Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro S line Plus 5dr Pre-Model Car Review - March 2012

The Q5's 2.0-litre diesel engine produces 168 bhp and 258 lb-ft of torque. 0-62mph takes 9.9 seconds and the top speed is 126mph. Although these credentials are not as impressive as those of the 2.0 TFSI, the Q5 still offers very good performance for a car in its class.

The Q5's steering is firm and well weighted and the car offers plenty of grip through the corners. Body roll is well tamed but the downside of this is that the ride is a touch firm - a common problem for Audis. Road, wind and engine noise are all well hushed at motorway speeds, making the Q5 a very comfortable place to be. Unfortunately, off-road capabilities are not as strong and this makes the car's practicality somewhat limited.

The 2.0 litre TDI Quattro S Line Plus offers a good range of standard kit including power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and an advanced stereo system with a CD player and MP3 connectivity all fitted as standard. Metallic paint finish, cruise control, a full leather interior, Bluetooth connectivity nand a built-in sat nav are also fitted.

The Q5 is a handsome car and, thanks to its good looks and limited off-road ability, is likely to become a common sight on the streets of Chelsea.

All of the materials used are of a high quality and this gives the car a reliable and robust feel. Audi have an excellent reputation for reliability so the Q5 should be utterly dependable.

In terms of safety, this model comes fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard. An alarm and immobiliser is also fitted to protect the vehicle from theft and the car comes with a three year warranty for 60,000 miles. A service interval of 9,000-19,000 miles is recommended and that means maintenance costs can vary but reliability should be strong. All of these features helped the model to achieve the top five star rating in the NCAP crash tests for overall safety, making it well recognised as a safe and reliable vehicle.

The boot offers a decent 540 litres when the seats and 1,560 litres when the seats are folded down. Adult passengers will also be more than comfortable within the spacious cabin, even in the rear seats.

Priced at £36,345 this model is more than £7,000 dearer than the standard trim level. For that you get slight improvements to the brakes and suspension and a better level of standard kit.

Insurance premiums for all of the 1.0-litre diesels fall under insurance group 22 and carbon emissions of 163g/km incur road tax costs under tax band G. Fuel economy is a combined 45.6mpg.

Of course Q5 resale values are expected to remain fairly strong and that means whatever model buyers choose they could be making a wise investment. The petrol versions may have a slight upperhand when it comes to performance but the diesels more than make up for this with the economic credentials.