Audi Q5 diesel vs Volvo XC60 hybrid
Should you choose plug-in hybrid or diesel power for your plush SUV? We pit the powerful Volvo XC60 T8 against Audi’s Q5 40 TDI to find the answer...
Our verdict
This Volvo XC60 will be just the ticket for certain people. If you’re a business user who has convenient access to charging points and does lots of short trips, you’ll be quids in after three years of ownership. However, it’s let down by its unwieldy handling and lumpy low-speed ride.
We’ve no complaints about the way the Audi Q5 drives, though. Sure, it isn’t quite as quick, but it’s more than strong enough for all but the most hardened speed freaks, and you’ll much prefer its crisper handling and more comfortable ride. With even more impressive practicality inside and its lower ownership costs for private buyers, it’s an easy win for the Q5.
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1st – Audi Q5
For More comfortable ride; better economy on long trips; bigger boot; agile handling
Against More suspension and engine noise; steering wheel could adjust more
What Car? rating 5/5
Read our full Audi Q5 review
For Rapid acceleration; quieter and more frugal in town; cheap company car tax
Against Lumpy ride; wobbly handling; shrunken boot; thirsty when battery is flat
What Car? rating 3/5
Read our full Volvo XC60 review
Find a great Volvo XC60 deal
Specifications: Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro S line S tronic
- Engine size 4cyl, 1968cc, diesel
- List price £43,395
- Target Price £39,602
- Power 187bhp @ 3800-4200rpm
- Torque 295Ib ft @ 1750-3000rpm
- Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
- 0-60mph 8.0sec
- Top speed 135mph
- Gov't fuel economy 51.4mpg
- CO2 emissions 146g/km
Specifications: Volvo XC60 T8 R-Design
- Engine size 4cyl, 1969cc, turbo/supercharged, petrol plus electric motor
- List price £54,780
- Target Price £49,911
- Power 299bhp (petrol), 87bhp (electric)
- Torque 295lb ft (petrol), 177lb ft (electric)
- Gearbox 8-spd automatic
- 0-60mph 5.1sec
- Top speed 140mph
- Gov't fuel economy 122.8mpg
- CO2 emissions 52g/km
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