Audi Q5 3.2 FSI quattro S line Plus 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The V6 engine delivers 266 bhp at 6500 rpm with 244lb-ft of torque arriving at 3000-5000 rpm – giving it stronger performance credentials than other Q5 models. A top speed of 145 mph and a 0-62 mph time of just 6.9 seconds mean that the performance credentials of this model are high.

The steering is firm and controlled and there is a good level of grip on the road. This helps to control body roll and movement during corners and bends and gives this model the stability and firmness on the road which is expected. Noise from the wind and road is barely audible and the engine is relatively quiet at motorway speeds. The suspension does a good job of eliminating discomfort and the handling is reassuring. Unfortunately, the off-roading capabilities are limited and this could be a deterrent to buyers.

The Q5 3.2 TFSI Quattro S line Plus offers plenty of standard equipment including power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, a built-in sat nav system, Bluetooth connectivity, a full leather interior, rear parking sensors and an advanced stereo system with a CD player and MP3 connectivity.

The vehicle is relatively light-weight for its class but this does not mean it is inferior when it comes to quality. All of the materials used are of a high quality and this gives the car a reliable and robust feel.

To enhance the trim, buyers can choose to upgrade the external appearance with a metallic paint finish for £615 and cruise control can be added for £225 to improve drivability.

The Q5 3.2 FSI quattro S line Plus is fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard. An alarm and immobiliser are 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.

The model performed well in the NCAP crash tests, achieving the highest rating for overall safety (five stars).

In terms of practicality the boot offers a decent 540 litres of space when the seats are in place, expanding to 1,560 litres when the seats are folded down. This is larger than the Q3 range which received some criticism for its average boot size and there is even additional storage available underneath the boot floor. Cabin space is also roomy and the back seats in particular are more than ample for adult passengers.

Priced at £41,765 this is an expensive model by any standards.

For a 4x4 the fuel economy is average and once again the petrol engine proves to be less efficient than diesel models. Fuel consumption totals 30.4 mpg which is far from the lowest in the class but is definitely not a figure which will cause excitement amongst the budget conscious. Green credentials are also poor with the car registering carbon emissions of 218g/km, bumping it into a higher tax band when compared to other Q5 models.

Ultimately, buyers will need to decide whether the additional power and performance levels are worth the additional cost and some may be tempted to opt for the 2.0 TFSI (180 PS) Quattro S Line Plus which delivers better fuel economy, lower carbon emissions and cheaper insurance premiums alongside a lower purchase price of £35,195 and with only small compromises on performance.