Audi Q5: Ahead
THE sales success of the Audi Q5 compact luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV) means there customers are truly satisfied. Therefore, for 2021, the Q5 is more about refinement and updates rather than an evolutionary change. Indeed, guided by the mantra, ‘if it ain’t broke there’s really no need to fix it’.
The Audi Q5’s rounded shape has proved timeless. For the new model, Audi has just brought the vehicle’s design language in line with what was started with the Q8. You get some chiselled character lines here and there, but the biggest updates are the LED headlights flanking and the new single-frame grille. Audi’s light game continues to be above the rest with the world’s first digital OLED Matrix tail lights.
Opt for these and owners can choose from a myriad of programmable lighting signatures.
Inside is just as understated and techno-filled as the exterior. Audi’s clean design is led by the massive screen for the Audi Multimedia Interface (MMI) as many of the functions have migrated to the digital space. The switchgear left are the important daily ones, set for ergonomics and in possession of that quality feel. As with Audi, it’s the small things, like tapping the roof-mounted cabin lights to have them softly illuminate. The leather seats are comfortable and adjustable, matching the overall theme of the interior. There’s low noise, soothing ambient lighting at night and plenty of storage expected of a family SUV. A power tailgate offers quick access to even more space.
The MMI touchscreen is large, fast and just as logically laid out as the physical buttons. Not that drivers need to use it much as the standard Audi Virtual Cockpit, follows suit in terms of size and clarity.