I'm planning on purchasing a 2013 Q5 here very soon, but I've only been able to test drive the 2.0T. I should be able to test drive the 3.0 soon, but I'm wondering which would be better for long distances? ... e.g., crossing North America every other year. Is there good reason to expect the 6cyl's endurance to be better than the 4cyl? How tried & true are these engines?

My preferred configuration is at the Premium level, in which case the 6cyl is only $3k more expensive, and I am quite impressed with the reported gas mileage for the 6cyl.

TIA & Cheerios from the Avalon Peninsula

 

I've heard that both engines are good. After the test drive of 3.0T, pick up just what you like.

 

I'm afraid engine choice is more than about first impressions!

I've done a bit of research, and the 3.0TFSI replaces the normally aspirated 3.2, and is also supercharged. This is the 1st year that it's been an option for the Q5, but it's been an option for other highend Audis (e.g., S5) since 2008. Even while the version for the Q5 is de-tuned and delivers less HP, I'm satisfied that it is a tried & true Audi engine.

I will test drive it for noise relative to the 2.0TFSI, but I believe I'm likely to find it considerably more lively and still quiet and not as thirsty as the 3.2TID. For only $3k extra and with similar fuel mileage, I'll probably go for it. Now just to find a way to temper my anxiousness and make my case to the salesman for the concessions I'll need for purchasing a few of the options I want.

Cheerios from the Avalon

 

Go with the 3.0... It is a superior engine.

The 2.0 has been known to burn oil, and is much less powerful. If I was in the market for a cross-over type vehicle the 3.0 Q5 would be my #1 choice.

 

Go with the 3.0. IMO the one of the best engines on the planet.

 

the 2.0 is also a bit thirsty. It may be rated as more efficient, but if you don't drive like the US EPA test cycle, you will be doing a lot worse than its rating because it has to go on boost to make any sort of power.

 

Will pick up my OOOO Q5 3.0 premium plus tomorrow.
Took me 3 months to wait.

 

Picked up my Q5 3.0 premium plus this morning, power is awesome and more quiet than 2.0.
I like the fuel saving mode, it auto shut the engine off when stopping.

Thank you "cambridge99"!!

 

Go with the 3.0T awesome mill!

 

Glad to be of assistance - hope you got a great deal. I pick mine up in a week or so.

To the OP - get the 3.0. I have an A4 with the 2.0L and it is an oil burner. I have not heard about similar issues with the 3.0L engine.