Sombrero, tequila, intelligent four-wheel drive: test drive the new Audi Q5. A conservative future: test drive the Audi Q5.

The five-door Audi Q5 is the most popular mid-size crossover in the premium segment. In 2011, 4880 cars were sold in Russia. For comparison, Mercedes GLK sold 3456 units, and the BMW X3 - 2205.

For some - the engine drinks oil in buckets, for others - replacement of either the bearings of the S tronic "robot" during the warranty period, or even the box itself. Units and assemblies from the owners modern cars Audi raises complaints. Especially hot on the forums are turbo engines and S tronic robotic gearboxes with their problems. The Audi Q5 crossover, of course, appears in this list, but after the planned update, the owners of such cars should have fewer reasons for dissatisfaction. To the envy of the owners of pre-styling cars, the modernized SUVs have undergone many changes.

At the rear, the updated car is given out by a new configuration of LEDs in the lanterns, a slightly modified bumper and a new form of exhaust pipes.

On the 2.0 TFSI modification, they began to put an eight-speed "automatic" instead of the seven-band "robot" S tronic even before the restyling, but only now we have the opportunity to ask about the reasons for such a castling. Of course, the Audi specialists who were at the presentation in Munich did not hear anything about the problems of the es-tronic, and the owners of cars with such a gearbox, in their opinion, are happy with everything. The representative of the marketing team assured that the replacement of the "robot" was not due to its unreliability. The Germans just decided to see what feedback the owners of the 2.0 TFSI modifications with "automatic" would have.

Hexagonal radiator grill, redesigned front and rear optics - it will be difficult to confuse a restyled crossover with a pre-reform one.

Audi engineers spoke more clearly. They, too, did not admit to the sins of the robotic gearbox, but said that the current eight-speed "automatic" ZF is already so efficient in terms of fuel economy that they can easily replace the S tronic. And in terms of the smoothness of changing the ranges, the "robot" is noticeably inferior to the traditional unit. However, no one is going to put an end to the "estronic" - work is already underway to create a "robot" of a new generation, which will be completed and the next "fifth".

As usual, there is a variety of Audi models rims pleasantly surprised. And this is not all the options.

The entire line of motors consists of new or updated engines, and it is gratifying that the Russians will feel all the alterations on themselves. The upgraded 2.0 TDI turbodiesel now produces 177 forces and 380 N • m instead of 170 and 350, respectively. Diesel V6 3.0 also increased the output - up to 245 hp. and 580 N • m (it was 240 and 500, respectively). A less powerful unit can still be paired with a six-speed "mechanics" or a seven-speed "robot" S tronic, and a three-liter one is available only with an "estronic". The most efficient heavy fuel unit is installed on the SQ5 TDI version - V6 3.0 biturbo diesel, producing 313 "horses" and 650 Newton meters.

High quality, convenient, functional.

Thanks to the Google Earth service, the navigation system draws a picture based on satellite images - it comes out beautifully and clearly. The cars of the 2013 model year have a modified lever for switching the "automatic" modes. Under the armrest there are buttons for heating and cooling the cup holders.

Leather trim for the dashboard visor can be ordered for an additional fee, and to dress the entire dashboard in leather, contact quattro GmbH. After restyling, the power window buttons and the trunk opening received a metallized frame (on all versions). The button on the end of the left steering column switch turns on / off the system of keeping the car within the lane. If activated, the car will steer on its own, but this greatly interferes when driving along country paths.

So powerful gasoline engines Q5 doesn't. But instead of the tandem of the atmospheric "six" 3.2 (270 hp, 330 N • m) and the "robot" there was a three-liter V6 TFSI (272 forces, 400 N • m) with a drive supercharger and an eight-speed "automatic". The Quartet 2.0 TFSI is also new. Recoil - 225 forces and 350 N • m. The unit is equipped with a combined injection, modified crankcase ventilation system, geometry piston rings to reduce frictional losses, as well as a water-jacketed exhaust manifold integrated into the unit. All this should not only reduce fuel consumption, but also reduce oil waste consumption.

The front seats are ideal for people with a tight build, and the slimmer riders lack support in the shoulder blades. The back sofa is firm, set at an optimal height, and the backrest can be adjusted in tilt angle. Legroom and overhead - the sea! You can even fit in three, but the average passenger will have to hug the wide central tunnel with their feet.

