After exploding onto the scene in 2009, the
2012 Audi Q5 carries on virtually unchanged
Last year's models received a few mid-life
upgrades designed to keep it at the top of its
class. The stylish crossover is essentially a
miniaturized Q7, offering top-shelf luxury with
crossover sensibility. During the previous
model year, the Q5 added the automaker's
new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
with 211 horsepower on tap, mated to a new
eight-speed automatic transmission. Both of which are a first for the segment and are aimed at
raising the Q5's fuel economy above that of the competition. The Q5's V-6 models carry on with
an S-line package offered for 2012.
The 2012 Audi Q5 offers the most rear-seat legroom thanks to its best-in-class wheelbase, which is the distance between the front and rear wheels. Cargo capacity, however, trails the class and overall interior space is only average for the segment. The Q5's ground clearance isn't particularly noteworthy either, but is competitive for its segment. Overall the Q5 does a good job of delivering some of the finer attributes we've come to expect from Audi, in a crossover body style.
