The New Audi Q5
Totally redesigned from the ground up the new Audi Q5 may not look different but looks are deceptive writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? Aimed squarely at the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, Jaguar F-Pace and Land Rover Discovery Sport, Audi’s middle child, the Q5, has been completely redesigned
First impressions of the new Audi Q5? Upon first glance, apart from the new single-frame grille, the second-generation Q5 remains unchanged for the most part, but it’s now longer, wider and taller than the current model and, with a longer wheelbase, there is more interior space.
What about the interior? Inside, the contemporary design is clean and uncluttered and all the controls are easy to find and to use. Behind the steering wheel, the optional 12.3-inch virtual cockpit moves from various display options and projects information directly in front of the driver with richly detailed graphics. There’s also loads of headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers and more than enough space for five people and their luggage, too, as the compact SUV boasts a luggage capacity of 550 litres.
Under the bonnet? Powering this compact SUV is a choice of 4 diesel engines but whichever you choose they are all up to the task and are impressively economic.
Audi Q5 on the road? The Q5 is not a car that will thrill you with its dynamics but you won’t have any complaints in terms of handling and steering and whether on back roads or motorways it’s solid, refined and brings a dash of panache to a crowded market.
How much? Prices for the Q5 start at €48,350 for the 2.0 TDI 150 bhp SE, rising to €54,850 for the 2.0 TDI 190 bhp S Tronic Quattro.
What do I get as standard? Standard features on the Q5 include xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights, the Audi MMI Navigation with seven-inch MMI colour display, Bluetooth and USB charging function, Audi drive select dynamic handling system, twin leather, and front and rear parking sensors. The LED interior lighting pack is now also standard.
How safe? The Audi Q5 showed off its strengths in the latest Euro NCAP tests, during which it scored points for occupant protection, child safety and pedestrian protection, making it among the safest crossovers on sale today. Also contributing to the SUV’s rating were the driver assistance systems that are standard equipment.
3 words to describe the Audi Q5? Refined; Comfortable; Connected
For more information check out the Audi Ireland website, the Audi Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Geraldine Herbert
22nd March, 2017
