Set to arrive to dealerships early next year, the 2009 Audi Q5 will have to fight its way to consumers’ hearts through a number of strong competitors such as Acura RDX, 2007 BMW X3, Infiniti EX35, and Land Rover LR2, although only the latter is truly off-road capable.
During the initial period, the car will be offered only in one trim, with one engine and one transmission, so the choice will be pretty much an easy one. Especially considering that the compact SUV will be equipped with a 240 hp, 368 lb-ft, 3.2-liter six-cylinder TDI engine mated to a six-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox. All the power will be shared between the front and the rear axles through Audi’s well-known Quattro system.
Measuring 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long, 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide and 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) high, the 2009 Audi Q7 is about 3 inches longer than the BMW X3. Its wheel-base of 9.22 feet is also an inch longer that that of the X3 so there is a good chance that the Q5 will have roomier interior and more spacious luggage compartment.
The 2009 Audi Q5 is also more agile than its older compatriot. While the X3 takes about 6.9 seconds to jump from zero to 60 mph, the Q5 does that in only 6.5 seconds achieving a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). The powerful oil-burner consumes only 7.7 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km (30.55 mpg).
a sexy 30mpg SUV? YES PLEASE! :nod
“One more reason why Audi>*” as Jeff said.
Tahoe? :crackup stick it up your arse, GM!
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