Audi Q5 V6 TFSI 2012 review

Technology bundles itself up within Audi's mid-life, five-engined model range that promises more economy, more luxury for only a little bit more money.

The most popular single Audi model on sale in Australia, the Q5 continues to win tight fights with rivals and now takes technology into battle. Now revised for, perhaps, another five years, it goes on sale in Australia in December priced from about $65,000.

High on the list of changes is the introduction of clever safety and infotainment systems that sit beneath Audi's smart Connect system. Prices are likely to remain about the same as before but Audi Australia spokesperson Anna Burgdorf says it's likely that local customers will get more features for the price.

For example, options such as a rear camera and the adjustable drivetrain system, Drive Select, could be bundled into the price of the V6 models, while the four-cylinder models could get extra features such as bigger alloy wheels, keyless entry and dtart and Drive Select.

Ms Burgdorf says pricing is still being worked on. The model that will get a lot of interest is the 3-litre V6 supercharged petrol TFSI - a new engine from Audi that replaces the 3.2-litre V6 petrol.

VALUE 

Given Audi Australia's stance on remaining highly competitive, the updated Q5 range looks good. A final opinion will come when the car is launched but for now, the model sits well with market demands for a prestigious SUV with very high build quality and a remarkable drivetrain mix.

The new supercharged V6 petrol will cost about $75,000 - based on the price of the outgoing 3.2 - which is at the top of the food chain aside from the new SQ5 sports SUV. It gets extras over the outgoing model including an eight-speed automatic and better fuel consumption while being faster. Rivals are keen not to let this one get too far ahead but on drivetrain technology alone, this SUV has an edge. 

DESIGN 

Changes for the new series are minimal. Overall, the Q5 has xenon headlights and LEDs listed as options though the supercharged engine may - indeed should - have these as standard. Cabin trim is typical Audi and the quality has not been compromised even though prices have barely altered. There are subtle body tweaks but you have to look hard. For example, the dual tail pipes have flattened bottoms.

TECHNOLOGY 

There are changes to the existing engines plus the new electric-mechanical steering system that is designed to save engine load (and therefore improve fuel economy) while making it easy to integrate into the Drive Select system.

The supercharged engine boasts 200kW/400Nm (up 5kW/70Nm on the 3.2) yet slashes one second in the 100km/h sprint to 5.9 seconds and reduces fuel use to an average of 8.5 L/100km. There is also an eight-speed automatic gearbox with shift paddles.

All engines in the Q5 range are boosted - either turbocharged or supercharged - starting with the 2-litre pair of the TFSI and TDI. Audi sells a hybrid Q5 in Europe, China and the US but it's a no show for Australia. Just as well for its fuel use is similar to the 2.0 TFSI.

There are other interesting bits such as the Connect infotainment system that picks up on Google Earth and has internet access for rear-seat passengers. Audi's optional MMI navigation now has just four fixed keys for the navigation, telephone, radio and media functions. Also, only one button is needed to operate the Drive Select system.

SAFETY 

The Q5 range carries over the five-star crash rating of the previous model. It also has a similar airbag count and electronic aids. Australia gets a space-saver spare.

DRIVING 

The supercharger's performance is impressive in terms of its acceleration and on-tap power, but it misses the aural theatre of other engines with a booster. For one, I miss the subtle whine as the supercharger winds up. But maybe modern families want peace and quiet - a feat the V6 does well even at 200km/h plus speeds on the German autobahn.

But though very strong from idle and with immense muscle in the mid-range of the tachometer dial, its deliver is almost equal to the remarkable performance of the 2.0 TFSI version also driven on this launch. This is a much modified small-bore turbo-petrol that is worth a long hard look. Okay, back to the supercharged V6 that adds solidity on the autobahn with accuracy through the bends.

Enthusiasts must opt for Drive Select (if it's an option) to tailor their driving demands. The SUV remains roomy, comfortable and flexible but the choice of engine is critical for the owner to get the best from the car. In this regard the V6 is really, really nice but unless you are towing, the 2-litre TSFI is probably better (and certainly cheaper) while the diesels cover all ground.

Audi Q5 V6 TFSI

Price: est. $75,000
Warranty: 3 years/unlimited km, roadside assist
Resale: n/a
Service interval: 15,000km/12 months
Safety rating: 5-star
Spare: Space-saver
Engine: 3-litre V6 supercharged petrol 200kW/400Nm
Transmission: 8-spd Tiptronic auto, AWD
Body: 4.6m (L); 1.9m (w); 1.6m (h)
Weight: 1845kg
Thirst: 8.51/100km; 98RON; 199g/km Co2