What the temptation was to jump into the dark blue Audi SQ5 TDI crossover! And when the car was started and a low-frequency gurgle poured out of the exhaust pipes ... But my willpower led me to the most relevant version for the Russian market - 2.0 TFSI with “automatic” (such cars also come with a manual gearbox). Inside, there are almost no changes. The widest adjustment range of the steering column and driver's seat, light fit, informative instruments, spaciousness and a sense of quality - everything is familiar. And the new steering wheel, MMI control unit and metal finish of the buttons on the door panels did not affect the impression.

Volume luggage compartment- from 540 to 1560 liters. Convenient form of compartment, voluminous underground, but the loading height is not the smallest.

With a 225-horsepower engine, the car with a curb weight of 1830 kg drives energetically. Filling the interior with a high "metallic" sound, the 2.0 TFSI unit allows you to feel confident at any speed up to 150 km / h. You can move around the city by supplying small amounts of fuel to the cylinders. After all, the peak of the moment falls on 1500–4500 rpm. You just need to get used to the low sensitivity of the gas pedal at the beginning of the stroke. The "four" has rich "lows", a noticeable revival from 3000 rpm and a perky character up to 6000 rpm. Remember that it's just two-liter motor with four cylinders, forcing an unlimited autobahn - after 150 km / h, the dynamics of acceleration pales.

The character of the Audi Q5 was tempered on the autobahns, which is immediately noticeable: even at speeds of 200 km / h, the car travels like a Shinkansen train.

The eight-speed "automatic" is among the favorites of engineers for a reason - he was taught to save fuel with a special passion. The eighth gear is already engaged at 80 km / h, but you can select the Efficiency driving mode, in which the highest range is activated already at 70 km / h, and a slight vibration appears on the floor from the fact that the car drives almost idle... The step changes are smoother than that of the S tronic “robot”, and in traffic jams the “automatic” is less likely to get confused in the picket fence.

Yes, there are rolls and diagonal swing in corners, but for a crossover, the Audi Q5 rides perfectly. Still there was less artificial effort on the steering wheel.

But in the rate of fire with the "es-tronic" automatic transmission can not be compared. In normal mode, the automatic responds to a kickdown with a delay of a couple of seconds - it has to jump from the eighth to the third stage! Sport mode does not fundamentally change anything: even if the gearbox has not eight, but seven gears, but acceleration comes with a hitch. And when you are already sparring with might and main in a straight line, and the tachometer needle zealously rushes to the red mark, the “automatic” still does everything smoothly. According to the passport, the reformed Q5 2.0 TFSI has become even more dynamic (7.1 seconds in acceleration to a hundred instead of 7.2), but the sensations suggest otherwise.

During the test drive, the 225-horsepower car drank 11-12 liters of gasoline per 100 km, but we also drove actively.

The automatic transmission works in the same way on cars with the V6 3.0 TFSI. But the phlegmism of the "machine" is leveled by the charge - 272 "horses" and 400 Newton meters from 2150 to 4780 rpm. Spurt to a hundred such a Q5 performs in 5.9 seconds, which I willingly believe. This engine does an excellent job with a full-size "k-seventh", and with it the Q5 turns into a sports car. Under a metallic ringing, mixed with the barely perceptible howl of a supercharger, the car rushes forward impressively: either from a place, or from medium speeds. Power, traction - everything is in abundance, even when the speedometer needle is approaching 200 km / h. But you have to pay for everything: for the full use of its potential, the "six" requires over 18 liters of fuel per 100 km.

Cross-country driving at relatively high speeds is not the Q5's strong point. The car drives harshly, vibration of unsprung masses is felt. Better to take your time.

The owners of pre-reform crossovers do not particularly complain about the suspension, although it's hard not to recognize the Audi Q5 as a harsh car. After the update, as the Germans say, the balance of the suspension has changed in the direction of comfort. But on the go, I still didn't understand what the creators had in mind. "Ku-fifth" rides just as tightly, repeating in detail the profile of the canvas. And on those rare potholes and potholes that come across on German roads, the Q5 shakes its passengers well. You can, of course, experiment with the operating modes of the Audi drive select mechatronic chassis. But excessive attention to road adversity remains in any mode - only the saturation of the broadcast changes.

If the speedometer reads less than 120 km / h, it is quiet in the cabin. If higher, then there are noticeable aerodynamic noise in the area of large side mirrors. And yet, even when you are flying an arrow on the highway, and the speed is approaching 200 km / h, the front riders can communicate without raising their voices.

