All but one key element of the Q5’s cabin is an example in excellent ergonomics. The dials and the air-con and entertainment controls are all cleanly designed, logically placed and manufactured from quality materials, for the most part.
It is, however, a little disappointing that the cabin isn’t more bespoke; other than the slightly taller dash, you could be in an A4. Audi’s excellent MMI control system continues to impress with its ease of use, and in this third generation the graphics are much improved, particularly for the satellite navigation.
The critical flaw in the Q5’s cabin, and one inherited from the A4, is the driving position. In the translation to RHD, the gearbox bell housing pushes the pedal box to the right. Although the Q5’s higher-set driving position means this is less problematic than in the A4, it still necessitates an uncomfortable twist in the lower body, damaging long-distance comfort. For a premium manufacturer, this is a surprisingly basic mistake.
Elsewhere, the cabin is impressively spacious, with plenty of leg and head room for four adults, five at a push. The rear seats are comfortable enough to ensure longer journeys will pass without complaint. The deep 540-litre load bay is the biggest in its class, shading even the XC60 and putting the Freelander’s 405 litres to shame. As standard, the boot has a useful selection of hooks, power sockets and fastenings which, as with our car, can be added to with Audi’s rail-mounted load securing system.
The Q5 is available in three levels of specification, even the most basic of which includes 17in alloys, ESP with hill descent control and six airbags as standard. The mid-level SE model tested here adds 18in wheels, rear parking sensors, leather and a 10-speaker stereo.
The Audi counters its higher price with a stronger equipment list. After the BMW, has the best claimed emissions and economy.
