Size does matter.
This is not to say bigger is always better, but having a slight edge in dimensions does instil better sense of confidence and security - when it comes to cars that is.
And that is perhaps the reason why soft roaders are becoming big hits on the sales tally. These 'Jeeps for concrete jungles' were never bought with the intention of going off road. As such, most of them are designed for better urban manoeuvrability and efficiency.
In the same light, SUVs portray the style and image that normal sedans will never match up to, and it is these intrinsic values that make them so well received. Incidently, Audi is the master of these qualities.
Exterior
Amidst subtle revisions to the front and rear facets, it is the new LED treatment that makes the Q5 stand out. While other automakers are busy incorporating daytime running lamps into their new design, the trendsetter has moved on to create a halo-like stance, courtesy of the new continuous light strip. Viewed day or night, these lamps exude a distinctive ambience that is becoming a trademark of Audi offerings.
This is not to say bigger is always better, but having a slight edge in dimensions does instil better sense of confidence and security - when it comes to cars that is.
And that is perhaps the reason why soft roaders are becoming big hits on the sales tally. These 'Jeeps for concrete jungles' were never bought with the intention of going off road. As such, most of them are designed for better urban manoeuvrability and efficiency.
In the same light, SUVs portray the style and image that normal sedans will never match up to, and it is these intrinsic values that make them so well received. Incidently, Audi is the master of these qualities.
Exterior
Amidst subtle revisions to the front and rear facets, it is the new LED treatment that makes the Q5 stand out. While other automakers are busy incorporating daytime running lamps into their new design, the trendsetter has moved on to create a halo-like stance, courtesy of the new continuous light strip. Viewed day or night, these lamps exude a distinctive ambience that is becoming a trademark of Audi offerings.
Like how we'd look with square frame glasses, the bespectacled facet makes the Q5 look more civilised and refined. The rear lamps experience similar treatment, with the lamp assembly encapsulated with a continuous line of LED.
Also on the rear are tapered exhaust tips - now with a flat bottom that gains a more distinctive look.
Like a gentle giant, the Q5 retains the rounded overalls, giving it a softer, less rugged profile. In short, it isn't a car you would want to thrash around in mud with.
These slight revamps, as a whole, bless the Q5 with a very likeable look - quietly stylish and easy on the eye. In comparison, however, these changes may not be sufficient to give it a greater visual impact over the Evoque (which we reckon is still the best looking thus far).
Also on the rear are tapered exhaust tips - now with a flat bottom that gains a more distinctive look.
Like a gentle giant, the Q5 retains the rounded overalls, giving it a softer, less rugged profile. In short, it isn't a car you would want to thrash around in mud with.
These slight revamps, as a whole, bless the Q5 with a very likeable look - quietly stylish and easy on the eye. In comparison, however, these changes may not be sufficient to give it a greater visual impact over the Evoque (which we reckon is still the best looking thus far).
Interior
Matching up to the marque's credentials, the Q5's interior boasts impressive build standards. With good contrast from the various shades of grey, the interior on our test car felt modernistic. While it does feel cold to a certain extent when compared to tan or black, the grey bits exude a subtle, toned down feel that is easy on the eye.
The Q5 too offers a temporal space of tranquil, credits to the well insulated cabin and bolstered seats. The raised platform gives rise to an elevated view - a welcome feature for the driver and occupants which instils a better sense of security in packed traffic.
Matching up to the marque's credentials, the Q5's interior boasts impressive build standards. With good contrast from the various shades of grey, the interior on our test car felt modernistic. While it does feel cold to a certain extent when compared to tan or black, the grey bits exude a subtle, toned down feel that is easy on the eye.
The Q5 too offers a temporal space of tranquil, credits to the well insulated cabin and bolstered seats. The raised platform gives rise to an elevated view - a welcome feature for the driver and occupants which instils a better sense of security in packed traffic.
The Q5 will have no problems fitting five with ease. The rear bench can also be slightly tilted for a more relaxing ride. That said, the less bolstered centre seat is best left for shorter trips.
The SUV continues to offer commensurate amount of utility to suit the sporting lifestyles of people. The 540 litres of boot space will easily swallow loads, and is further expandable to 1,560 litres for more intensive load lugging.
The SUV continues to offer commensurate amount of utility to suit the sporting lifestyles of people. The 540 litres of boot space will easily swallow loads, and is further expandable to 1,560 litres for more intensive load lugging.
The Drive
The facelifted Q5 comes with subtle revisions to its drivetrain. For starters, the 2.0-litre four-pot is now up to 6 percent more efficient, and pushes out an impressive 225bhp - 14 more than the previous. In addition, its previous seven-speed has been ditched for an eight-speed unit - putting the X3 on level grounds, and making the six-speed in the Evoque look dated.
When left in 'Comfort' mode, it charms with its genuinely plush experience. Part credits go to the new gearbox. The cog swops are creamy smooth, and the extra ratios are adept in keeping the revs below 2,500 at highway speeds, which make cruising very relaxing and enjoyable.
When the occasion calls for it, however, the Q5 will not hesitate to swop its suit for dri-fit, ready to engage the driver in spirited runs. The 'Dynamic' setting spruces up the chassis to restrict body roll, at the same time tightening up the rack for a firmer steering.
The facelifted Q5 comes with subtle revisions to its drivetrain. For starters, the 2.0-litre four-pot is now up to 6 percent more efficient, and pushes out an impressive 225bhp - 14 more than the previous. In addition, its previous seven-speed has been ditched for an eight-speed unit - putting the X3 on level grounds, and making the six-speed in the Evoque look dated.
When left in 'Comfort' mode, it charms with its genuinely plush experience. Part credits go to the new gearbox. The cog swops are creamy smooth, and the extra ratios are adept in keeping the revs below 2,500 at highway speeds, which make cruising very relaxing and enjoyable.
When the occasion calls for it, however, the Q5 will not hesitate to swop its suit for dri-fit, ready to engage the driver in spirited runs. The 'Dynamic' setting spruces up the chassis to restrict body roll, at the same time tightening up the rack for a firmer steering.
Although the sportier setting is keen to induce a better sense of confidence over corners, the weighted steering still lacks feedback from the tarmac. Over road bumps and imperfected road surfaces, the harder suspension will also send judders to the cabin - a likely reason to spark some grunts from the occupants.
Conclusion
From the hands of Audi, the Q5 shines in the mechanical department, with efficiency and performance high on the charts. Among the various revisions, it is the well sorted ride comfort that bought us over.
While it may not stand up to the better looking contenders, it certainly does not lack the visuals. It is the right blend of smart looks, premium interior and technical prowess that make the Q5 a compelling choice in its segment.
It should not have any qualms bringing home the bacon for Audi.
Conclusion
From the hands of Audi, the Q5 shines in the mechanical department, with efficiency and performance high on the charts. Among the various revisions, it is the well sorted ride comfort that bought us over.
While it may not stand up to the better looking contenders, it certainly does not lack the visuals. It is the right blend of smart looks, premium interior and technical prowess that make the Q5 a compelling choice in its segment.
It should not have any qualms bringing home the bacon for Audi.
