2011 audi q5 2.0t quattro premium sport utility 4d review

A surefooted stable all weather utilitarian vehicle that is sporty yet smooth as molten butter and as stylishly luxurious as value would allow. The **2011 Audi Q5 2.0T Quattro Premium Sport Utility 4D** received favorable reviews for its blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. It’s praised for its upscale design, refined interior, and strong performance, particularly for a compact luxury SUV. Here's an overview of the strengths and weaknesses based on expert and owner reviews:

### **Strengths:**

1. **Quattro All-Wheel Drive System:**

   - The Quattro system is a standout feature of the Audi Q5, offering excellent traction and handling in various road conditions. It's especially beneficial in rain, snow, or slippery surfaces, giving drivers confidence on any terrain.

2. **Smooth and Efficient Performance:**

   - The **2.0-liter turbocharged engine** delivers 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing sufficient power for most driving situations. It offers a nice balance of performance and fuel efficiency, with **20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway**, which was competitive for a luxury SUV of its size in 2011.

   - The **8-speed automatic transmission** is smooth and quick to respond, contributing to a refined driving experience.

3. **Upscale Interior:**

   - Even though this is the base Premium trim, the **interior materials and craftsmanship** are of high quality, featuring standard leather upholstery, a comfortable seating layout, and high-end design details.

   - **Ergonomics**: Controls are user-friendly, and the driving position is comfortable with good visibility. The dual-zone climate control and leather seats add to the premium feel.

4. **Ride Quality and Handling:**

   - The Q5 offers a **smooth, composed ride** that balances comfort with agility. Despite being an SUV, it handles more like a car, with precise steering and minimal body roll. It’s great for both city driving and highway cruising.

   - It also shines when cornering, with stable and predictable handling.

5. **Practicality and Space:**

   - The Q5 offers **decent cargo space** for a compact SUV. With the seats up, you get 29.1 cubic feet of space, expanding to 57.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes it a good option for small families or individuals needing practical utility.

   - **Rear seat comfort** is better than many competitors, providing ample room for adults.

### **Weaknesses:**

1. **Infotainment System:**

   - The **Audi MMI system** (Multi-Media Interface) in the 2011 Q5 is functional but can feel a bit dated compared to newer systems, even in the Premium trim. Some users found it less intuitive, with a steeper learning curve for navigating through menus.

   - A lack of **advanced tech features** such as a larger touchscreen or a more sophisticated navigation system may leave tech-savvy buyers wanting more.

2. **Price of Options and Maintenance:**

   - While the Premium trim offers luxury features, some desirable options like the **panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and parking sensors** are not standard and require additional packages. This can increase the price significantly.

   - **Maintenance and repair costs** can also be on the higher side for a luxury vehicle, and Audi's long-term reliability, while improving, was sometimes criticized for expensive repairs after the warranty period.

3. **Acceleration:**

   - Though the 2.0T engine delivers a solid balance of performance and efficiency, some reviewers mentioned that it could feel **underpowered** when the SUV is fully loaded or under more aggressive driving conditions. Those seeking more power may prefer the 3.2-liter V6 variant.

4. **Road Noise:**

   - A few reviewers noted that the Q5's cabin can experience some **road noise** at higher speeds, which is somewhat unexpected for a vehicle in this luxury class.

### **Overall Verdict:**

The **2011 Audi Q5 2.0T Quattro Premium Sport Utility 4D** is a well-rounded compact luxury SUV that combines premium features with a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. It’s perfect for those who prioritize **all-weather capability, interior quality, and a smooth ride** in a stylish, compact package. However, the base trim may leave tech enthusiasts desiring more, and long-term ownership costs could be a concern.

Would you like information on owner ratings, common issues, or perhaps comparisons with similar SUVs like the BMW X3 or Mercedes-Benz GLK?