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Audi Q5 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Audi Q5 ranks 1 out of 7 Luxury Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Audi Q5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Released just last year, the Audi Q5 remains unchanged for 2010. As Audi's first luxury compact SUV, it's slotted below the midsize Q7 and is based on the same platform as the A4 sedan.

Reviewers have plenty of praise to offer this young SUV, going so far as to say that is spectacular performance rivals sport sedans. "Q5 offers a level of refinement and cargo AND passenger versatility unmatched by most compact SUVs," writes Consumer Guide. "Those strengths, coupled with first-rate cabin appointments, put it at the head of the class. Prices can inflate quickly when options are added and Audi's MMI system still takes some getting used to, but overall, Q5 is a leading competitor in this quickly mushrooming class."

So far, the Q5's only major downside is its steep base price. Another sticking point is that it only offers a six-cylinder engine. Reviewers had hoped a more fuel-efficient option would be offered for 2010, but a hybrid model is now expected instead for 2011.

The Q5 comes in one trim with Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system. Since the 2010 Q5 is nearly identical to the 2009 model, this review uses data from both model years.

• "We came away very impressed by the 2009 Audi Q5. It clearly has surpassed the aging BMW X3 in terms of exterior styling, interior ambience, drivability, and comfort. Audi will face plenty of challengers in this segment, though, from the new Mercedes GLK and Volvo XC60, as well as from the existing entries from Acura, Land Rover, and BMW. " -- Automobile Magazine
• "In what has become a recurring theme for every new car wearing the four shiny rings, the Q5 offers just-right styling outside, a beautiful and comfortable interior and equally impressive levels of comfort and performance." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The Q5 does an incredible job balancing luxury with a genuinely sporting character. It's more than a strong competitor, but we'll have a truer sense of value when pricing is announced." -- Popular Mechanics
• "If you've already decided that you need one vehicle to do it all, the only reason not to consider the Q5 is because you're holding out for the new engine option in 2010. The Q5 drives like an A4, has the best fit and finish in its class, and is the best looking of the bunch." -- MSN

Q5 Performance - 9.0 (Excellent)

The 2010 Audi Q5 continues to stand out for its stellar, sedan-like performance. "This isn't the first time a manufacturer has claimed its SUV drives like a car, but the Q5 might be the first that actually does," says MSN. "Particularly when equipped with the active steering option, inputs are immediately translated into movement, and a stiff chassis derived from the A4 makes cornering entertaining." The only downside is that Audi still isn't offering a more fuel-efficient engine option. A hybrid Q5 model has been pushed back to 2011. Read More

Q5 Exterior - NA

The Q5 may look similar to other luxury compact SUVs, but some reviewers say its sporty, sleek exterior is even more appealing. "To us, this Audi might be the only truly handsome vehicle in the class," says Popular Mechanics. "And if image-conscious luxury buyers agree, we just might have a new pack leader." Read More

Q5 Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

The 2010 Audi Q5's cabin is par for the course when it comes to Audi - high in quality, high-tech and high on comfort. The only negative feedback is that the rear seat is cramped for three adults. "As in all contemporary Audi models, the Q5's interior is beautifully rendered in quality plastics, supple leather, and precisely engineered controls," writes Automobile Magazine. "It's a very pleasant place to be." Read More

Q5 Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

The 2010 Audi Q5 performs very well in federal government crash tests. The insurance industry has not yet tested it, but designated the 2009 model as a "Top Safety Pick." Read More

Q5 Reliability - NA

The Q5 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Read More