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The German automaker Audi argues that the Q5 boasts interiors of a luxury car, the handling of a sport sedan, and the ground clearance of a crossover SUV. Interestingly, the brand never needed to argue since the 2014 Audi Q5 actually blends the three of the above qualities and is one of the most loved compact luxury crossovers in its class. For 2014, Audi Q5 lineup welcomes the addition of a powerful yet fuel efficient turbodiesel model while the base 2.0 liter gets a power upgrade to 220 horsepower. Rest updates are confined to equipment changes across various trim levels.

The 2014 Audi Q5 2.0T comes standard with all wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.0 liter inline four cylinder engine good for 220 horsepower and 258 pound feet of torque. An eight speed automatic transmission comes as standard. EPA estimated fuel economy is 20 city/28 highway and 23 mpg combined. The Q5 2.0T accelerates to 60 mph from rest in a sprint time of 6.8 seconds which is a performance on par with the Audi’s peers. The Audi 3.0T sports a supercharged 3.0 liter V6 engine that generates 272 horsepower and 295 pound feet of torque. Along with the standard eight speed automatic transmission, an automatic stop-start system saves fuel by shutting off the engine when the car comes to a halt. This 3.0T engine is capable of accelerating the Q5 from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.8 seconds which surely is a very quick time for a vehicle in this class. Fuel economy estimates stand at 18/26/21. Next in the lineup, the Q5 3.0 TDI features a 3.0 liter turbocharged diesel V6 good for 240 hp and a whopping 428 pound feet of torque. The automatic stop-start system is standard. The brand claims a sprint time of 6.5 seconds for a 0 to 60 mph acceleration while fuel economy estimates stand at 24/30/26. Lastly, Q5 Hybrid pairs the 2.0T’s engine with an electric motor and a battery pack and generates an output of 245 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque.

The 2014 Audi Q5 sports classy interiors and top notch construction. Despite its compact size this crossover manages to deliver a roomy experience whether you’re seated in front or rear seats. The rear seats slide fore and raft, which is a rarity in this segment of luxury crossovers.

The SUV delivers smooth, powerful acceleration and the eight speed automatic transmission is refined and responsive. As the brand “argues”, the handling is excellent. The steering is similarly quick and responsive but is said to have a rather artificial feel. One rather funny or annoying thing about the Q5 is its random refiring since the automatic stop-start system doesn’t keep the engine off at very long traffic lights.

While the compact luxury crossover faces head to head competition with models, like the roomier Volvo XC60, the equally excellent handling and performance boasting BMW X3 or the even more stylish Land Rover’s Range Rover Evoque or the mpg driven Mercedes Benz GLK-Class, the 2014 Audi Q5 is a candidate that does everything well and hence becomes an ideal choice!