What Size Is the Audi Q5 Battery?

The Audi Q5 typically uses a 12‑volt AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) starter battery around 70–95 Ah (ampere-hours) capacity and about 760–850 A cold-cranking amperage (CCA), while plug‑in hybrid Q5 models also have a high‑voltage lithium‑ion battery ranging from roughly 10–14 kWh depending on model year and market. Below is a detailed breakdown by generation, engine type, and model.

Understanding Battery Types in the Audi Q5

The term “battery size” can refer to both physical dimensions and electrical capacity, and in the Audi Q5, it also depends on whether the vehicle is a conventional combustion model, a mild hybrid, or a plug‑in hybrid. Most owners who ask about battery size are either replacing the 12‑volt starter battery or trying to understand the capacity of the plug‑in hybrid’s high‑voltage pack.

12‑Volt vs. High‑Voltage Batteries

All Audi Q5 models have a 12‑volt battery that powers starting, lights, accessories, and supports stop‑start or mild‑hybrid systems. Plug‑in hybrid Q5 (often badged “TFSI e”) models add a large high‑voltage battery used to power the electric motor and enable electric‑only driving. These are separate systems with different specifications and functions.

12‑Volt Battery Size in the Audi Q5 (All Generations)

Most owners searching for battery size need the specifications of the 12‑volt battery used for starting and vehicle electronics. While exact battery codes and capacity can vary by engine, trim, climate package, and market, Audi Q5 models share broadly similar 12‑volt battery characteristics.

Typical 12‑Volt Battery Specifications

The following list outlines the most common 12‑volt battery ratings found in Audi Q5 models sold in North America and Europe, especially from around 2013 onward.

• Voltage: 12 V
• Technology: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) in most modern Q5; some early models may use conventional flooded lead‑acid
• Capacity: typically 70–95 Ah (ampere‑hours)
• Cold‑Cranking Amps (CCA): generally 760–850 A
• Physical class (EU examples): Group H6 / L2 or H7 / L3 size, depending on engine and equipment
• Physical class (US examples): Often equivalent to Group 48 (H6) or Group 94R (H7)

These values represent the most commonly specified sizes; individual vehicles may differ slightly depending on market, optional equipment, and whether the car has start‑stop or mild‑hybrid systems, which demand higher capacity AGM batteries.

First‑Generation Audi Q5 (Typ 8R, 2008–2017)

The first‑generation Q5, sold in most markets from 2008 to 2017, came with a range of petrol and diesel engines and, in later years, more advanced start‑stop systems. This influenced the battery size and specification.

The list below summarizes typical 12‑volt battery characteristics for common first‑generation Q5 variants.

• Early non‑start‑stop models (approx. 2009–2011):
  

  • Capacity: typically around 70–80 Ah
  • CCA: roughly 680–760 A
  • Battery type: often conventional lead‑acid (flooded), some markets already using AGM
  • Size class: roughly H6 / Group 48 in many configurations

• Later start‑stop equipped models (approx. 2012–2017):
  

  • Capacity: usually 80–95 Ah
  • CCA: around 760–850 A
  • Battery type: AGM strongly preferred or required due to start‑stop load
  • Size class: often H7 / Group 94R or similar larger case

• High‑spec diesel or cold‑climate packages:
  

  • Higher Ah and CCA within the same case size to handle glow plugs and low‑temperature starting

Within this generation, moving from early non‑start‑stop to later start‑stop versions generally meant a shift toward higher‑capacity AGM batteries, often in a slightly larger physical case.

Second‑Generation Audi Q5 (Typ FY, 2017–Present)

The current‑generation Q5, launched for the 2017 model year, standardized more advanced electronics, widespread start‑stop technology, and later, mild‑hybrid systems. This increased the demand on the 12‑volt battery and cemented AGM as the norm.

The following list outlines typical 12‑volt specifications for second‑generation Q5 versions with combustion or mild‑hybrid powertrains (not plug‑in hybrids).

