Skip advert
Advertisement

Audi Q5 review (2008-2017) - can Ingolstadt's best SUV challenge the BMW X3? - Design

The Q5 is the best of Audi’s competent SUV range

Evo rating
RRP
from £32,580
  • Well-sorted chassis, stylish looks inside and out, mega SQ5
  • steering lacks feel, dynamics not as sharp as BMW X3

Design

We like the Q5 best of all when considering Audi’s ‘proper’ off-roaders, as it strikes the right balance between looking like a genuine SUV but not appearing as if it should have its own gravitational pull (Q7, we’re talking about you). Don’t get us wrong, the Q5 is hardly strikingly beautiful but it is neat, crisp and handsome, and the wheels it wears are all sizeable items that fill the arches nicely. There are optional designs of wheel that go up to 21-inches (£1250), if you don’t mind a bouncier ride. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

The standard, no-cost colours for the Q5 are white and black, so if you want a bit more sparkle in your life, metallic and pearl effect paints are £615, Audi exclusive hues (six special finishes to choose from or the entire Audi palette) are £2115 and for £2615, Ingolstadt will clothe your Q5 in any possible shade in the world.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Four fun used hot hatches that should hold their value
Used hot hatches
News

Four fun used hot hatches that should hold their value

Fast fun cars that won’t break the bank, to buy or when it comes time to sell
29 Oct 2025
New Honda Prelude review – the Audi TT alternative you’ve been looking for?
Honda Prelude front
Reviews

New Honda Prelude review – the Audi TT alternative you’ve been looking for?

The Honda Prelude returns after 25 years, with Type R suspension and glider-inspired styling
27 Oct 2025
New Porsche 911 Turbo S review – the more rounded McLaren Artura rival
Porsche 911 Turbo S front
Reviews

New Porsche 911 Turbo S review – the more rounded McLaren Artura rival

The 911 Turbo S despite its newfound electrification, is as it always was: a well-rounded supercar slayer
27 Oct 2025