The Audi Q5 currently on sale in India is the 2021 update of a 2018-generation car, so yes, it’s at the very end of its lifecycle. Moreover, the new-generation Q5 is already on sale abroad. However, I don’t think there’s been a car that has impressed us so much at this late a stage in its life.
Nikhil had it when it just arrived and whisked it off for a weekend to Nashik, and ever since then, we’ve all been clamouring for its key. The thing is, it makes a good case for your head, not your heart, but spend some time with it, and it will tug at your heartstrings too. I managed to snag the keys to the Q5, and in the month that it’s been with me, I’ve really come to love it.
Let me explain why, starting with the drive experience. I’ve been using the Q5 within the confines of the city, and the ride is simply superb. In the Comfort setting, the damping is nice and pliant, but even in Sport mode, it remains comfy enough with tidy body control, enough to keep my daughter happy – she feels queasy in cars that have a floaty ride. Next up, the engine. In the Balanced setting, it does a remarkable job of reading my mind. It potters around smoothly, but when I want to overtake or close a gap in post-rush-hour, fast-moving traffic, it responds quickly. Mind you, it does not dart off, but the 2.0-litre TFSI engine delivers its power in a smooth and lusty manner. My daughter approves of this, too, as darting off too eagerly adds to her queasiness.
While I’m on about the engine, the fuel economy has been in the single digits with an average of 6.46kpl with me – expected of a large petrol-auto SUV in the city. For reference, Nikhil saw 10.9kpl on his highway run, fully loaded with family, dog and all their luggage.
Which brings me to the interiors of the Q5. They’re nice and spacious for a family outing. My 5ft 11in son is happy with the legroom and headroom available, though he has brought up a valid point about the seats; they are comfy to sit in, but they heat up if you’ve parked it in the sun; the lack of cooled seating and leather upholstery that isn’t perforated does not help at all.
The Q5 also inspired my wife to use it as a treasure-hunt clue at one of her corporate events. The ‘four rings’ in the clue was enough for everyone to find it, and apparently, everyone was very appreciative of the green shade – it’s quite the hit with everyone at home and office, too. However, I suspect it’s one of those shades that everyone will love to look at, but few will opt for.
It’s been a happy month with the Q5 then, and coming back to the start, yes, there’s a new Q5 around the corner, and if you want the latest tech, I would definitely recommend waiting for it. But you won’t go wrong with this one either. In fact, over the new Q5, this car is wonderfully analogue in its feel, and the drive fundamentals are well sorted with just the right amount of electronic intervention. It’s the same with the interior too, which is peppered with high-quality and useful buttons and dials, but with just the right amount of tech and screens. And of course, I’d negotiate a great deal – which carmakers do offer when it’s time for a model’s replacement. Until I can save up for one, though, I’ll try and hang on to this one’s keys.
Gavin D'Souza
Jay Patil
Hormazd Sorabjee
Saumil Shah
Nikhil Bhatia
