ENGINE, HORSEPOWER
My test vehicle featured a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine; which was paired with a 7-speed S-tronic automatic transmission. It offered 252 horsepower, 273 lb.-ft. of torque, and Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.
The ride is powerful when you need it to be (0-60 in under six seconds), and it’s probably the smoothest driving experience you’ll find in the luxury class. Also, switching drive modes is easy if you want to boost your ability to get around by pushing it into Dynamic mode -- which I recommend you do on this or any other Audi. It’s what they are made for.
Towing capacity is 4,400 pounds.
TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY
Like most Audi vehicles, the Q5’s infotainment system was controlled via a centrally located dial, a system I have always been fond of due to its responsiveness and ability to control while still keeping all eyes on the road.
The navigation worked well at the outset of my time in the Q5, even voice controls brought up addresses right away, and the placement of maps directly in the dash in driver’s sight line. But in practice, navigation didn’t always work well, as it was sometimes unaware of the latest summer construction and routed me places where I couldn’t go, never understanding it was wrong.
The official mpg numbers on the 2018 Audi Q5 are 23 city/27 highway/25 combined. My time in the vehicle netted an average of 23.7 mpg.
PRICE
The Q5 that I tested had a final price just over $52,000; base price starts about $41,500; That’s definitely expensive but you will know why when you are driving -- it shines even when compared to top SUVs in the class from big-name competitors like Cadillac, Lexus, Benz, Infiniti and BMW.
BOTTOM LINE
If you love Audi vehicles, but don’t need the longer, three-row Q7 SUV, the 2018 Q5 is a great option for Audi fans to consider -- as it’s smooth, enjoyable ride and sharp design are hard to beat.
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Matt Myftiu can be found on Twitter @MattMyftiu.
