Extraordinary Rides

The Audi Q5 is a premium model with a price range of $46,000 to $67,000.

(C.A. Haire/Contributor)

Audi Q5 45 Sportback SUV is fun on and off the road

By C.A. Haire

Consumers seeking a multipurpose SUV with German engineering and sleek design should give the Audi Q5 a look. The base model 40 version begins at $46,000, and issues a 201-horsepower engine. This was an upgraded 45 model, starting at $48,000. This includes a more potent 2.0-liter turbo motor cranking 261 horsepower, hooked to a seven-speed gearbox, and all-wheel drive.

As always, there are options to raise the price, starting at $595 for this metallic grey paint (called Daytona Gray Pearl). The $1,400 sport package includes a stiffer suspension with larger 21-inch wheels and performance tires. How about $995 for that great Bang & Olufsen sound system? With more goodies too long to list here, the total fee came to $56,540.

The result is an excellent vehicle that’s pleasurable to drive in a variety of duties. For daily commuting, the cabin has plenty of room for people or gear. The ride is very smooth, and fuel economy on highway trips was 28/30 mpg.

With raised ground clearance and four-wheel traction, the Q5 can be taken on desert trails, as long as the terrain isn’t too rough. We also drove this rig on mountain roads, where it took tight corners about as brisk as a sport sedan. The factory did a great job on the suspension design, which is one of the better ones.

In a week of driving, we have only two complaints. First, there is a lot of shiny chrome trim in the cabin. It might look nice, but on a sunny day, certain parts can reflect the sun’s rays like a mirror, blasting passengers’ eyes in the process. This is not good if you happen to be the driver. This isn’t serious, but just annoying.

Also, there is a spare tire, but a compact inflatable that should only be used on street pavement. It won’t last long on dirt trails. But then again, who is going to take this fancy SUV in the dirt anyway?

For those who want more, there is the upgraded Q5 65 model. It has a powerful 362-horsepower plug-in hybrid motor, and other engineering features to impress. This will also cost more at about $67,000.

The Audi Q5’s cargo area is generous and holds lots of gear.