| This is Audi's first entry into the small SUV market, bringing with it many standard safety and performance features that were once options on other Audi models
Exterior styling on the Q5 includes a striking, clean single-frame chrome grill to enhance its height of 5 feet 5 inches, giving it one of the lowest roof lines in its class. This is complemented by a wheelbase of 110 inches, which is one of the longest in its class. This gives the Q5 a stylish and strong look that's not intimidating.
The only engine available for 2009 is a 3.2L direct-injection V6 producing 270 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. Audi's 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission comes standard; no manual transmission is available for 2009. An aluminum five-link front suspension and a compact trapezoidal rear suspension are standard. 18-inch allow wheels are standard; 20-inch available as an option.
All-Wheel Drive is constant, whereby the transmission will shift anywhere from 40 to 65 percent of its power to the front wheels as needed. This feature can coordinate with the optional Audi Drive Select, to allow drivers to select the type of performance they want (comfort, sport or individual) based on their desired drive for the day.
For off road use, Hill Descent Control allows the driver to climb down steep or rocky hills without having to utilize any foot pedals to drive the car. The Q5 has 7.9 inches of ground clearance, can climb slopes of up to 31 degrees and can handle up to 19.7 inches of water. Maximum towing capacity is 4,400 pounds.
A roof rack and crossbars with weight sensors are standard, along with Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) with rollover mitigation, which is also standard. The weight sensors let ESP know how much weight has been added to the top of the car, thus allowing it to recalculate the new center of gravity and thus program suspension, braking and handling accordingly.
Interior space goes up to 55 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) uses a dashboard screen and control knob the control audio, suspension, navigation (optional) and other car functions. There are also a number of storage areas throughout the vehicle
Standard equipment includes antilock brakes, traction control, an anti-skid system, curtain side airbags, front and rear side airbags, leather upholstery and an audio system with eight speakers. Comfort features include rear seats that recline up to two inches and a central A/C panel for the third row of seats.
A variety of option packages are available, to include rear camera, Bluetooth, intelligent speech control system, iPod interface and MP3 storage, 14-speaker 504-watt Bang & Olufsen system, temperature-controlled drink holders, keyless access, tire pressure monitoring system, panoramic sunroof with tilting function, Audi adaptive light (for cornering), electric tailgate and swiveling trailer hitch.
Other options include Audi Drive Select, Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains a safe distance between the Q5 and the vehicle in front of it, lane departure warning system, and Audi Side Assist for changing lanes safely. |