Audi Q5 Review

2010 Audi Q5 3.2 Premium quattro SUV

Larger and higher than a hatchback but smaller and more civilized than a full-size sport-ute -- that's the car-based crossover SUV in a nutshell, and it continues to be one of the hottest market segments going. The Audi Q5 lives in the rarefied territory of the luxury crossover. Think of it as an A4 sedan with more cargo space and a higher center of gravity, and you won't be far off the mark. It also boasts some of the sleekest sheet metal in a competitive class that includes the BMW X3, Infiniti EX35 and Mercedes GLK-Class.

The Q5 is also one of the larger models in this grouping, and this results in an interior that's a bit roomier than most. Audi is known for high-quality interiors, and the Q5 doesn't disappoint here either. The model's biggest downside is perhaps its price, as the upper trim levels can get uncomfortably expensive. Even so, Audi's new Q5 is worth consideration for people interested in a small luxury crossover SUV.

Current Audi Q5

The five-seat Audi Q5 is available in one trim level, but with three equipment packages: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Standard features include alloy wheels, power front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control, while higher trim levels offer niceties like a premium stereo, a power liftgate, the available Audi Drive Select system (allowing driver control over powertrain and ride/handling characteristics) and the MMI system with hard-drive-based navigation. Only one engine is offered, Audi's familiar 3.2-liter V6, which makes 270 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque in this application. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and together the two channel power to Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

In reviews, we've found that the Audi Q5 strikes a remarkably satisfying balance between performance and comfort. The V6 has well over 4,000 pounds to contend with here, but it's generally up to the task, albeit devoid of sporting character. The steering is accurate and nicely weighted, and body control is quite good for a tall wagon. At the same time, the ride is supple enough to please those who couldn't care less about handling.

The optional Audi Drive Select system aids the Q5's driving dynamics, offering four discrete combinations of throttle response, transmission shift points, steering effort and suspension settings. The combinations are called Comfort, Automatic, Dynamic and Individual, and the latter is customizable to personal tastes. The system really works, permitting the Q5 to be cosseting when you need it to be and sporting when you want it to be.

Inside, the Audi Q5 is quite similar to the A4, which is to say it features high-quality materials and an attractive dashboard layout. Maximum cargo capacity is unimpressive at about 67 cubic feet, but if hauling large loads isn't a top priority, the Q5 is otherwise a thoroughly competent crossover. Of the many flavors to choose from in the luxury crossover segment, we think Audi's is one of the most appealing.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.