Audi Q5 (08 on) - Review

The Q5's keen handling doesn't come at the expense of comfort. So while the ride is firm, it's also forgiving and irons out uneven and bumpy roads superbly. Audi's optional 'drive select' system can be specified with damper control - basically a system allowing you to alter the suspension settings from 'sport' to 'comfort'. It works well and there's a noticeable difference in the ride and handling between settings. The seats are exceptionally comfortable with decent side support and at motorway speeds there's only minor wind noise inside the cabin.

With 540 litres of boot space the Q5 boasts better luggage room than the A4 Avant - it can also carry more than alternatives like the Volvo XC60 or BMW X3. With a wide load area and small boot lip, loading and unloading bulky or heavy objects is easy. Usefully there's also extra storage hidden below the boot floor and although rear legroom isn't huge, the Q5 is still practical enough for families. An optional sliding seat allows the rear bench to split fold and slide back and forth independently. In the front there's plenty of stowage including decent door pockets, a large central cubby and a good-sized glovebox. There's also the option of a clever 'climate cup holder' which cools drinks to 3C or can heat them to 58C.

Interior build quality is everything we've come to expect from Audi. All the materials used, from the brushed aluminium trim to the leather upholstery on top models, have a touch of finesse to them. The finish is superb too - the buttons and switches for the main controls work with real precision while the soft-touch dashtop plastics add to the premium appearance. The lofty driving position means visibility is good, there's an electric parking brake as standard plus Audi's MMI control system for the stereo and optional sat nav is simple and intuitive to use.