Audi has one of the most recognisable product line-ups around and its designers got their pastry cutters out again for the Q5. The compact SUV looks like a scaled down Q7 or tall A4 depending on your preference, so it holds few surprises. Thankfully its smaller dimensions are much less ostentatious than the Q7, although its big grille is still flanked by glitzy-looking headlights. Off-roaders aren’t exactly flavour of the month these days, but the Q5’s car-like appearance and a prestige badge make it one of the most desirable 4x4s around.
Interior/Practicality
The design and build of the interior is just what we’ve come to expect from Audi. The smart layout and high quality materials provide a classy look and feel. In terms of space the cabin is merely average but the optional sliding rear bench boosts practicality. A decent boot helps to make the Q5 and good load-lugger, but its steeply raked rear windscreen restricts its ability to swallow really big loads.
Engine/Performance
Diesel engines rule in the compact SUV sector and Audi has plenty of experience here. Both the 2.0 and 3.0-litre TDI units provide decent performance but the smaller engine is more economical, making it the sensible option. Alternatively, the firm’s clever 2.0-litre TFSI petrol delivers impressive pace, but you will pay the price at the pumps when you come to sell it.
Driving experience
Excellent road manners show where the Q5 is designed to work best. With positive steering and tight body control the Audi has the kind of car-like precision that its prestige rivals can’t match from behind the wheel. Ride comfort is firm but well judged damping deals with bumps effectively. Standard-fit ESP and hill descent control boost its off-road credentials. The Q5 is no mud-plugger, but it has more than enough ability in the rough for most buyers.
Ownership Costs
Depreciation is the biggest hidden cost associated with owning any car and the Q5 scores strongly here. The allure of the Audi badge and its new status combine to give the compact SUV strong resale values – especially in 2.0TDI guise. Its reasonable CO2 emissions also provide a relatively low tax band rating so running costs are equally appealing. Decent fuel economy for the entry-level diesel seals the deal.
Safety/Environment
The 2.0-litre TDI punches above its weight and can go head-to-head with bigger engines from other manufacturers. As a result, it looks eco-friendly, with lower emissions and superior fuel economy than rival models with larger powerplants. ESP is standard across the line-up to boost safety. You also get a six airbags.
- Rating:
- On the road price: £30,780 - £36,750
- For : Styling, car-like dynamics, cabin quality
- Against : Expensive, thirsty petrol
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