America Discovers Its Love For The Audi Q5 – The Best Luxury Compact SUV

The Audi Q5 was analyzed by many experts, and after 29 independent reviews, the 2011 Audi Q5 emerged as # 1 out of 8 best luxury compact SUV contenders. Analysts rave about the sporty performance, the sleek and stylish exterior, and the luxurious interior. This Audi offers many amenities while maintaining the drivability for daily commutes or errands. The only drawback for this model seems to be the relatively high price. The base model starts around $35,000. The upgraded model with a 3.2 liter V-6 engine and a few options, can easily reach the $40,000 mark. The estimated base price for the 2012 Audi Q5, 2.0T Quattro Hybrid will be around $50,000.

Highlights of the Best Luxury Compact SUV

This best luxury compact SUV is available in different trim levels, engines, and with a wide array of options. This model is offered with a 2.0 l turbocharged, 4 cylinder engine with 211 hp, or a 3.2 L DOHC, V-6 engine with 270 hp. The base model is listed with 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway. The 3.2L version gets 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

The overall look of the Q5 is stunning and unmistakably makes it stand out among competitors. It is a very sophisticated looking luxury compact SUV. Exterior features include Xenon Plus headlights with LED, daytime running lights, a single frame grille, LED taillights, and adaptive headlights.

The interior is luxurious, and the premium materials used in the Q5 include dark brown walnut wood, and aluminum brushed inlays. The state of the art navigation system with a 40 GB hard drive and stunning 3D images on a full 7” screen is located in the center console. The panorama sunroof is divided in two panels, and offers an open view overhead. A power sunshade lets the owner decide how much light enters the vehicle from overhead, all of them great features for the best luxury compact SUV.

The three-zone climate control ensures that all passengers are comfortable. The Q5 has plenty of storage compartments inside. The cargo area is spacious and has a 57.3 cu. ft. capacity. The front seats are twelve-way power seats with four-way power adjustable lumbar supports. The rear seats are adjustable and recline. This enables passengers to sit more comfortably in the rear on longer rides.

The safety features of this best luxury compact SUV are top of the line. It features ABS, a brake assist system, electronic brake distribution, and an electronic traction control. The Electronic Stabilization Control is another safety feature the Q5 offers. This Audi received the highest ratings for front, side, and rear crash tests. The roof strength rated exceptionally as well. Many more safety features are standard on the Audi.

Trim levels are the 2.0T Premium, the 2.0T Premium Plus, the 3.2 Premium Plus, and the 3.2 Prestige. Options include heated front seats, an advanced key-less entry system, Audi music interface with iPod/iPhone integration and a Bang& Olufsen Sound System. The adaptive cruise control and braking guard is available in the 3.2 Prestige level. The Audi drive select system offers 27 different driving configurations. Drivers can literally select how they like their Audi to perform and drive.

Even though the relatively high price for the base model may deter some prospective buyers, the overall quality, performance, and advanced safety features will change the mind of many. The Audi Q5 definitely deserves to be called the best luxury compact SUV on the market.

Best Luxury Compact SUV – Audi Q5 Review Video

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Image Source 1 By S 400 HYBRID (own photo) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source 2 By S 400 HYBRID (own photo) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons

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