Audi offers the 2019 Q5 in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims. A performance SQ5 model with a turbocharged V6 engine is marketed (and covered) separately. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to all four wheels. This model makes an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon city, 27 mpg highway, and 24 combined. It has a maximum tow rating of 4,400 pounds.

The list of standard features is impressive and includes xenon headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-trimmed seats, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, and a seven-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto smartphone compatibility. For this reason, we recommend the base Premium trim and adding a few upgrades to complete your build.

• Model:2019 Audi Q5 Premium
• Engine:2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
• Output:252 hp / 273 lb-ft
• Transmission:Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Drivetrain:All-wheel drive
• Fuel Economy:22 City / 27 Hwy
• Options: Azores Green Metallic paint ($595), a Convenience Package ($1,500, keyless entry doors and trunk, heated automatic power-folding side mirrors with memory, eight-way power front seats, SiriusXM satellite radio with a complimentary 90-day subscription)
• Base Price: $43,945 (including the $995 destination charge)
• Best Value Price: $46,040

Speed is easy to find in the 2019 Audi Q5. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine may displace at 2.0 liters, but it matches some small V6s in power output. The turbo-four makes 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and is matched with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Under hard acceleration, expect to go from zero to 60 mph in just under six seconds, which is surprisingly robust for this relatively heavy model.

The latest version of Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel-drive system now features a full rear axle disconnect for improved efficiency and a sportier drive. The system moves power between all four wheels for enhanced grip and control. The Q5 supplies a comfortable ride regardless of road conditions.

Every Audi model delivers a common, conservative theme. Telling the differences between various models is difficult, particularly among like body styles. That’s on purpose as the Q3, Q5, Q7, and Q8 share a common theme.

That theme features clean lines, a bold front fascia, and sharp corners. Inside, the cabin continues with the conservative look, with a logical layout for controls and infotainment. The display screen is attractive with orange and white lettering on a black background. It's a display only as it doesn’t offer touchscreen control, however. Seating is ideal for four individuals or five for short drives.

In the Q5, Audi supplies a vehicle with good marks for crashworthiness and standard low-speed automatic emergency braking. The Q5 earns top safety scores from the two testing agencies. Like most competing models, fuel efficiency isn’t this model’s strong suit.

The Audi Q5 hits all the right buttons for anyone looking for a luxurious SUV for under $50,000. It combines top technology with ample storage space to supply the features customers want. On the other hand, its conservative style doesn't offer the flair of some models, such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300.

Hitting all the right marks, the 2019 Audi Q5 delivers a strong entry in a competitive segment. Its standard all-wheel drive is matched by few models and its list of included features is impressive. Pricing, however, can rise quickly when building a top-trim model.