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Publication Date: November 23, 2009 The Scoop
Over the past year we have seen an explosion of premium compact utilities entering the market, from the Mercedes GLK to the Infiniti EX and Volvo XC60. These join the established BMW X3 and Acura RDX in a class of vehicles that more and more Canadians are becoming attracted too. Compact, luxury crossovers are appealing because they offer entry into the luxury market for less. Not to be left out, Audi also has something to offer, the Q5 compact crossover. The Q5 is for buyers who couldn't see themselves driving an Audi station wagon or the larger Q7. This new vehicle can provide the utility they want, the performance they need at a price they can handle. The starting price is $43,500.
The Skin
The Q5 is based on the all-new A4 sedan that came out last year. The biggest change to that vehicle was the longer wheelbase, which provided much needed back seat room. This Q5 has the same wheelbase but it is wider than the sedan to provide proper dimensions in crossover form. The signature Audi front design has been carried into this new product with more finesse than the A4, I especially like the sharper angles on the lights, plus the rear lights have more bling, making the Q5 stand out. The power tailgate is optional on the base model and standard on the premium version, which costs roughly $5000 more. The problem when the tailgate is that it doesn't flip up far enough for tall people and hitting your head could happen. The cargo space is well finished and a useful size, plus there is a hidden area underneath.
The Cockpit
Inside is identical to the A4 except the size of the optional, and massive, panoramic sunroof. Leather heated seats are standard and if the premium model is ordered the back seats are heated too. Speaking of seats, the longer wheelbase borrowed from the A4 provides back seats with good legroom, I even had my two boys back there in booster seats and they had plenty of room. Some optional equipment on my test Q5 includes push button start, sat radio, navigation and better stereo. One problem; the Multi Media Interface (MMI) controller is on the dash, by the radio, and not placed on the centre console between the seats unless the navigation system is ordered. Why they don't just place it on all models, in the centre, where it was designed to go I don't know.
The Ride
The only engine offered is a powerful and smooth V6. It's a 3.2L unit with 270hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, utilizing direct injection to provide instant acceleration plus it makes this powerful engine more efficient. Quattro all wheel drive is standard, as is a 6-speed Tiptronic transmission. One option that I highly recommend is called "Drive Select" and just like the name suggests it adapts the drive of the car to suite the driver's tastes. What this system does is adjust the sensitivity of the steering, the responsiveness of the throttle, the mapping of the transmission and the firmness of the suspension. There are several modes, or settings, including normal, comfort, dynamic and individual. This new system has transformed my opinion of Audi products. In the past, my number one complaint about Audi products was the overly boosted and rather numb steering. Now that has been fixed and the Q5 rivals the BMW X3 for handling.
The Good, The Bad
Good: The Q5 is a perfect alternative for buyers who might have been attracted to an A4 sedan but want more room. With slightly more interior space than its main rivals, the Q5 is a good fit for more Canadian families.
Bad: One thing that I'm not crazy about are the basic 18-inch wheels, they just look wimpy but there are other designs including 19 and 20-inch wheels on the S-line.
Zack's verdict
The base model Q5 is a great choice for anyone that wants a comfortable, luxury, family vehicle for a very reasonable price; it even competes nicely with the very popular Mercedes GLK. It is when optional equipment is added that the price goes up very quickly. The premium package (to get the lift gate), plus Drive Select, navigation and larger wheels can push the price to over $55,000. A similarly equipped Mercedes GLK is roughly $5000 less. However, the Q5 drives very differently than the GLK, it competes more with the BMW X3 for handling and might just be the most dynamic vehicle in the class to drive. With “Drive Select" this Q5 is very quick off the line, handling is first rate and the numb steering has been solved
The Lowdown
Power: 3.2L V6 with 270hp
Fill-up: 11.5L/9.0L/100km (city/highway)
Backup: 4-year/80,000km
Sticker price: $43,500
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