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AUDI Q5 S LINE 40 TDI QUATTRO S TRONIC by Tony Yates
The Audi Q5 has long been one of the most popular large SUVs out there . That ’ s no surprise , given that it sits in a sweet spot when it comes to size , has a great interior and gives you a good mix of sportiness and everyday usability .
In fact , the Q5 ( which sits between the smaller Q3 and the larger Q7 and Q8 in the Audi range ) has the potential to be an attractive prospect to almost every car buyer .
Power and Efficiency : The Q5 I had on test was fitted with a 204PS , 2.0 litre TDI diesel engine that has 400NM of torque and can accelerate from zero-to-62 mph in 7.6 seconds and will reach a maximum top speed of around 138mph . So , does it go well ? Yes , to be fair it moves like a missile and it ’ s as smooth as you like easily popping through the gear changes quickly thanks to a wonderful 7 speed S tronic dual-clutch . Let ’ s not forget the ‘ Quattro ’ system either . Simply stunning .
On and off-road : The steering is accurate in whatever situation unfolds itself on the road and the chassis and grip levels are all good thanks to that wonderful ‘ Quattro ’ system . The Q5 is also a very engaging drive , but you need to remember that this car is not a raw seat of your pants drive - even with the ‘ Quattro ’ badge nailed to the tailgate .
When you do finally find the right road to get the hammer down , the Q5 fits in perfectly with the road ahead thanks to the Quattro engineers making the chassis and suspension work at optimal levels while keeping you safe and secure on the road while monitoring driving dynamics , road conditions and driver behaviour . Of course , if you want to take the Q5 to a place where speed limits don ’ t matter – then the Quattro system will be ready and on-demand to help you engage your inner demon .
Design & Technology : Standard equipment highlights include ; Auto-dimming rear-view mirror , 3-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning , Antitheft alarm system , Electrically opening and closing boot , Keyless Go , Audi virtual cockpit plus MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch , 8 passive loudspeakers , DAB radio , Audi Connect Safety & Service ( including vehicle scheduling ) Audi Smartphone Interface , Bluetooth Interface , Assistance systems , Audi Pre-sense City , Audi Parking System Plus , Hill Hold Assist , Cruise control with speed limiter , Reversing Camera , Audi drive select , Driver and front passenger airbag with front passenger airbag deactivation and 19 ” x 8.0J ‘ 5-twin-spoke star ’ design , diamond cut finish alloy wheels with 235 / 55 R19 tyres .
In summary : The Q5 is a brilliant car – but what makes it stand out from the rest is its ability to look good and drive even better . I would not rule out taking a look at the Audi Q5 because it has some great features along with a brilliant chassis and a firm sense of reliability on its side .
Price from : £ 47,225
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