Audi Q5 Has The ‘Wow’ Factor
The Audi Q5 is facing a tough competition from the best-selling Range Rover Evoque. Therefore, Audi has made a host of changes to the interior and exterior in a bid to boost the car’s appeal. The star of the range is the 2.0 litre TDI equipped with Audi’s outstanding dual-clutch automatic gearbox. This new engine is not just a faster machine but a fuel efficient, too.
Q5 gets a modest change to its design as it now has a restyled grille, bumpers, lights and bonnet. You can have xenon and LED lights optional which will cost ‚2,400 extra. The base variant features 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior changes are barely noticeable, slight trim updates and addition of new colours and materials make up the interior enhancements. There is also a three-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, a decent stereo, Bluetooth and auto lights and wipers.
The cabin is exquisitely put together as expected from Audi. It is spacious enough to handle five adults and the boot capacity is a handy 540 litres. The driver’s position is high which is great for visibility. There will be more engines available but this 2.0 litre TDI engine is the key launch engine. The CO2 emissions see a more tax friendly drop, from 184g/km to 159g/km. This also helps it to keep running costs low infect they are the lowest in its class. It will also face very low depreciation.
The Q5 is an excellent car on the road. The most noticeable change is the steering as it has increased efficiency due to an electro mechanical system. The driver relies on the Q5’s strong grip and a very solid body control. The engine pull is strong no matter what the revs and it works in line with the S tronic gearbox. The gearbox shifts are fast through its seven ratios. If you’re looking for talented off-roader than look elsewhere but Q5’s four wheel drive system will come handy in winter.
Although the Q5 has beaten its main rivals in sales since it has been launched, but now it has the Evoque to compete with and that means a mid life facelift. The changes to the interior and exterior are successful. The 174bhp 2.0 litre TDI ticks all the boxes and collaborates well with the dual-clutch transmission. This facelift keeps the Q5 fresh and at the top of its class. Having said that, Audi could have done more with the styling keeping in mind the eye-catching Evoque’s popularity.