The handling and feel of it changes noticeably from the selected chassis mode. For example, it is hard to drive actively in "Comfort" - the body rolls heavily, and wheel becomes almost weightless, which makes it impossible to quickly identify the drift of the front axle. In Dynamic mode, all this disappears: the crossover becomes collected, monolithic, but an obsessive heaviness appears on the steering wheel. As is the case with many Audi models, my colleague and I considered Auto as the optimal mode. Or, for example, Individual, in which you can clamp the suspension separately without weighing down the steering wheel.

The "charged" Audi SQ5 TDI, which will go on sale at the end of summer 2012, has its ground clearance reduced by 30 mm - now it is just an all-wheel drive station wagon with a high body. Price in Germany - from 58,500 euros.

And now, finally, the turn came to that very dark blue crossover with the SQ5 TDI nameplate. The atmosphere of the "charged" car is supported by 20-inch wheels, a quartet of exhaust pipes, and inside - a steering wheel beveled along a chord, seats with pronounced lateral support and metal pedals. And you already believe that this is an adrenaline rush, despite the fact that there is a diesel crossover in front of you.

In the basic version, the steering wheel of the SQ5 model is normal, but for an extra charge there is a wheel that has been sawn from the bottom. Shocking, but uncomfortable.

"Eske" got the original dashboard and the lever for switching modes "automatic", sports seats with embossing and overlays on the sills and pedals.

The fact that a diesel is hidden under the hood is indicated by the corresponding nameplates and the smell exhaust gases with sourness. The unit with two turbochargers works almost quietly, in the cabin there is not a hint of vibration. You vibrate yourself - from excitement. After all, the SQ5 is the first Audi crossover that quattro GmbH specialists have worked hard on. This is the first "esc" in the form of a SUV!

Biturbo diesel about 313 forces gives wings to a heavy five-door, and fuel consumption during the ride did not exceed 11 liters per 100 km. At the same time, we pressed the gas pedal heartily. If you drive calmly, then you can keep within 8 liters.

I will remember for a long time how 650 N • m is furiously imprinted on you in the back of the chair, how calmly the crossover gains 250 km / h and unswervingly drives in a straight line at such a speed. And how remarkably good the "machine"! It changes eight steps gently and almost imperceptibly, but as soon as the S mode is set, the drowsiness disappears, and the box reacts to fuel supply with an almost instant decrease in the range. And the pedal connection with the power unit is tighter, clearer.

By default, wheels with 255/45 R20 tires are installed on both axles, but rollers with 255/40 R21 tires are available as an option.

And the stiffness of the suspension is perceived differently in such a "ku-fifth" - it is here on business, like words that cannot be thrown out of a song. In the SQ5 TDI, the chassis is lowered by 30 mm, the elastokinematics has been reconfigured. Asymmetrical four-wheel drive means 60% traction at the rear axle under normal conditions. But do not flatter yourself - the car drives more collected than its "brothers" without the letter S in the name, rolls less, brakes a little better, but nothing more. And at the limit, the SQ5's understeer is even more pronounced. And this limit is not so far - the tires give up under the onslaught of almost two tons.

The Audi SQ5 reacts to steering deflections faster than its “brothers” without the letter S, but the crossover is not able to assure you that you are driving a passenger sports car.

Perhaps this is indicative, but the most vivid impression I have is connected not with the dynamics or handling of the SQ5 TDI version, but with its ... synthetic sound. The exhaust system has an integrated acoustic membrane with electronic control... In the Dynamic mechatronics mode, a deep, powerful, but slightly muffled roar of the engine is transmitted to the salon, which is heard throughout the entire operating range of the unit. You don't even think about the origin of this sound - it is so sweet! This is not a non-alcoholic beer that never tastes good.

Wide tires start to squeak early in corners, but thanks to good noise isolation, the driver may not hear it right away. On dry asphalt, the work of the all-wheel drive transmission is hardly noticeable, but on grass and gravel, the five-door responds with a smooth skid to the powerful fuel supply. In winter, it will probably be quite fun.

But until the desire to master the SQ5 TDI modification took possession of you, I will disappoint you - similar cars Russian market will not see. And a diesel car will be expensive, and its "biturbo-six" is too demanding on the quality of fuel. But the Russians will get an Audi SQ5 with a supercharged gasoline engine, but when is unknown. Regular “fifths” can be ordered from September 2012. And although prices have increased slightly for all options, the wide range of modifications and all-round talent will not let the Audi Q5 lose its title of the most popular premium crossover in the class. This title has been held by Q5 for the past few years. And who cares that motors love oil, and the S tronic doesn't claim to be a model of reliability?

