2009 Audi Q5

The 2009 Audi Q5 will be available with the usual array of Audi features, including the latest-generation three version of the MMI computer interface, power tailgate, keyless entry, Bluetooth hands-free phone, a Bang & Olufsen 505-watt 14-speaker sound system, and even a heated and cooled cupholder. Perhaps the most innovative feature, however, is on the roof. The 2009 Q5's roof rack features sensors that detect when it is being used to carry a load. The sensors feed the information into the electronic stability control system, which then automatically adjusts its operating parameters -- basically lowering the dynamic threshold at which it begins to intervene -- to compensate for the upward shift in the vehicle's center of gravity.

We came away very impressed by the 2009 Audi Q5. It clearly has surpassed the aging BMW X3 in terms of exterior styling, interior ambience, drivability, and comfort. Audi will face plenty of challengers in this segment, though, from the new Mercedes GLK and Volvo XC60, as well as from the existing entries from Acura, Land Rover, and BMW. Buyers in this category might also consider the new Audi A4 Avant, which shares its platform with the Audi Q5.

2009 Audi Q5s destined for America will use a direct-injection 3.2-liter V-6, good for 270 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. The V-6's power will be channeled through a six-speed Tiptronic transmission and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

The Audi Q5 offers plenty of unique features that give it a balance of functionality, luxury and performance. It will be the only vehicle in its segment with three-zone climate control, which lets drivers and passengers select their own comfort levels. It is the only vehicle with 40/20/40 rear seats that recline and offer fore-aft adjustment for the comfort of passengers and for balancing cargo-carrying capabilities. Audi is also equipping the Q5 with its signature LED tail lights as standard equipment. The 2009 Audi Q5 will offer standard hitch preparation for 4400 lb of towing capacity, which puts it at the head of its class. Also standard are roof rails with aluminum cross bars that sync with the Audi ESP system to adapt accordingly.

With sport and performance in mind, the 2009 Q5 was designed for function. It will be offered with a 270hp, 243 lb-ft 3.2 V6 FSI motor and 40:60-split quattro all-wheel drive, along with a six-speed Tiptronic transmission. The quattro driveline can deliver up to 65% of the power to the front axle and a maximum of 85% to the rear axle. The 2009 Audi Q5 will also be the first Audi product with Generation 3 MMI and navigation with real-time traffic information.

The vehicle comfortably accommodates five people in ergonomically designed seats that can be flexibly arranged. The backrests for the rear seats are angle-adjustable and easy to fold down by activating the remote release lever in the luggage compartment. The rear expands from 19.07 to 55.09 cuft in volume.

Standard on the 2009 Audi Q5 are a three-zone climate control, folding and reclinable 40/20/40 rear seats, LED taillights and roof rails for extra cargo capacity. Additionally, enthroning front passengers are twelve-way power seats, while leather and wood lines the cabin. A third-generation Multi-Media Interface (MMI) Navigation plus manages entertainment, communication and navigation duties while on the fly. Customers inclined to pulling trailers will find a standard issue hitch package rated at a segment-leading 4,400 lbs capacity.

Based on numbers, the 2009 Audi Q5 slips right in with the best of them. According to officials, the Audi Q5's main competitors are the Mercedes-Benz GLK 4MATIC ($35900, 268 hp/258 lb-ft), BMW X3 xDrive3.0i ($39700, 260 hp/225 lb-ft) and Lexus RX 350 AWD ($38200, 270 hp/251 lb-ft).

According to Audi, its upcoming Audi Q5 compact premium SUV has not only best-in-class fuel economy, but also secures the title for towing capacity. After perusing both manufacturer's and the official EPA's Web sites, we found that the competition was stiff for fuel economy ratings. The 2009 BMW X3 has a slightly better highway estimated EPA mpg rating of 24 mpg (versus the Q5's 23), but is off 1 mpg on its city rating (17 vs 18 for the Q5). We'd be more inclined to call this a draw. In the towing capacity battle, the 2009 Audi Q5 fairly thrashes its named competitors -- the BMW X3, Infiniti EX35, Land Rover LR2 HSE and Lexus RX350. All can tow cargo, so long as it's less than 3,500 lbs (or 1,500 lbs in the Acura RDX's case, and none in the Infiniti's). Meanwhile, the little SUV from Ingolstadt can haul 4,400 lbs.

The 2009 Audi Q5 will be powered by a 3.2-liter FSI V-6 with 270 horses and 243 pound-feet of torque. Gear selection is through an updated six-speed Tiptronic automatic, and a self-locking center differential can split power to front and rear tires, normally in a 60-rear/40-front ratio.

Notable options include bi-Xenon headlamps; a power tailgate; the largest sunroof in class; sideview assist; 19-inch wheels; Audi Drive Select, the slick system that manages throttle position, steering ratio, and electronic shock control for comfort or performance; and a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers.

Standard features abound, a requirement for the 2009 Audi Q5's feature-rich segment, and include LED taillamps; 18-in. running gear; an even better version of Audi's celebrated multimedia system, with 3D-enhanced navigation graphics, toggle-switch search functionality, and the capability to find the most fuel-efficient route; full leather seating; a 180-watt, 10-speaker sound system with iPod and Bluetooth synchronization; heated and ventilated front seats; a thermal heated/cooled cupholder; and a roof-rack sensor that signals the Q5 to adjust its suspension dynamics when the rack's crossmember is deployed. Maximum roof storage is 220 lb.

Notable 2009 Audi Q5 options include bi-Xenon headlamps; a power tailgate; the largest sunroof in class; sideview assist; 19-in. wheels; Audi Drive Select; and a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers and digital radio reception. The S-Line will ride on 20-inchers, also available with a chrome finish.