2009 Audi Q5 3.2 quattro Tiptronic

Style meets performance in Audi’s first compact SUV

By Nina Russin

2009 Audi Q5

This year, Audi expands its sport-utility lineup with the Q5: a compact alternative to the full-sized Q7. Built on the same chassis as the A4 sedan, the Q5 melds Audi’s race-inspired performance with sleek, upscale styling. Base price for the Q5 is $37,200, not including a $825 delivery charge.

Power comes from a 270-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The Q5 accelerates from zero-to-sixty miles-per-hour in 6.7 seconds. Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system maintains a rear bias under normal conditions, but can transfer engine torque between axles and wheels to maximize traction.

The Q5 tows up to 4400 pounds: well above our 3500-pound ALV minimum standard. A new navigation system displays maps with three-dimensional graphics, and includes real-time traffic updates ($3000). I found the graphics hard to read while I was driving: simpler is better to keep drivers focused on the road. Read the rest of this entry »