vehicle. Nice of you to share.

Anyway, brother to the north, my usage plans seem to be a bit different from yours :-) , as I don't plan to do any off-roading - quite the contrary. During test drives, I found the Q5 (especially the PHEV) to feel a bit "top-heavy", and also quite affected by any cross wind. Other than when I'm racing my laydown enduro go-kart (look it up if you aren't familiar with this), my wife and I are seeking comfort, on-road handling and safety. My understanding is that the AAS allows one to lower the ride height (a small amount, maybe ~an inch?), as well as to select damping firmness via ADS (our 2011 A4 has "drive select" adjustable shocks - nice!). I've also read that the air suspension does a better job of isolating the vehicle from the smaller pavement disturbances, like cracks and small potholes (?). maybe one can even lower the vehicle while parked, for easier entry exit of short-legged persons (-; If these things are true, I think the AAS would be worthwhile having.

What do you think? Also, I'm still getting stonewalled about ordering AAS without the "cosmetic" features, so it may all be moot :-(

Anyone out there know how/who to get this done???

Thanks!

Our 2011 A4

 

oops....forgot about the PHEV. yeah that may change everything (including handling due to weight distribution) I dont know if those are even made in Mexico like the regular Q5. I’ve had numerous Volvos, a Ford Escape, and a couple of A4s prior to this Q5 and I must admit it is the best ride I’ve ever had. Great internal space (maybe snug in the back seat). The Air suspension does drop the body a bit for “Dynamic” aka sport mode, and it is a more responsive ride for winding roads and ‘engaged” driving. I haven’t seen whether the new all electric Q5 has the air suspension either. It seems to be an option that isn’t actively pushed by Audi.

 

The AAS is definitely available for order with the Q5e here in the USA, but only in a package "SP2" (for the Prestige model) with the cosmetic items firmly attached. So technical feasibility is not an issue. I believe all the US Q5 models a assembled in Mexico, so that shouldn't be an issue either.

Think I just need to find a dealership that really cares enough (and maybe has some "pull") to make it happen.