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Audi Q5 car review – just right for business or a ski trip

Audi’s mid-sized SUV isn’t as cutting edge as some of the competition, but it’s a great combination of premium business car and practical 4WD weekend workhorse.
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31 July 2013

Audi Q5
The Q5 is generously equipped though the infotainment package feels dated alongside some of Audi’s newer offerings

What’s not?

  • Because it is a relatively old car, the Q5 uses a dated infotainment system. Compared with the system available on the new A3 it feels clunky and looks low resolution.
  • The same can be said of its company car tax banding which is looking decidedly old school…
  • …Also well over the new leasing tax break of 130g/km, so there’s a 15% restriction on what you can claim back against tax
  • The Audi looks understated and stylish in its own way but it doesn’t look or feel anywhere near as special as the Range Rover Evoque.
  • It’s also not quite as much fun to drive as the BMW X3. The Audi’s steering feels a bit lifeless, while the BMW’s encourages you to get involved.
  • The S line suspension set-up is a no cost option on S line Q5s, and we’d say it’s one you should avoid. It firms up the ride without making much of a difference to the handling.

 

Audi Q5
It doesn’t feel quite as cutting edge as some of the competitors, but the Q5 is stamped with Audi’s special blend of understated quality and practicality

Business Car Manager Verdict

The Audi Q5 represents everything that Audi does so well; it’s understated, comfortable, refined and fuel-efficient with a truly high-quality feel. 

Admittedly, it is starting to feel its age on the infotainment front but its engines and interior still feel bang up to date – even if the CO2 emissions aren’t.

If you want a business car that has the ability to tackle muddy tracks and carry a huge amount of luggage while still feeling like a premium executive saloon, the Audi Q5 is a great fit.

 

The Low Down…

Doors and body style  5-door SUV
Engine/gearbox  2 litre 4-cyl turbodiesel/7-speed twin clutch auto
CO2 Emissions  159g/km
Economy  47.1mpg
Power/torque  177hp/380Nm
0-62mph/top speed 9.0secs/127mph 
Insurance group  25

…and what it costs

P11D Value  £35,940
Monthly business rental (ex VAT)  
Road tax (VED)  Band G
Company Car Tax Bands 2013/14 to 2015/16  26%, 27%, 29%
Benefit in kind 2013/14 to 2015/16 £9344, £9704, £10,423 
Annual/Monthly fuel benefit (20%)  £1097/£91
Annual/Monthly fuel benefit (40%)  £2194/£183
Annual/monthly company car tax (20%)  £1869/£156
Annual/monthly company car tax (40%)  £3738/£311
Figures correct at time of posting  
For latest figures Use our company car tax calculator

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Matt Morton

Matt Morton

Matt Morton is an automotive content writer for Business Car Manager

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