
The Audi Q5 is right in the middle of a segment of the market that didn't exist just a few years ago: the compact luxury crossover.
Now, there are plenty of models that offer heaps of luxury equipment, a somewhat high seating position, and carlike handling, without much, if any, emphasis on off-road ability.
The BMW X3 was designed last year to be more fashion-forward and carlike, while the Mercedes-Benz GLK wears angular clothes and bakes in off-roading, four-wheel drive, and a big V-6, with diesel power on the way.
The Acura RDX and Infiniti EX35 share Japanese heritage, but feel radically different.
The RDX's pulsing, turbocharged four-cylinder seems at odds with its mission, while the EX35's teensy cargo area leads to questions about its SUV classification.
Lastly, the soft and comfy SUVs in this group include the Lexus RX, a luxury favorite with little driving feel and a hybrid model; the new Volvo XC60, a sleek and fairly quick-footed SUV with a marvelous interior; and the Cadillac SRX, a new entry in this size class with crisp styling and good on-road maneuvers.
Yet another possibility is the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, which is the most urban, carlike vehicle Land Rover has ever produced.
It's attractive inside and out, with good performance, and it's quite fuel-efficient.
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Quick Specs | |||||
The 2012 Audi Q5 is one of the |
The 2012 Acura RDX satisfies those who want more driving excitement, but it might leave luxury- or tech-hungry shoppers wanting. |
A great-looking crossover with its most carlike performance yet, the BMW X3 also has more interior room and better materials than before. |
With a smooth new engine and a rich, uniquely American interior, the 2012 Cadillac SRX appeals to those who want a lot of luxury and flair but don't require driving excitement. |
The era of truly coupe-like SUVs dawns, finally, and the 2012 Range Rover Evoque nails it with turbo thrust and carlike handling. |
Rugged looks and lower gas mileage put the 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class in an SUV state of mind, but its ride and handling are more carlike than you'd think. |
MSRP From | |||||
$35,600 | $32,895 | $37,100 | $35,985 | $41,145 | $35,880 |
Gas Mileage | |||||
18 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 24 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 16 MPG City / 22 MPG Hwy |
Engine | |||||
Turbocharged Gas I4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas I6 | Gas/Ethanol V6 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas V6 |
EPA Class | |||||
4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle | 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle | Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD | Sport Utility 4WD | 2WD Sport Utility Vehicle |
Style Name | |||||
quattro 4-Door 2.0T Premium | FWD 4-Door | AWD 4-Door 28i | FWD 4-Door Base | 5-Door HB Dynamic Premium | RWD 4-Door GLK 350 |
Drivetrain | |||||
All wheel drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | |||||
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | |||||
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 4 | N/A |
Body Style | |||||
Sport Utility Vehicle | 4 Door | Sport Utility Vehicle | Crossover | Sport Utility | Sport Utility Vehicle |
Transmission | |||||
Automatic w/Manual Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic w/Manual Shift | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
2012 Audi Q5 vs. 2012 Acura RDX | 2012 Audi Q5 vs. 2012 BMW X3 | 2012 Audi Q5 vs. 2012 Cadillac SRX | 2012 Audi Q5 vs. 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque | 2012 Audi Q5 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK Class |