Audi Q5January 2009

Audi has already had a decent amount of success with its larger Q7, but with the market turning towards smaller 4x4s, the Q5 should be perfectly placed to snap up consumers who are looking to downsize from their larger gas-guzzlers without sacrificing space or style.

And the Q5 is a handsome bit of kit. It looks sleek, thanks to a coupe-like profile, and its deep front grille and the relatively low stance gives it good on-road presence. It is longer than rivals such as the X3 and Freelander, but marginally narrower - although you wouldn't know to look at it - and offers exceptional space inside. The cabin is one of the roomiest we've been in for some time and, as expected of Audi, it is excellently finished.

There are three engines available; the 2.0-litre TFSI petrol unit and a 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre TDI units offering between 140 bhp and 240 bhp. The 2.0-litre TDI is expected to be the biggest seller and offers the best balance between power and economy. It's by no means as swift as the 3.0-litre TDI but, in 170bhp form, still pulls the Q5 along with ease.

The Q5 won't amaze off-road in the same way as the Freelander - its low ground clearance is a disadvantage here - but it does have an off-road setting which helps provide the best traction on greasier surfaces such as snow, ice or gravel. It also has an electronic hill descent control so it offers respectable off-road performance.

It is on the road though where the Q5 impresses most with its car-like handling. It's no hot-hatch, but feels solid and controlled through corners, with little body roll. It also benefits from a surprisingly compliant and supple ride, where Audis are often quite firm. It is dynamic enough to provide plenty of entertainment on a twisty B-road, yet doubles up as a comfortable and effortless motorway companion.