Audi Q5 3.2 Test Drive and Review - Still Sublime

The 2010 Audi Q5 is another example of excellence in Audi engineering. As typical Audi, the interior is top notch. Granted most SUVs are not exactly exciting to drive so they better be easy and comfortable. This one isn’t for performance or off-road capability but rather practicality. Not too big, but just right.

Equipped with the 3.2 liter V-6 producing 270 horsepower, it’s quite adequate for daily driving and the owner reports the trip computer states 26mpg at 70-80mph cruising. Audi states a 0-60mph time of 6.7 seconds as well. It does require premium gas but you pay for what you get. I immediately think of some popular V-6s that are 3.5 liters or larger before having that horsepower mark.

It’s really about utility and the automatic rear hatch has a height adjustment for ease of closing. It also has a nice cargo cover and very well thought-out floor plan.

The 3.2 Premium Plus package includes the 2-panel Panorama sunroof, one of the most distinctive features. The rear panel is fixed but the front offers a nice large opening for fresh air. It has a perforated power sunshade as well that isn’t taut. After all, it is pretty large. What is a neat feature is the shade can be closed with the roof open so that you still get the airflow but not the sun beating down on you. There will be some flutter from the shade, however.

While reaching for my pen that fell on the side of the seat, I discovered the button for lumbar support. This one had all the great features of the A5 I reviewed including the integrated navigation, satellite radio and iPod controls in the fantastic MMI multi-media interface. One negative feedback point from the owner is the 3-D view of the navigation system is disconcerting in dense downtown areas with high-rise buildings. Take a look at the Interior Link below and click on photo #5 supplied by Audi. If you use a navigation system currently, you might relate to this complaint.

Driving the SUV…wait, Audi calls this a crossover. Well that really means it’s a lifted station wagon with more headroom and taller cargo area. The other “crossovers” like the Honda Accord (see my San Jose Auto Show article and photos) are just lifted wagons. Alright, so back to the driving impression. Typical Audi turbine-like smoothness. The 6-speed automatic works very well.

The mirrors, while large and excellent for side/rear visibility blocked my vision when turning. Then again, not everyone’s eyes are in the same place when seated. What was also noticed when turning was somewhat heavy off-center steering feel.

The ride is firm yet smooth, a common description with many premium cars. When in the market for a mid-size SUV yet desiring luxury features, the Q5, especially the V-6, offers all the benefits of a sedan, isn’t oversized and offers excellent cargo capacity. Practical, rather efficient and excellent quality.

Audi USA website, click on picture#5

http://www.audiusa.com/us/brand/en/models/q5/explore/exterior_design.html#source=http://www.audiusa.com/us/brand/en/models/q5/explore/interior_design.html&container=page

Audi A5 Review and Test Drive:

http://www.examiner.com/autos-in-san-jose/audi-a5-quattro-coupe-review-and-test-drive-sublime-perfection