IN the grander scheme of things, the finer details are sometimes worth noting when it comes to making a decision.
In the Audi Q5, much of the expectations of this streamlined people carrier have been fulfilled by the popularity of SUVs that continues to dominate the automotive industry. Be it petrol, diesel or electric, the form factor of the larger vehicle will still unfathomably appeal to a majority.
So, what will set the Audi Q5 apart, other than space, ride comfort and safety features?
The Audi Q5 S Line 2.0 TFSI Quattro S tronic is a mouthful to remember.
Hot Q5 Features
Just know that this update of the second generation has new taillight clusters which feature OLED technology that sends out patterns to mesmerise anyone following you.
It has a honeycomb black grille for the S Line variant and the profile of the air vents give it a more purposeful poise.
But from the side, it’s still large and somewhat chunky and, depending on the perspective, feels like it’s been caught in mid-evolution. The front and rear may be better balanced in subsequent iterations.
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Inside, it has a larger touchscreen, it doesn’t have a touch pad or a dial and has wireless charging available on a sliding rack.
That last feature is a sweet one for those who value their relationship with their smartphone.
And in the comfortable cabin of the Q5, with loads of space and smart leather and a cleanly designed dashboard, the quality shows. At a price tag in excess of *S$270,000 you would expect the top-drawer finishing.
If you want a smooth, comfortable ride the Q5 will deliver that. You probably wouldn’t even bother working your way through the various drive modes.
Saving The Planet
Along with the ultra technology, which manages how the power is distributed to the wheels, and the two-litre, mild hybrid, four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which allows for coasting, fuel efficiency is one of the strong suits of the Q5. So, you’ll be saving some cash along the way, and you can feel good about doing your bit for the planet.
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For those who want the occasional lead-footed dash about, the Q5 is probably not going to cut it. It seems sluggish, especially on setting forth, though it does accelerate to 100khm in 6.3 seconds, which is not slow for a 4.68 metre beast.
But the well-cocooned compartment probably leaches the excitement from the process.
But it holds its shape well when charging round corners, the seven-speed S tronic smoothly navigating the gears and measuring out the 183kW of power being generated.
In the final assessment, the Audi Q5 delivers as expected in the looks and comfort departments, though the wheel arch gap could have been reduced.
But it seems a bit less than energetic when more is required of it.
Audi Q5 S Line 2.0 TFSI Quattro S tronic RATING
Styling: 6.5/10
Interior: 8/10
Connectivity: 8/10
Ride: 7.5/10
Handling: 6.5/10
Power: 6.5/10
Overall: 7/10
*Please reconfirm price with dealer.
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