Audi Q5 TDI Quattro

Vehicle Review

Refinement Whichever version you choose, the Q5 offers a very quiet way to travel. You hear a smattering of wind- and road noise, but not enough of either to upset you. The engines are wonderfully refined, too. The diesels are smooth and quiet, while the petrol gives off a pleasing rasp when you accelerate hard Quality & Reliability Are Audi quality standards slipping? Well, there are a few areas of the Q5's cabin where durability seems to have taken precedence over tactility, but most of the areas you come into contact with frequently are still a delight. Safety & Security The Q5 provides all the obvious safety defences, including hill-descent control to help it crawl down off-road slopes. It also throws in a few novelties, such as the clever stability control, which has a special off-road programme. It can even detect if you have a loaded roof rack and respond sooner to prevent any risk of the car toppling over. Space & Practicality Audi admits 'sporty' looks were a priority with the Q5, but this doesn't impinge on practicality. There's plenty of room for four adults and still room for 540 litres of luggage, which is virtually trebled with the rear seats down. The rear seats fold and recline, and there's the option of runners that gives them 100mm of fore and aft travel. A folding front passenger seat is also an option.

Technical Information