Audi's second generation Q5 is a premium mid-sized SUV that's ready to build upon the solid sales foundation established by its successful predecessor. Jonathan Crouch takes a look at what's on offer.

Ten Second Review

Audi's understated Q5 continues its subtle conquest of the premium compact SUV sector. This second generation model gets a range of more efficient engines and even more car-like driving dynamics that are great on tarmac and are even pretty effective for light off road use. There's loads of advanced technology and a beautifully practical interior crafted in Audi's own inimitable style. In short, if you can afford it, you'd like one.

Background

The second generation version of Audi's Q5 premium compact SUV might not appear to be much different from its predecessor but take it from us: almost everything that could have been improved on this car has been. There's sharper looks, extra technology and more efficient engines that have reduced running costs. Audi, you see, doesn't do things by halves.

Some things haven't changed though. As before, this is the kind of compact SUV you buy if, rather unreasonably, you want something with mastery of the mud as well as the motorway. Something that'll look great in the driveway, keep you mobile in a snowy snap and shrink around you when a twisting road opens up ahead. It's a demanding brief that nearly half a million global owners felt was achieved by the original version of this car. But is this latest generation version good enough to take on tougher rivals that promise much the same thing? That's what we're going to find out.

Driving Experience

Most Q5 customers will want the 190PS 2.0 TDI diesel engine but low mileage owners shouldn't discount the much improved 252PS 2.0 TFSI petrol unit. You can also talk to your Audi Centre about a 286PS 3.0 TDI six cylinder diesel too. The drivetrain of this mid-size SUV has been redeveloped from the ground up - take the revised six-speed manual transmission and the more efficient seven-speed S tronic auto 'box for example. The standard quattro 4WD system is improved too, using Audi's 'ultra' technology to always disengage the rear-axle drive whenever it isn't needed: if necessary, the system can then proactively re-engage it.

Go for the V6 diesel and Audi will offer you an optional sport differential at the rear axle which distributes torque between the wheels for sharper handling. And all models get Torque vectoring for extra cornering precision. Dynamically, Audi has tried to make this Q5 feel sporty yet extremely comfortable. Creating the basis for this are the newly developed five-link suspension set-ups and also the new electromechanical power steering system.

Choose a model with adaptive damping and you'll be able to tailor the ride quality via the various settings of the standard 'Audi drive select' vehicle dynamics system. You can do the same thing with the even more sophisticated adaptive air suspension package that's available as an option. Those venturing 'off piste' will be interested in the two new settings added to the 'drive select' set-up - 'lift/offroad' and 'allroad'.

Design and Build

Compared to the previous model, this second generation Q5 has grown in nearly all of its dimensions and takes a defined and taut stance on the road. A sculpturally flared Singleframe grille with a solid frame dominates its aerodynamically flat front end. This feature is flanked by headlights that use either xenon or full-LED technology - or buyers can order Audi's advanced adaptable Matrix LED system as an option. A distinctively curved and strongly undercut shoulder line gives structure to the side view. The strongly emphasised wheel arches are a reference to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, and the low greenhouse tapers back down early. Just as at the front, horizontal lines at the rear aim to convey an image of width and presence. The tailgate wraps around the C-pillars - a typical feature of Audi Q models.

Market and Model

The price positioning of this second generation Q5 hasn't changed very much, so most models will continue to sell in the £38,000 to £45,000 bracket. This time round, the key option is the 'Audi Virtual Cockpit' a 12.3-inch screen that completely replaces the dials in the instrument binnacle. The MMI terminal in the centre console acts as the main control element. In the top infotainment system, the optional MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and an 8.3-inch display, a touchpad is integrated into the rotary pushbutton. Many Q5 owners will want to order the upgraded 'multi-fuction steering wheel plus' and some may also want the optional Head-up display. The Audi navigation system will also be popular, the latest set-up able to 'learn' your regular routes and suggest optimised planning for your next trip.

Cost of Ownership

This second generation Q5 has taken a big step forward in terms of efficiency, thanks to a 90kg weight saving over its predecessor. This comes mainly courtesy of the fact that steels with maximum tensile strength and aluminium form an intelligent material mix in the body. It also helps in this regard that the MK2 model Q5 stands at the top of its class in its aerodynamics. The four-cylinder versions attain a cd figure of 0.30 with the aerodynamically optimised roof. As a result, even the petrol engines return surprising good running cost figures. The freshly re-developed 2.0 TFSI unit, for example, manages up to 41.5mpg combined, which equates to 154 grams CO2 per km.

Summary

Of course, this second generation model now faces much tougher competition, but the well considered package of changes made to this smarter, better equipped and higher-tech mid-sized premium SUV should keep it very competitive. Resolutely hi-tech and resolutely real world, the Q5 remains resolutely right.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Audi Q5

PRICES: £38,000-£45,000 – on the road [est]

INSURANCE GROUPS: n/a

CO2 EMISSIONS: [2.0 TFSI] 154g/km

PERFORMANCE: [3.0 TDI] 0-62mph 6.5s / Max Speed 140mph [est]

FUEL CONSUMPTION: [2.0 TFSI] (combined) 41.5mpg

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: Twin front, side and curtain airbags, anti lock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability control

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: Length/Width/Height mm 4660/1890/1660