• Standard petrol and diesel models (2.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI, etc.):
  

  • Capacity: typically 80–95 Ah AGM
  • CCA: about 760–850 A
  • Size class: H7 / Group 94R is common; some 2.0‑liter models may use H6 / Group 48

• Mild‑hybrid (MHEV) variants:
  

  • Capacity: still in the 80–95 Ah range but often with enhanced AGM specifications
  • Battery role: supports frequent engine restarts and energy recuperation

• SQ5 performance models:
  

  • Similar capacity range (80–95 Ah), but generally a robust AGM battery, sometimes with higher CCA

Across these modern Q5 models, the 12‑volt battery is larger and more capable than in many earlier cars, reflecting the load from advanced driver‑assistance systems, infotainment, and stop‑start or mild‑hybrid technology.

High‑Voltage Battery Size in Audi Q5 Plug‑in Hybrids (TFSI e)

Plug‑in hybrid versions of the Audi Q5, usually badged as “Q5 TFSI e,” have an additional high‑voltage lithium‑ion battery. When drivers ask about “battery size” on these models, they often mean the capacity of this pack, which determines the electric‑only driving range.

High‑Voltage Battery Capacity by Model

High‑voltage battery size in Q5 plug‑in hybrids is specified in kilowatt‑hours (kWh). The list below covers the major plug‑in hybrid Q5 variants and their approximate battery capacities, noting that minor differences can occur by model year and market.

• Q5 50 TFSI e (second‑generation plug‑in hybrid):
  

  • Battery chemistry: lithium‑ion
  • Gross capacity: approximately 14.1–17.9 kWh depending on market and update
  • Usable capacity: slightly lower than gross, typically in the 13–17 kWh range

• Q5 55 TFSI e (higher‑output plug‑in hybrid):
  

  • Battery chemistry: lithium‑ion (shared platform with 50 TFSI e)
  • Gross capacity: similar range, roughly 14–18 kWh across updates
  • Usable capacity: again, slightly lower than gross, tuned for performance and longevity

• Typical electric range:
  

  • Real‑world EV range usually sits around 30–45 km (about 20–28 miles) depending on driving style, temperature, and conditions, matching a mid‑teens kWh battery size.

These high‑voltage batteries are distinct from the 12‑volt system and are managed by dedicated control electronics and cooling systems, reflecting their central role in the Q5’s plug‑in hybrid drivetrain.

Physical Dimensions and Battery Group Sizes

While most owners only need the correct battery “group” or type when purchasing a replacement, understanding the physical size helps ensure proper fitment. Audi uses European case codes (like H6, H7), while many aftermarket parts in North America refer to BCI group numbers (like Group 48, Group 94R).

Common Case Sizes in the Audi Q5

The following list provides an overview of common physical battery case sizes associated with the Q5’s 12‑volt battery, along with approximate measurements. Exact dimensions can vary slightly by manufacturer.

• H6 / Group 48:
  

  • Approximate size: ~306 × 175 × 190 mm (L × W × H)
  • Typical capacity: around 70–80 Ah AGM
  • Common in smaller‑engine or earlier Q5 variants

• H7 / Group 94R:
  

  • Approximate size: ~353 × 175 × 190 mm (L × W × H)
  • Typical capacity: 80–95 Ah AGM
  • Common in later, higher‑spec Q5 models and those with more electrical load

• Mounting considerations:
  

  • Recessed terminals and reversed polarity options (noted by “R” in 94R) are important; incorrect orientation can cause cable reach issues.
  • Always confirm terminal layout and height to avoid interference with covers or brackets.

Knowing the typical group size (H6/Group 48 or H7/Group 94R) allows owners to cross‑shop among brands while ensuring that the new battery will physically fit and connect correctly.

