For the ultimate experience without sacrificing comfort and performance, a luxury compact SUV may be the right choice. In the world today, the word luxury has always been associated with only one brand: Audi. This German company has risen among the ranks of the world’s car manufacturing industry with its quality production of cars that emphasize on safety, fuel efficiency, and performance. With all that said, the only car that fits the puzzle is the 2011 Audi Q5. This car company has garnered a lot of awards and recognition from various critics.
Performance
Currently, the Audi Q5 is available in two trims with two types of engines. The most basic engine is the 2.0T Engine. Under this engine, two trims exist: the Premium and the Prestige. The Premium trim has a 2.0L Turbo-charged 4-Cyl engine that is capable of a maximum of 211 horsepower. It has 18-inch wheels suitable for all seasons, and LED taillights as well. The twelve-way power front seats have a four-way lumbar control for maximum comfort. The car has adjustable heated exterior mirrors that have LED turn signals.
It also has a three-zone automatic climate control feature, seats with leather surfaces, and inlays made of wood. The Premium Plus has all the mentioned features, plus a music interface with iPod or iPhone compatibility, a HomeLink remote, a power tailgate, a panorama sunroof, and a set of xenon headlights that have LED lights for daytime. The 3.2 engine comes in the Premium Plus trim and the Prestige trim. Both trims have the 3.2L DOHC V6 engine capable of delivering up to 270 horsepower.
Exterior & Interior
In terms of overall performance, the Q5 is impressive. Both trims have an exceptional engine that has outstanding fuel efficiency. The build and dynamics of the vehicle has that fine balance between luxury, comfort, and sport. Arguably one of the most striking aspects of this car is its beautiful exterior. The front grille adds to the strong statement of the car, adding even more style and class to the vehicle. The metal finish is also clean and polished.
The interior is also superb, made with high-quality materials that ensure maximum comfort. However, the cabin size lacks the standard size of the cabin, and the rear seating is tight for most people.
Safety & Service
However, out of all the features, the best is its safety assurance. The vehicle has passed all the necessary tests of the government with flying colors. It has the standard safety measures like stability control, roof rack detection system, anti-brake system, brake-pressure distribution, anti-slip regulation and hill descent control. There are also optional features like the rearview camera, and rear side air bags. The vehicle however, has mediocre reliability based on the official tests of the government, with a four-year or 50000-mile warranty, 24-hour roadside assistance for 4 years, free first 5000-mile or 12-month service, and 12-year limited corrosion warranty.
Competition
There is also a likely chance that some people may want to look at other alternatives. The 2011 Audi Q5 may be expensive for most people, but one alternative is the Volvo XC60 (MSRP $42,150; 18 city / 25 hwy) has almost the same fuel efficiency, power, and all-wheel drive function at a lower price. The other is the BMW X3 (MSRP $41,050; 17 city / 24 hwy), which also has a lower cost, albeit significantly poorer fuel efficiency.
Pros & Cons
People may be discouraged by some of the minor flaws like the high cost, tight rear seating, and subpar cargo capacity, but the 2011 Audi Q5 shines with its luxurious look and feel, shrewd controls, sporty handling, and fuel-efficient engine.
Overall Rating
80 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2011 Audi Q5 feels responsive while it’s also fuel-efficient, with the new four-cylinder engine, though the Q5’s Audi Drive Select might not be worth the money.”Car Connection
“The Q5’s ride is composed and compliant; only sharp bumps register. Suspension settings can be altered to bias sporty firmness or softer comfort via the optional Drive Select system.”Consumer Guide
“The ride is steady and supple. Braking is excellent, with short stopping distances. The 3.2-liter V6 provides generous power and returns 19 mpg overall with the six-speed automatic.”Consumer Report
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact SUV | Base Price: $35,600.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 20 city / 27 hwy |
| Length: 182.2 in. (463 cm) | Width: 82.2 in. (208.9 cm) |
| Height: 65.1 in. (165 cm) | Curb Weight: 4090 lbs (1855 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 110.5 in. (280.7 cm) | Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 29.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 |
| Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged DOHC inline-4 FSI | Displacement: 121.1 cu in (1984 cc) |
| Horsepower: 211 hp | Max RPM: 4300 rpm |
| Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm | Transmission: 2.0 TFSI® with eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission and quattro® all-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds | 1/4 Mile: NA |
| Option:Premium Plus | MSRP: $39,900; MPG: 19 city / 24 hwy |
| Option:3.2 FSI® Premium Plus | MSRP: $43,000; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy |
| Option:3.2 FSI® Prestige | MSRP: $50,100; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy |
