• Published On: 6 July 2018
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Just how good is Audi’s mid-size luxury SUV with a turbo-petrol engine.

The Q5 now gets a petrol engine option as well, owing to the growing popularity of petrol cars. Under the hood sits the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol motor, which makes 252hp, from the Q7.

This car is identical to the diesel on the inside, so you get a well-finished cabin with lots of space and comfort. The dash is low, and you get a good view out, the front seats are comfy, and you are also sat very comfortably at the rear. There are two trims on sale, namely Premium Plus and Technology. Equipment on the top-spec 45 TFSI Q5 Technology variant includes automatic headlamps and rain-sensing wipers, powered front seats with a memory function for the driver’s seat, three-zone climate control, digital instruments and smartphone connectivity compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Q5 is powered by a 1984cc, four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power through Audi's Ultra Quattro all-wheel-drive system. There’s a bit of lag from the engine when you start off and from the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as well, which makes driving around in traffic feel a little jerky. As you pick up the pace though, the engine starts to respond much better. The turbocharger kicks in at just above 2,200rpm and gear shifts become smoother too. The car also comes with a Sport mode for when you want to have a bit of fun.

Overall refinement levels are very high, and the calm demeanour of the engine means you won’t realise you’re cruising at triple-digit speeds. On the highway, the Q5 is stable and agile enough to handle quick lane changes. The Quattro system does its job well but the Q5’s steering doesn’t give you enough feedback when you’re tackling corners.

The adjustable dampers work extremely well when going over potholes - you glide over bad roads without slowing down much; and there isn’t too much vertical movement.

Should I buy one?

The Q5 petrol costs Rs 55.27 lakh for the Premium Plus variant and Rs 59.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the top-spec Technology trim. These prices are identical to the diesel Q5, so which one makes sense for you to get, the petrol or the diesel? If performance is a priority, the Q5 petrol is easily the one to buy - it’s quick and more involving, and overall it is a solid package.