2009 Audi Q5

By Zack Spencer     November 4, 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.

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