2016 Audi Q5

Audi thought it was time that the Q5 received an upgrade like its counterparts, and this vehicle delivers. Despite the clean lines and simple finishes, the company also has a high standard for how it runs. The Q5 gets great gas mileage and even includes a hybrid model. As with many Audis, there are upgrades galore, so each car can be unique to the owner.

What's New?What’s not to love about a best-seller in the compact luxury SUV sector? This update has been a long time coming, with the last Q5 debuting in 2009. The 2016 did get a standard panoramic sunroof, and there are many updates for premium packages. The 2016 Q5 has a hybrid model, which adds an electric motor to the V-4 gas motor. Don’t forget about the all-wheel drive, which is also now standard.

Exterior FeaturesThis vehicle is handsome inside and out. Though it is taller and a little more blunt, the still more rounded edges and car-like curves make it part of the sleek Audi family. It also keeps the signature Audi tall grille. The Q5 also handles more like a car, with responsive feeling and excellent turning with all-wheel drive.

Interior FeaturesThere is not much drama inside the Q5. There is no sub-par materials here, but the simplicity adds elegance. Like many in the brand, the Q5 has a center cockpit-style console that might have a few too many buttons. Of course the inside is customizable, from metallic to leather to oak trim. The sunroof isn’t there to give the allusion of space: There is enough cargo room for suitcases and still have a clear view out the back.

TechnologyThere is a lot of technology that comes with the Q5 – but only for the upgrade packages. Standard features include heated mirrors, Bluetooth, a 10-speaker sound system, Sirius satellite radio and iPod connectivity. If you want to upgrade, you can get heated seats, Audi Connect 3G wireless Internet, Google Earth mapping, adaptive cruise control, and a rear-seat entertainment system. You can also upgrade the sound system to Bang & Olufsen. Unfortunately, don’t expect a touchscreen center console.

Engine/Fuel EfficiencyAudi offers a choice of five different powertrains, each ranging in characteristics. The basic model has an energetic feel with 220 horsepower with an inline-4. The supercharged V-6 has 272 horsepower and has the most attractive feel. There also is the hybrid model, diesel model and the high-output SQ5, which delivers 354 horsepower. The Q5 has very good gas mileage for a compact luxury SUV. The gas models get 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the hybrid gets 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

SafetySome standard safety features include airbags and stability control. The design of this vehicle helps with visibility, such as large side mirrors and rear seats that don’t obstruct the driver’s view. However, some of the optional safety upgrades are standard for other brands. For a charge, you can get a rearview camera, Audi forward-collision warning system 'Pre Sense', blind-spot monitors or LED daytime running lights.