Passport data

Audi q5	2.0 TFSI	3.0 TFSI	SQ5
Body
Body type	station wagon	station wagon	station wagon
Number of doors / seats	5/5	5/5	5/5
Length, mm	4629	4629	4644
Width, mm	1898	1898	1911
Height, mm	1655	1655	1624
Wheelbase, mm	2807	2807	2807
Front / rear track, mm	1617/1614	1617/1614	1638/1632
Curb weight, kg	1830	1915	there is no data
Full weight, kg	2365	2450	there is no data
Trunk volume, l	540–1560	540–1560	540–1560
Engine
Type of	petrol with combined fuel injection and turbocharging	gasoline with direct fuel injection and supercharged drive	biturbodiesel
Location	front, longitudinally	front, longitudinally	front, longitudinally
Number and arrangement of cylinders	4, in a row	6, V-shaped	6, V-shaped
Number of valves	16	24	24
Working volume, cm³	1984	2995	2967
Max. power, hp / rpm	225/4500–6250	272/4780–6500	313/3900–4500
Max. torque, N • m / rpm	350/1500–4500	400/2150–4780	650/1450–2800
Transmission
Transmission		automatic eight-speed	automatic eight-speed
Drive unit	permanent full	permanent full	permanent full
Chassis
Front suspension		independent, spring, double wishbone	independent, spring, double wishbone
Rear suspension		independent, spring, multi-link	independent, spring, multi-link
Front brakes	ventilated disc	ventilated disc	ventilated disc
Rear brakes	ventilated disc	ventilated disc	ventilated disc
Tires	235/60 R18	235/60 R18	255/45 R20
Ground clearance, mm	200	200	170
Performance characteristics
Maximum speed, km / h	222	234	250
Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km / h, s	7,1	5,9	5,1
Fuel consumption, l / 100 km
- urban cycle	9,6	11,4	there is no data
- extra-urban cycle	6,9	6,9	there is no data
- mixed cycle	7,9	8,5	7,2
Toxicity rate	Euro 5	Euro 5	Euro 5
Capacity fuel tank, l	75	75	there is no data
Fuel	AI-95	AI-95	diesel fuel

Technique

The platform and power structure of the body have not changed. The Q5's suspension is borrowed with some modifications from the Audi A4. The arms and subframes are reinforced and the travels are increased. The steering gear with variable gear ratio is equipped with an electric booster (ratio - 15.9: 1), and electronically controlled shock absorbers can be installed for a fee. The quattro transmission with an asymmetric Torsen differential splits the torque 40:60 in favor of the rear wheels. The body of the Q5 is 44.5% high-strength steels, 30.8% deep-drawn steel, and 12.3% and 3.3% ultra- and ultra-high-strength steels. The remaining 9.1% is hardened steel. The hood and trunk lid, suspension elements, subframes and some parts of the crumple zones of the body are made of aluminum in the “ku-fifth”.

The two-liter four-cylinder engine belongs to the EA888 family. This unit is familiar from many Audi models. The Q5 crossover got the most modern engine modification - with 225 forces and 350 N • m. "Quartet" with a displacement of 1984 cm³ is equipped with a combined injection (direct working at a pressure of 200 bar), as is done on the upgraded 1.8 TFSI engine, phase shifters are installed on both camshafts, and the exhaust is equipped with a two-stage valve lift system Audi Valve Lift. The engine has an improved crankcase ventilation system, the geometry of the piston rings (to reduce friction losses), and the exhaust manifold is integrated into the block. The assets of the supercharged "four" include a modified system of thermal control of the motor and a special coating of pistons and bearings, which reduces friction between parts.

The 3.0 TFSI direct injection V6 engine with supercharged drive is a true all-rounder. An engine with a 90-degree camber angle is already installed on almost all models from Ingolstadt. The aluminum "six" with a volume of 2995 cm³ weighs 189 kg and is equipped with a variable valve timing mechanism at the inlet and adjustable flaps in the intake ducts. The rotors of the Eaton Twin Vortices Series compact drive blower rotate at up to 23,000 rpm. The entire unit with two intercoolers and rotors is installed in the collapse of the block, the operating pressure does not exceed 0.8 bar.

