this blog would bring in more readers if it gives out good and unbiased reviews like this. i’m one of those.

By growing in size, it will appeal to even more people. Add the 3.0 twin-turbo, a 2.0 l diesel and a hybrid engine, and you have a winner.

@Alex, and yes, you’re right, I would still buy the new X3 before the Q5…I guess I can say I’m biased there

I live in Chicago and am a bimmer fan/owner and just last week saw the Black Q5 in person. Audi’s road map for design is definitely challenging BMW on day-to-day basis. Overall, I like the solid look of the Q5 and it draws upon a working look with clean lines. The next-gen X3 will definitely need to have a stand-out design to compete.

As his driving partner at the Q5 driving event and an Audi owner I agree with most of Horatiu’s comments and share his enthusiasm about the car – although I don’t think he’d buy one, haha. He is a Bmw fan afterall

Styling – I think the back is a bit boring and perhaps they could’ve thrown some innovation to the front, rather than making it look like the Q7 younger brother.

Performance – lack of torque/power at low rpms, but past that although not exhilarating it does the job, remember you’re not in an M car. I hope they will put the 3.0L diesel engine on it as it will bring a low more needed torque to make it more fun in the city.

Handling – completely agree with Horatiu, we drove it pretty hard and on partially WET surface and although the car skidded a few times I never felt I lost control of the car – which inspires confidence at all times, thanks to the new Quattro system and decent suspension. Breaks we great too.

Would I buy one? I would certainly give it a serious consideration after testing the competition, including the NEW X3 as the current one doesn’t stand a chance, other than perhaps better agility/performance.

And yes, I try to write them a bit different from the general auto publications, in a more personal way, less fancy words and connecting directly with my readers. I believe this is a reason why many people read our blog, a more personal feel and less formal.

So, please continue bringing us articles like this!

As far as the Q5 design I will have to admit that it is boring. Nothing stimulating about it. I think that the current X3 still looks better than the Q5.

As far as the driving qualities is concerned, I have read a similar review that no matter how much you would push the Q5, it would still make you feel safe. Audi has certainly raised the bar but I bet that the next X3 will certainly live up to the challenge. There is alot of “know how” from the production of the X5 M & X6 M.

(Although to be fair it is probably a better resolved design than the current E83 X3!)