Audi Q5 2.0T S t ronic

Many SUVs are billed as being sporty to drive – but few can actually live up to the claim. One that gets very close is Audi’s latest 4x4, the Q5. We were impressed by its agile handling when we drove the entry-level 2.0-litre diesel for the first time in Issue 1,021 – so how does the turbocharged petrol model we tried this week match up?

This variant gets a revised and uprated version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged FSI engine found in sister company Volkswagen’s Golf GTI. It now produces 208bhp, and is mated to Audi’s new seven-speed twin-clutch S tronic gearbox, complete with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters.

Factor in a quattro 4x4 system which splits torque 40:60 in favour of the rear wheels, and the result should be impressive. On the road, the Q5 shows just why it’s at the top of the compact SUV class – it’s quiet, refined and very comfortable.

The engine provides effortless pace, and the Q5 races from 0-62mph in 7.2 seconds. Thanks to the 350Nm torque output, there’s plenty of shove in-gear – so much so that you can’t help wondering if the S tronic transmission really needs seven ratios. It shifts smoothly and quickly whether in automatic or manual mode, and contributes to impressive combined economy of 33mpg.

In corners, the Q5 shows off excellent agility, strong grip and limited body roll, with only vague steering holding it back. Equipment is generous, there’s plenty of space inside and more than enough off-road ability for most owners.

At £31,440, the 2.0T FSI is around £1,500 more expensive than the manual diesel Q5. The petrol car is also thirstier and costs more to tax. But it still comes highly recommended.