Permanent all-wheel drive, imposing looks, decent ground clearance... isn't this what a real man dreams of? However, is it enough to feel confident on our dirt roads?
2011 Audi Q5
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
Despite their rugged appearance, urban "soft-roaders" often falter even on minor obstacles. To test what the Q5 is capable of, we took it to the hills of the Central Russian Upland and gave it a small off-road exam.
Any modern crossover is a search for a compromise between on-road behavior and off-road capability. In the Q5, this balance is almost perfect. On the highway, in terms of stability and steering precision, it can compete with many passenger cars. True, during sharp maneuvers, body roll builds up quite rapidly, but that is the price for off-road comfort. However, the fact that on small joints and rough markings the body responds with noticeable resonance is unexpected. Especially since the "German" handles more serious bumps with truly imperturbable calm.
Off the asphalt, the short front overhang and the permanent all-wheel drive quattro with asymmetric torque distribution allow the Q5 to confidently climb slopes up to 31 degrees. The 200 millimeters of ground clearance is sufficient for hilly country roads and crossing moderate fords. But it is better not to venture into ruts carved out by "Nivas" and UAZs with its 2807 mm wheelbase and clearance.
2011 Audi Q5
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
Driving
On the highway and on dry dirt roads, the Q5 is equally predictable and composed. The suspension travel is sufficient for light off-roading.
Interior
Without excessive design frills, strict but well-thought-out and comfortable.
Price
For the diesel version, it seems slightly overpriced.
2011 Audi Q5
© Photo: Sergey Krestov, 5 Koleso
Pros and Cons
- + Advanced all-wheel drive system, separate off-road mode, powerful torque of 500 Nm.
- - Noticeable vibrations on small bumps.
Specifications
Make and model — Audi Q5 3.0 TDI
Dimensions — 4629x1880x1653 mm
Engine — diesel, 2967 cc, 240 hp/4000-4400 rpm
Transmission — S tronic, 7-speed
Performance — 225 km/h; 6.5 s to 100 km/h
Competitors — Volvo XC60, Mercedes-Benz GLK
July 9, 2010
Author: Vladimir Makkaveev
© 5 Koleso