Audi Brings new Style to Compact SUV Class
The Q5 compact all-wheel drive wagon, which is based on the current A4, promises to make Audi even more competitive in the luxury car market where it now has most niches covered. In many respects the Q5 is like the impressive Q7 writ smaller (and more economical).
What You Get
In typical Audi fashion, the Q5 blends elegant styling, excellent safety credentials, a beautifully designed interior and class-leading economy. It makes the best case for itself in both value and green credentials in 2.0-litre TDI (turbocharged diesel injection) guise, although there are no fewer than four engines available, two diesel and two petrol.
Under The Hood
Maximum power is a rather modest 125 kW but peak torque of 350 Nm is the key to the 2.0 TDI’s liveliness. All variants of the Q5 use a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which functions more like a conventional torque converter transmission than an automated manual but is more fuel-efficient. The gearshifts are impeccably smooth and the ratios are well spaced – not difficult when there are seven to play with. Official testing scores the most economical Q5 at 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres. At the other extreme is the 3.2-litre petrol V6 on 9.3.
The Interior
As with all recent Audis, interior design is a major strength. The Q5 oozes class with superb quality materials and beautifully toned colours. All elements are integrated into a harmonious whole. Having said that though, you are always aware that there is a limit to space, even if the Q5 boasts more luggage space than its closest rival, the BMW X3. The rear seats can be moved separately to increase the cargo area and boast a neat folding system which yields an almost flat floor behind the front seats.
Exterior & Styling
To most eyes the Q5 will be more beautiful than the unusual X3 which offers a strange mix of angles. While it lacks the sheer massive presence of its Q7 sibling, the Q5 still has a clear Audi identity and the trademark single-frame grille is well integrated into the overall design, which blends elegance and purposefulness. The stylists have done an excellent job on the rear, which looks sportier than most of its type.
On The Road
As you would expect of a vehicle developed with a challenge to the BMX X3 heading its agenda, the Q5 is an agile, nifty handler. Its excellent cornering ability is offset by a firmish ride. Although the steering is quick, there is almost no feel of the road transmitted. Compared with, say, the previous generation BMW X5, it feels quite numb and will not please the ardent driving enthusiast. One impressive aspect of the Audi is its very low noise levels. The overall impression is of a highly refined vehicle that lacks that final touch of exhilaration. More steering feel would make a huge difference.
Challenges
The biggest drawback of the Audi Q5 like its BMW rival is that you can buy more spacious vehicles with greater offroad capability for a lot less than $66K. But there is no doubt that many will shop for the allure of the Audi name. Significantly, the larger and higher-riding Q7 wagon has more offroad talent.
Verdict
No softroader should ever be confused with a real ‘rough stuff’ 4WD vehicle such as a Range Rover or Toyota Hilux and the Q5 lacks the ground clearance to be able to tackle difficult tracks, even though it is equipped with a hill descent feature which limits speed to seven km/h. As long as offroad challenges are of the minor variety and the vehicle will spend most of its time travelling where conventional vehicles travel, the Q5 should delight most owners with its style, economy, elegance and refinement.
The Competition
The Q5 looks set to displace the ageing and curiously styled BMW X3 as the compact prestige all-wheel drive wagon of choice. It lacks the BMW’s sharp steering but eclipses it on the equipment/price balance. The Land Rover Freelander has far greater offroad ability but arguably carries less prestige.
Likes
Elegant styling inside and out, excellent diesel engine, innovative rear seat arrangement
Dislikes
Steering lacks feel which detracts from driver enjoyment, ride is firm over poor surfaces (such as almost anywhere offroad), you won’t change the radio station without prior knowledge
