Audi Q5 Sportback 45 SUV: A Close Look
Real-world driving reveals a pleasant surprise.
VEHICLE FRONT
The Q5 looks similar to other models in the Audi line. But there is a lot of excellent German engineering under this nice-looking shape, making it one of the better SUVs on the market.
Text and photos by Chad Haire
ENGINE
The base motor is a 2.0 liter putting out 201 horsepower. It’s found on the entry-level model 40. This model 45 has a more potent 2.0 turbo cranking 261 horsepower. It is hooked to a slick 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Fuel economy is listed at 23/28 mpg, with an average of 25. A Premium blend is required. Those who want more can order a 3.0 V-6 with 349 hp, or a 2.0 liter hybrid at 362 ponies. But wanting more costs more, a lot.
PRICE
While the Q5 with smaller engine output starts for less coin, the 45 version has a base fee of $48K. This includes a lot of standard equipment, but there will always be options to dig into your wallet. The Bang & Olufsen stereo is certainly worth an extra $950. The sport package may be worth the tab if you are a brisk driver. In the end, $56,540 was the amount presented. Ordering the more powerful motors will reach sky-high, but it's only money!
TIRES/WHEELS
That $1,400 sport package issues these large 21-inch wheels, as well as a suspension adjusted for spirited driving.
PADDLES
That 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox is a gem, shifting properly in any situation. But for those who want to choose gears manually, these paddles work just fine. Plus they are mounted on the steering wheel where they can be reached at all times, unlike a few car makers who put on the steering column where they can only be reached while driving in a straight line. This Audi setup is better.
GAUGES
The gauge cluster is well designed and provides lots of useful information.
CAMERA
The info screen has excellent clarity and gives a sharp picture of the rear view when placed in reverse gear.
STEREO
If you pay that extra $950 for the Bang & Olufsen 3-D system, it is a wise choice. It sounds great.
HVAC
The climate controls are very easy to operate.
POV STREET
The Q5 45 is a pleasure to drive on the street. The fuel economy on the freeway was 28/30 mpg. The acceleration provided by that little turbo motor is brisk enough. Despite those heavy 21-inch wheels, the ride is very comfortable. With the smaller 19-inch standard wheels, the comfort will be even smoother. A lot of great engineering went into the suspension design, and it pays off.
OFF ROAD
With good ground clearance and all-wheel drive, the Q5 can be taken off the pavement. This applies to light-duty chores on mild dirt trails. There are no low-range gears for serious trails, but this vehicle was not intended for that, so not needed.
HEADLIGHTS
There are no active headlights here, but the overall performance in the dark is still excellent. That front Audi grille is a tradition. Love it or hate it, everyone will know what brand you are driving!