Why AGM Is Standard in Modern Audi Q5 Models

Most second‑generation Q5 models and many late first‑generation cars use AGM batteries as standard. This is driven more by the vehicle’s electrical demands than by marketing, and it directly affects replacement choices.

AGM vs. Conventional Lead‑Acid

The list below explains why AGM batteries are preferred in the Audi Q5’s modern electrical architecture.

• Deep‑cycle capability:
  

  • AGM batteries better tolerate repeated partial discharge and recharge, which is common in vehicles with stop‑start and energy‑recuperation systems.

• Higher power density:
  

  • They can deliver higher CCA in the same physical size, useful for modern engines and cold starts.

• Spill‑proof design:
  

  • AGM cells are sealed and more resistant to vibration, helpful in SUVs that see mixed road conditions.

• Compatibility with vehicle charging strategy:
  

  • The Q5’s smart charging system is designed around AGM characteristics; replacing AGM with a basic flooded battery can lead to poor life and potential charging issues.

Because of these factors, when the factory fits an AGM battery, it is generally best practice to replace it with another AGM of similar capacity and specification.

Battery Registration and Coding in the Audi Q5

On many modern Audi models, including the Q5, replacing the 12‑volt battery is not purely mechanical. The vehicle’s control module often expects a specific battery profile and must be updated when a new unit is installed.

Why Coding Matters

The following list outlines the reasons behind battery registration or coding in the Q5 and what owners should keep in mind.

• Smart charging system:
  

  • The Q5’s energy management module monitors battery state of charge and adapts alternator output to reduce fuel consumption.

• Battery age tracking:
  

  • The system estimates battery aging and adjusts charging behavior; installing a new battery without resetting this can cause under‑ or over‑charging.

• Coding a new battery:
  

  • Often done with diagnostic tools (e.g., VCDS, ODIS, or professional scan tools).
  • Some aftermarket batteries come with a code or parameters that can be entered to match capacity and type.

• Symptoms of missing coding:
  

  • Poor stop‑start function, warning messages, shortened battery life, or inconsistent charging behavior.

While the car will often start and run without coding a new battery, using proper registration helps ensure long‑term reliability and optimal performance of the electrical system.

How to Confirm the Exact Battery Size for Your Q5

Because Audi offers numerous engine options, trims, and regional variations, the most accurate way to determine battery size for any individual Q5 is to check the vehicle itself and its official documentation.

Practical Steps for Owners

The list below outlines the most reliable ways to verify the correct battery for a specific Q5, beyond general model‑year guidance.

• Check the existing battery label:
  

  • Look for Ah (ampere‑hours), CCA, and case size markings (e.g., 95 Ah, 850 A, H7/94R).
  • Confirm whether it is labeled AGM or standard lead‑acid.

• Consult the owner’s manual:
  

  • Many manuals list the recommended battery specification or at least the capacity range.

• Use the VIN at a dealer or parts catalog:
  

  • Dealers and reputable parts suppliers can decode the VIN and return the exact factory battery specification.

• Consider climate and equipment:
  

  • Cold climates and heavily optioned vehicles (heated features, advanced audio, towing) may benefit from the higher‑capacity option within the correct case size.

Combining direct inspection of the existing battery with official documentation or VIN‑based lookup gives the most precise answer to what battery size your individual Q5 requires.

Summary

The Audi Q5 generally uses a 12‑volt AGM starter battery in the 70–95 Ah range, with cold‑cranking amperage typically between 760 and 850 A and common physical case sizes of H6/Group 48 or H7/Group 94R, depending on engine and equipment. Plug‑in hybrid Q5 models (Q5 TFSI e) add a high‑voltage lithium‑ion battery, usually in the mid‑teens kWh range, which provides their electric‑only driving capability. Because specifications vary by model year, engine, and region, the most reliable way to confirm the exact battery size for a specific Q5 is to check the label on the current battery, consult the owner’s manual, or use a VIN‑based lookup through an Audi dealer or trusted parts supplier.