Over the several years of the model's existence, its creators have made several significant updates. The compact crossover only outwardly seems to be a modest city car - a rather powerful filling is hidden under its hood, the development of which was guided by the main efforts of German designers. To date, the Audi KU5 model, the photo of which is presented below, is considered by many as the standard of the European SUV.
Model Overview
The car was released at the dawn of the popularity of the crossover segment and was a rather unusual concept. First of all, the model stood out for its design, which emphasized the unconventional combination of compactness and high power. However, not even this combination determined the future glory of the car. In addition to the successfully implemented motor range, the Audi KU5 is notable for its good maneuverability, which is almost of paramount quality for an urban SUV. As for the optional, it was originally extensive and to this day replenished with new devices. Another thing is that you have to pay a lot of money for them - in this regard, the manufacturer is not so attractive even compared to the closest competitor from Bavaria. By the way, the engineers from BMW provided no less worthy in terms of the characteristics of the model, but, unlike the Ingolstadt designers, they do not give them the status of sports cars.
Specifications
After each restyling, the model changes, but the basic design for the most part remains the same. Usually, the creators make changes to the engine range and the implementation of the Audi KU5 salon, the technical characteristics of which look like this:
- Number of seats - 5.
- Length - 462.9 cm.
- Width - 189.8 cm.
- Height - 165.5 cm.
- Wheelbase - 280.7 cm.
- Gross weight - 2,430 kg.
- The curb weight is 1830 kg.
- The volume of the luggage compartment is 540 liters.
- Ground clearance - 20 cm.
- Suspension - independent spring.
- Brakes - ventilated disc.
The model can not be called quite miniature, but against the backdrop of massive Japanese and the same German giants of the segment, this is a quite modest and compact car, while neatly endowed with off-road attributes. We can say that the car turned out to be hybrid and in its class. This is a mix of crossover with hatchback. So, if the signs of the former are expressed in increased ground clearance and large rounded shapes, not to mention the power plant, then with the passenger cars the model makes its maneuverability and ease of control similar.
Powertrain Data
The SUV is equipped as standard with a 180-horsepower gasoline engine, which has a typical lateral arrangement. The number of cylinders is 4, and the working volume of the unit is 2 liters. In the latest versions, German engineers provide a small crossover and diesel engines, the power of which exceeds 300 liters. from. I must say that in the basic version of the “Audi KU5” it is not deprived of a power charge, but with an increase in the form of a turbocharger it demonstrates an absolutely impressive traction. Actually, thanks to the expansion of the family due to the engine at 313 liters. from. the model received the full right to be considered sports. Fuel consumption in this case increases, but in the standard version its performance is in an acceptable range. For example, in a suburban cycle, the SUV consumes no more than 7 liters, and in urban mode - 8 liters.
Dynamic indicators
One of the strengths of this model is its road behavior, which lends itself to owner control, but at the same time differs in its own character. Impressive torque in the first seconds allows a small car to set records. The dynamic characteristics of the Audi KU5 confirm this: acceleration to "hundreds" depending on the version takes 5.1-7 seconds, and the maximum even in the initial versions is 222 km / h. Of course, we are talking about a compact crossover with competently optimized engine performance, but not every competitor in the same segment is able to demonstrate even close indicators. At the same time, the developers did not forget about traction qualities. Many owners feel a pleasant and powerful acceleration, which is supported by the characteristic roar of the engine. The only thing that can upset is the upper speed limit set by the limiter at the level of 250 km / h.
Positive feedback about the model
The model belongs to the premium class, as evidenced by the manufacturer's detailed approach to the execution of the smallest details. Users note the advantages of the original exterior, the comfort of the cabin, the presence of a wide range of electronic assistants and assistants, as well as the variety of Audi KU5 engines. Owner reviews also emphasize good aerodynamics, due to the unusual shape of the body. As a result, the dynamic characteristics of the crossover noticeably stand out from competitors in the class. The company offers a choice of automatic and mechanical gearboxes, so fans of frisky driving and adherents of a conservative style can realize their abilities. Actually, the model is also appreciated for the variety of modifications that cover not only fans of the off-road segment, but also connoisseurs of traditional passenger models.
Negative reviews
Most of the critical opinions are related to the unsatisfactory operation of the multimedia system, problems with automatic transmission, insufficient visibility and the small size of the luggage compartment. Users note not the best work of the musical complex - nevertheless, for a premium car, it was possible to more thoroughly approach the implementation of acoustics. In terms of the reliability of mechanisms and components, there are almost no complaints, but there are flaws in the operation of the Audi KU5 automatic transmission. Repair of this unit, according to some owners, can be carried out in the first months, without waiting for a complete loss of accuracy during the gear shift.
Hybrid Reviews
The electric version of the crossover is expected to show good savings. But the attention of many was not attracted even by this factor, but by the introduction of new assistants who organically supplement the power filling of the Audi KU5 already in the basic configuration. Compared with the traditional versions, a more stable and stable ride is noted. For lovers of dynamics, this may seem boring, but for long trips - just right. In addition, significant fuel savings will be achieved. The same electronic assistants help to choose the optimal driving mode in different sections. Thus, you can optimize the operation of the cross overa given traffic conditions, individual driving style and queries to the fuel consumption.
Conclusion
The model is a successful embodiment of a compact, stylish and maneuverable urban crossover. The creators managed to endow the Audi KU5 with seemingly contradictory characteristics. The machine combines a wealth of optional equipment and a simplified design, the thrust of the power unit and excellent dynamics, an original design and a reliable platform. At the same time, designers regularly make updates to the family of this crossover, which allows each motorist to choose his own version of the model based on operating requirements.