So the new second generation Audi Q5 has been launched, and you think, “It’s gotta be good”, because the first one launched locally in 2009 sold so well: 1.6 million units worldwide and 11 300 units locally. That figure’s dropped off a bit after a blip in 2013 with the facelift and a sporty diesel model, but meanwhile the opposition has scrambled to grab some of that high-margin SUV pie. Think Porsche Macan, BMW X3, Mercedes GLA, and the JLR contender, the F-Pace.
The first Q5 on the MLB platform echoed the drivetrains and suspension of the A5 and fourth-gen A4 stablemates, so you had punchy engines and pretty sorted rear-biased Quattro permanent 4WD, but rather stiff and wooden handling. No matter, the Q5 hit the sweet spot for size…