Three-liter biturbo diesel V6 - exclusive! Of all the modifications of the Q5 model, it can be obtained only on the most expensive and fastest - SQ5. The unit with a working volume of 2967 cm³ is equipped with two turbochargers of different sizes. First, the one that is larger "blows", and on high revs a smaller "snail" comes into play. Recoil "six" - 313 forces and 650 N • m. Battery injection delivers a fuel mixture at 2,000 bar, and the injectors deliver up to eight injections per cycle. Cooling of the cylinder heads and pistons, the functioning of the phase shifters at the inlet - all this has been modified taking into account the work at increased loads.

In the eight-speed "automatic" ZF 8HP, the torque converter is locked in the first gear, immediately after the start of the movement, which provides good acceleration control. The box is equipped with an additional damper that reduces the level of vibrations from the engine, and the modification, working with a V6 3.0 TDI turbodiesel, has a heat exchanger tied to the engine cooling system and an electric oil pump that maintains the pressure in the hydraulic system when the start / stop system is operating.

With the conclusion to the light compact crossover Audi Q5, the Ingolstad-based automaker, has filled another niche in its model range that was previously "unprotected" and therefore weak point in confrontation with the Bavarian concern BMW and its brainchild BMW X3. By the way, Mercedes-Benz also did not remain in debt and responded with a Mercedes GLK crossover. It should be noted and two more rivals - Volvo XC60 and Infiniti EX35.

The new crossover from Audi has impressive looks. Created in the same style as other models from Ingolstad, among its classmates, the "fifth-fifth" stands out for its bright solutions in the form of a branded radiator grille, original optics and a swift silhouette.

In the outside world, I would like to describe the Audi Q5 with the words of characters from a famous TV show - "fashionable, stylish, youthful!" The coupe-like silhouette of the roof, a large trapezoidal radiator grille and branded optics with a "strip" of LEDs have become the hallmark of the new "crossover".

The tailgate with graceful LED optics and a dynamic line running across the entire area of the fifth door add solidity to the exterior of the crossover and adequately complete the stylish and dynamic image.

In profile, the Audi Q5 looks much more compact than its big brother with "ku-seven". But in fact, the beginner is not at all small: the length is 4.63 meters, the width is 1.88 meters. In terms of height, the Audi Q5 is far from the leader (1.65 meters) - among the tribesmen, only the Infiniti EX35 can boast of a lower indicator. But Q5 turned out to be harmonious and proportional. The stern with graceful LED optics and a dynamic line running across the entire area of the fifth door add solidity to the exterior of the crossover and complement the stylish and dynamic image with dignity.

The proprietary diode strip of the front dimensions has become the hallmark of Audi models.

And the interior of the Audi Q5 is already familiar to us from the Quartet and the A5 coupe. Ergonomics are high, fabric seats with mechanical adjustments hold passengers firmly, and the adjustment ranges are enough even for basketball players. We actually tested the "basic" version of the crossover, so it was not possible to experience the delights of the amazing Bang & Olufsen audio system, proprietary MMI system, three-dimensional navigation with a hard drive, active cruise control and other delights of life. So much the better, in the absence of "bells and whistles" you can more fully concentrate on the sensations from the behavior of the car. In addition, already in the basic version, "Ku-fifth" is equipped with everything necessary, including an electromechanical parking brake, chip key, dual-zone climate control, large center monitor and 8-speaker audio system.

The interior of the Audi Q5 is already familiar to us from the Quartet and the A5 coupe. There is nothing to find fault with: ergonomics at a height, the quality of materials is beyond praise.

Quite compact appearance It does not fit in any way with the largest wheelbase among competitors equal to 2810 mm. With such data, even three people are not cramped on the back sofa - there is plenty of legroom here. In addition, the backrests of the rear sofa are tiltable, and for a surcharge, the sofa can be "taught" to move longitudinally within 10 cm. In terms of the volume of the luggage compartment, the Audi Q5 is second only to the crossover from Volvo. With the rear seat backs up, the useful boot space is 540 liters, folding the second row, we get almost three times more - 1560 liters. In addition, the fifth door is equipped with an electric drive.

2.0 liter petrol 4-cylinder TFSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging produces 211 hp The maximum torque is 350 Nm, and it is achieved in the range from 1500 to 4200 rpm - an impressive figure. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h takes 7.2 seconds. The engine is paired with a new 7-speed S-Tronic transmission. With this "baggage" the Audi Q5 demonstrates excellent acceleration. In traffic light battles one after another surrender 6-cylinder rivals, who with annoyance watch the wedge-shaped LED lights of the "fifth".

