Long-term wrap up: 2010 Audi Q5
Vehicle: 2010 Audi Q5 3.2 Quattro Premium
Price as tested: CDN$49250
Mileage since picked up: 16500km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0
Audi’s first attempt at the compact premium SUV has been a successful one. Its not only our long-term Q5 3.2 Quattro has proved to be reliable over the vigorous testing, its quickly become the new benchmark in this very competitive segment.
The 265hp 3.2 liter V6 with 6-speed Tiptronic is an economical one. Our test average of 14 liters per 100km is surprisingly economical given its weight. While its not available with S-Tronic Direct Shift Gearbox as the rest of the world, its 6-speed Tiptronic has coordinated shift characteristics with right gear ratios for all occassions.
In terms of driving experience, the dynamic abilities have been proved to be the best-in-class. Along with the Torsen Quattro and a rigid platform, a right set of tires have made Q5 pretty much unstoppable in snowy and rainy weather.
Our only pet peeve has to do with its MMI-1 system. While the uplevel MMI-2 and MMI-3 have knob placed below the gear lever to control all the functions in the Audi Infotainment System. One has to use the smaller knob above the auto climate control to scoll all the functions on the screen. Other than that, the interior is well-finished with class-leading materials.
If you are looking for a sporty, comfortable and stylish compact SUV with a prestigous emblem on the hood; you should put Audi Q5 on top of your shopping list.
We will introduced a new member of the long-term test on our future update.