Audi Q5 - Look out Freelander!

Almost everything Audi has done in the last few years has worked. Late to the party with a big SUV? Don’t worry, we’ll make the sector our own when we get there (Q7). Show Porsche how to do it? No problem (R8). An object lesson in executive cars? This is how you do it (A6). And now we add the Q5. Is the Audi Q5 for sale yet? No, but as soon as it is (first models should be available in September) there are going to be some seriously worried manufacturers out there (think Land Rover with the Freelander, BMW with the X3 and Mercedes with the upcoming GLK).

The Q5 is a shade longer than its rivals, but it would seem, a darn sight more sporty, with a few new toys and suspension choices to hand. A trio of engines is available at launch, but I think it’s a fair bet we’ll be seeing a high-performance version in 2009. For now the 2×2.0 litre cars (a petrol and a diesel) are a good entry point, but the 3.0 TDI is the choice. This engine does a great job in the A6, and not such a good job in the Q7. But in the Q5 it will offer 0-60mph in a little over 6 seconds and 30+mpg. This car is going to be unbeatable in its sector.

I have become a big fan of Audi in the last few years but, although I’ve driven my fair share, I’ve never owned one. But, so long as the Q5 drives as well as I expect, I think this is the perfect car for Carla (L&M). Beautifully made; high driving position (for the less than confident driver); great auto-box (7 speed twin-clutch S-tronic) ample room for the dogs and decent fuel consumption. And, just to make it ideal, a decent turn of speed for when I have to drive it!

Well done Audi. Cracked it again!