Embossed front seats tenaciously hold the bodies of passengers in their arms. The adjustment ranges are quite sufficient. Even three of us are spacious on the back sofa. It is possible to adjust the backrest tilt, and for a surcharge, the rear sofa can be "taught" longitudinal adjustment in the range of 10 cm. With the rear seat backs up, the useful trunk space is 540 liters, folding the second row, we get almost three times more - 1560 liters. In addition, the fifth door is equipped with an electric drive.

In motion, the "box" quickly and smoothly clicks the steps like seeds. Overtaking without problems - you just need to press the "electronic" gas pedal, and the S-Tronic already knows about your intentions and the swift crossover immediately rushes along the flank. If everything is fine with a jerk at speed, then with a sharp start from a place, a noticeable delay is felt. It was only after a few hours of driving the Audi Q5 that the delay was overcome by experimenting with the accelerator pedal.

So far, only one 2.0-liter direct-injection and turbocharged petrol unit is available for the Audi Q5. 211 h.p. under the hood give odds to more "voluminous" rivals.

Front and rear of the Audi Q5, the suspension is double wishbones, coil springs, and cross stabilizers... As an option, you can order the Drive Select package, which includes adjustable shock absorbers. Clear steering, automatically changing the effort depending on the speed of movement sometimes does not keep pace with the actions of the driver. You have already slowed down to 20 km / h, and the steering wheel is still heavy, or, on the contrary, with a sharp acceleration, you are going to go into a bend, expecting to get a return effort on the steering wheel, but it is not. Otherwise, the steering wheel is clear, the reactions are sharp, the feedback is excellent. It's hard to find fault with the reckless handling of the Audi Q5.

The traditional audiovisual dashboard has excellent informational content. Already in the "base" the Audi Q5 is equipped with a 2-zone climate control, an electromechanical "handbrake" and an audio system with a CD-player. New transmission The S-Tronic clicks quickly and smoothly between the 7 steps.

On a flat straight line, the crossover from Ingolstad stands like a glove. No swinging on the waves, no extra steering, no hassle in a rut. True, on a long journey, the Audi Q5 may seem a little harsh - despite the fact that the "ku-fifth" swallows more pits with due calmness, all road trifles are clearly conveyed to the fifth points of passengers.

When starting from a place, a slight dip is felt, which takes some getting used to. Apparently the point is in the characteristics of the turbocharged engine.

All-wheel drive with a Torsen asymmetrical center differential by default divides the engine torque 40/60 in favor of rear axle... As a result, the Audi Q5 exhibits slightly rear-wheel drive manners. When the wheels slip, the Torsen instantly transfers up to 65% of the traction to the front axle - or up to 85% to the rear. Coupled with a non-switchable stabilization system, the character of the crossover is not only reckless and sporty, but also reliable.

The Audi Q5 is a combination of excellent handling, precise cornering, permanent all-wheel drive and quality performance. Such virtues can undoubtedly lead to new crossover with four rings on the radiator grille, a leader in the premium compact SUV segment.

Diode front and rear optics noticeably refresh the exterior of the Audi Q5, making it more modern and urban.

The cost of the basic version of the Audi Q5 with two-zone climate control, an electromechanical "handbrake", an audio system and a fabric interior starts at 1,630,000 rubles. For comparison, the 302-horsepower Infiniti EX35 in " full minced meat»Except for navigation it will cost 1,721,000 rubles, and the cost for a 285-horsepower Volvo VC60 starts at 1,696,800 rubles. The Bavarian BMW X3 with a 2.5-liter petrol engine costs 1,785,600, and the Mercedes-Benz GLK 280 - 2,070,000 rubles.

R uslan Galimov

The new Audi Q5 is a crossover released by the German concern in a new look. This is a spacious and comfortable car. Unlike the old version of the car, the new Q5 has a sharper look. On the headlights appeared led strip, the car has acquired an aggressive radiator grill, the corners of which are slightly beveled at the top, wide air intakes are placed in the molded bumper.

What's new in the appearance of the Audi Q5

The radiator grill itself takes up most of the front side car. The car has become more muscular and aggressive in appearance. Taillights have also undergone changes. The scattering of LED bulbs can no longer be seen. Lanterns have become more strict and graceful, having received diode light guides.

