What is it?

Audis are all about offering a premium image in a practical package, and the Q5 is one of the brand’s best-selling models.

It’s now in its third generation and competes in the highly competitive sector of premium SUVs – rivalling the Mercedes GLC and BMW X3.

The German firm has stuck to internal-combustion power with this latest model, with more efficient powertrains than before – making it more affordable to run.

What’s new?

The latest car is all new, with a redesigned exterior and interior that features premium and sustainable materials.

All of its engines come with the firm’s mild-hybrid plus technology, which allows the car to coast around town on electric power alone.

There is more interior space than before, as well as an increase in its boot capacity, making it more attractive for families.

Plus, there is a performance-focused SQ5 variant that features more power and sportier exterior and interior details.

What’s under the bonnet?

There is a choice of three different engine variants.

We’ve been driving the 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that develops 201bhp and 400Nm of torque. It takes the car from 0-60mph in 7.2 seconds and will reach a top speed of 140mph.

There are a further two petrol engines, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit with 201bhp or a larger 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged engine found in the spicier SQ5.

All cars come as standard with an automatic gearbox along with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

What’s it like to drive?

This new car is very comfortable, with its cabin doing an excellent job of eliminating wind and road noise. The ride is smooth and doesn’t jolt the car when coming into contact with larger defects in the road.

The diesel engine is refined and punchy, with the car holding its own on the motorway.

Around town, the mild-hybrid plus technology helps reduce emissions and makes the whole experience very relaxing. Plus, visibility is excellent due to the large side windows and smaller C-pillars.

How does it look?

Throughout its life, the Q5 has changed subtly and this new one is no different.

At the front, there is a fresh radiator grille, which the firm calls its ‘singleframe’, as well as new headlights that feature 15 segments to alter their brightness.

There is a variety of alloy wheels, but our test car sits on larger 20-inch designs, with other models getting bigger 21-inch versions.

Our car’s side profile gets sportier gloss black window surrounds, lower body mouldings on the doors, and body coloured wheel arch mouldings.

Meanwhile, at the back, there is a full-width light bar that utilises Audi’s OLED lighting technology, along with the lower bumper receiving a honeycomb mesh effect.

What’s it like inside?

The dashboard is festooned with screens, including an 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit driver’s display and a 14.5-inch infotainment screen that is slick and easy to use.

Our test car comes with an additional 10.9-inch passenger screen which will be available on the top trim level in the UK. It allows the front passenger to control the infotainment screen without disturbing the driver.

Audi has done away with lots of physical buttons, but at least there is haptic feedback to make it more intuitive to use.

In terms of storage, there are plenty of cubby holes for all your belongings including a deep glove box, large front door bins and two cup holders.

Boot space is impressive, with a total of 520 litres or 1,473 litres with the rear seats folded. And, mid-level cars and above come with a sliding back seat to increase space in the back further.

What’s the spec like?

Equipment in Audis has improved over the years, with the Q5 getting a lot of standard features.

The entry-level Sport is priced at £49,980 and features electrically adjustable front seats, adaptive cruise control, 19-inch alloy wheels and a 10-speaker sound system.

We’ve been driving the mid-level S Line priced at £52,580. It boasts privacy glass, sports suspension and enhanced S Line exterior and interior styling.

The flagship Edition One is priced from £56,780 and adds matrix LED headlights, 21-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers.

Verdict

The Audi Q5 has grown a reputation for being a safe and sensible offering in the premium SUV sector.

Thankfully, this new model is no different. It’s comfortable, refined, efficient and very practical.

It’s not the most exciting car in this sector, with a rather bland driving experience and plain exterior styling. But, if you want an SUV that oozes class, has a premium feel and is affordable to run, then the Q5 should definitely be on your shortlist.