Audi's pricing strategy makes the Q5 $2,500 less than one of its closest German rivals, the 2009 BMW X3. The X3 starts at $40,525, including an $825 destination charge. But the Q5 is more expensive than one of its closest Japanese rivals, the 2008 Infiniti EX35, which starts at $32,765, including an $865 destination charge. Curiously, the base Q5 has the same starting price as its Swedish rival, the 2010 Volvo XC60, another highly anticipated compact crossover.
The Audi Q5 jumps in price as equipment is added. The German automaker said it will be offered in three equipment levels. The midrange Audi Q5 Premium Plus starts at $42,325, including shipping, while the top-of-the-line Audi Q5 Prestige starts at $49,025, including shipping.
In the U.S., the Audi Q5 gets the 3.2-liter FSI V6, which is rated at 270 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. It is linked to a six-speed Tiptronic transmission. Audi said standard features on the Q5 include three-zone climate control and LED taillights. It is also the first model sold in the U.S. with the optional MMI Navigation plus, the third generation of Audi's MMI system that bundles entertainment, communications and navigation information.
Inside Line says: Audi carefully prices its base Q5 to appeal to cost-conscious buyers, but it won't be too difficult to slip past $50K if you go for all the goodies. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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