Like any other cars, they have their pros and cons. You will learn more about them from our material.

You will find the secrets of choice in our article. Here we have collected all the important and useful information.

If we look inside the car, we will find a completely different interior than in the old Q5. The interior has a different finish, the MMI control keys have become much smaller. They have become more functional and reduced in size. The seats in the car were heated before, but now it has become much more convenient to control this process. V different modifications car can be found different rudders and interior trim, which the customer can choose independently.

If in the old version the interior was predominantly gray and was made of plastic, then on the modern version of the Q5 the plastic changed color and began to respond to the fashion of modern design. There are cars with black plastic, while they do not look small or too dark, various rotating handles are chrome-plated, the central panel is made of brown wood. The cabin is comfortable to sit and pleasant to be. Plastic does not emit bad smell... The car looks expensive and dignified both from the outside and from the inside.

How the technical characteristics of the Audi Q5 have changed

First of all, the manufacturer changed the complete set of the engine and transmission. A new modification of the SQ5 has appeared: this is not just a crossover tailored for sports, it is a sports crossover with diesel engine! This engine is equipped with two turbo heaters in series, delivering a pressure of 2.2 bar at peak operation, giving the engine 313 horsepower. Horse power with an engine volume of 3 liters. In terms of thrust, the Audi SQ5 rivals the sporty Jaguar XKR: this is truly a breakthrough from Audi. Up to one hundred kilometers, this motor is capable of accelerating a car in 5.1 seconds.

The Audi engine is a real pride of manufacturers

In addition to this powerful engine, there is another modification with a diesel engine, but less powerful. Its volume is 2 liters TDI, and the power is 177 horsepower. The two-liter versions can be with a manual or automatic transmission, but the three-liter version is equipped only with a 7 S tronic automatic transmission. The manufacturer assures that diesel engines do not consume more than 7 liters of fuel per hundred kilometers.

There are modifications with gasoline engine: it is a two-liter TFSI with 225 hp. This modification is available with mechanical and automatic transmissions gears - 6 and 8 steps, respectively. The fuel consumption of this car is 7.6 liters per 100 km.

The second presented gasoline engine has a volume of 3 liters and a power of 272 hp. It only comes with an automatic transmission. The maximum speed that a car with this engine can reach is 234 km / h, but the fuel consumption will be approximately 9 liters.

You can also find a hybrid version of the car, which has a two-liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 221 hp. and an additional 54 hp electric motor. This car has an 8-speed automatic transmission. The crossover is produced only with all-wheel drive, and its fuel consumption is kept at around 7 liters.

How does the Audi Q5 behave on the road? Watching the video of the test drive Audi Q5

The Audi Q5 is a pure crossover. Despite its characteristics, it is not designed for off-road driving and is extremely reluctant to do so. The height of the car is 1615 mm, the width is 1900 mm, the length of the Audi Q5 is 4630 mm, the wheelbase of this car is 2807 mm, ground clearance is 200mm. From the factory, these Audi models are fitted with R20 and R21 wheels.

But on the highway, the car behaves like a sports car. The horses pull perfectly under the hood, and it feels like the car responds instantly to pressing the gas pedal. Those models that are equipped with an automatic transmission will delight their owners with a quick response. The machine works well and does not think about when to change gear. His work is almost invisible.

The SQ5 generally has an Audi drive select button located on the console. Press it and the Audi turns into a real sports car. The fact is that after this command, the machine opens the damper in exhaust pipe, due to which the exhaust sound changes. Quite an interesting option, although it may be useless. Of course, this is not the only change that occurs to the car after pressing this button: the suspension becomes more rigid when switching to sport mode.

All Q5s have a customizable suspension. There is also auto mode settings. The machine, depending on the road surface, will change them by itself.

There is enough traction for this car with any modification: it goes equally well both in a straight line and up a steep hill. When cornering, Audi behaves confidently, enters without problems even in sharp turns, there is no slightest hint of a skid. The Q5's brakes are excellent and grip at all speeds, keeping stopping distances to a minimum.

The new Q5 has new dampers, different springs and completely different suspension settings. The steering wheel has an electric amplifier, so driving a heavy car is easy and pleasant. By the way, the electric booster operates in variable mode, therefore it significantly saves fuel. In terms of handling, the car is not more difficult than an ordinary sedan, but much more comfortable than it.

The new engines will delight the owners, because they are much more economical than the engines from the previous line: they consume approximately 15% less fuel.

The gearbox is worth mentioning separately. The automatic transmission works quickly, shifting gears exactly when needed. The box has 8 steps, so that the engine is always in the most productive interval of work. An exception is the economy mode Audi drive select: it forces the transmission to shift into 8th gear as quickly as possible. Driving in this mode is quite problematic. As for the power, it is quite enough for all cars of this line. Audi Q5 easily goes uphill or on dirt road.

The new Q5 weighs significantly less than its previous version. This was achieved through the use of aluminum parts for the car body, and other steel, lighter and stronger, was also used.

The car has many systems to assist the driver. The car can warn you of a frontal collision, monitors whether you are tired, and if a car or motorcycle appears in the blind spot, Audi will warn you about this: a special light on the mirror will light up. The car automatically steers on bends, follows the markings. Of course, the car has a parking sensor with a color camera that will show everything that you have in the back of the car.

Prices and configurations of the Audi Q5

The cheapest Q5, equipped with a 180 horsepower gasoline engine, with mechanical box gear and having a minimum of options. will cost from 1,730,000 rubles.

A car with a diesel engine with a capacity of 177 horsepower and mechanical transmission costs from 1,870,000 rubles.

If you choose a car with a gasoline engine, the volume of which is 2 liters and the transmission is automatic, then you will have to pay for it from 1,940,000 rubles.

An Audi with an engine volume of 3 liters costs 2,200,000, and the same three liters, but diesel, will cost 2,320,000 rubles.

There are many other cars in the same price range, such as Chevrolet captiva, the price of which starts from 1,300,000 rubles, Infiniti FX35, the cost of which is from 2,100,000 rubles, Volkswagen Touareg, the price of which is 2,600,000 rubles.

Always a new generation of cars, it's really that new. New car, it means new technologies, new designs, new suppliers and even new employees. Let's check on a test drive in Mexico how well the German company has improved the second generation of the Audi Q5 crossover.

Until 12 years ago, Audi did not have a Q-series SUV in its lineup. The first large SUV, the Q7, came out only in 2006. But this model was too big for its size. As a result, many wealthy buyers simply did not like this car. Then in 2009 the Q5 appeared on the market, which took a niche in the market in the segment of small premium crossovers.

As a result, in a short time, the youngest became popular all over the world. The most surprising thing is that having taken this segment of cars by storm on the world market, the Audi Q5 in a short time took away market share from many competitors, overtaking even the Lexus RX in sales.

The growing popularity of crossovers around the world helped Audi in the most difficult period of time for itself, when the brand's profits began to fall catastrophically. Due to the popularity of the SUV class, the demand for the Q5 and Q7 began to increase. But the secret of the model's success is of course the growing popularity of crossovers around the world. Without its competitive edge, this SUV would never have become popular.

Thanks to the Q5 Audi company was at a new height. The Q5 crossover has become a real world bestseller. The impeccable interior, rigid body, good handling, practicality, capacity, a wide range of engine choices, original design and much more have become the secret of success for the Q5.

We tested the second generation of the Q5 crossover to see if it could new model replicate the success of the first model. And this is quite possible, since the Germans have improved every element of the car. But is it enough for the next step (or leap) forward to remain a bestseller in the market and gain even more market share, taking it away from strong competitors in this segment?

The 2017 Audi Q5 crossover is new in every way. Every centimeter of the machine, from the dashboard to every small component, is produced in a new plant in Mexico (San Jose Chiaapa), which was built from the ground up to launch the new model for promotion in the American market, as well as for supply all over the world.

In order to preserve the impeccable German quality of cars, Audi brought hundreds of Mexican plant workers (including engineers) to Germany for training. Then the workers of the Audi plant in Mexico underwent special training, and also gained experience on the line of the plant where the A4 model is produced.

This allowed new employees to gain not only invaluable experience, but will become a guarantee that new plant the Q5 will be able to cope with the increased demand for the crossover.

As a result, the plant will employ 4,200 employees who will be able to produce up to 150,000 vehicles annually.

And so, in order to be the first to experience the new crossover, it was necessary to go to Mexico. Only in the homeland of tequila, it was possible to check whether there was a chance of a rise in the popularity of the new car. As a result, it was very difficult for us to find any flaws in the second generation Q5.

The new Q5 crossover is based on the modular Audi MLB platform. And despite the fact that this architecture is at the heart of the new A4 model, engineers say that the Q5 has more in common with the next generation A6 than with the A4.