The Audi Q5 is not the youngest premium SUV out there, but that doesn't mean it isn't safe. The IIHS has just awarded it the maximum Top Safety Pick Plus rating after the small overlap frontal crash was passed.
There's quite a lot of depth to this story because even though the Q5 looks just like it did last year, changes have been made under the skin. The 2014 model year had achieved Good ratings in four major categories, but was not subjected to the challenging small-overlap test.
Now Audi is back to try again. Every Q5 made for the US market after January 2015 has a reinforced frontal structure and occupant construction. This and the available Driver Assistance package are what got Audi the maximum score.
Earlier this week, the IIHS revealed its findings on several other SUVs. Their best performer was the 2015 Nissan Murano while Dodge Journey earned a frighteningly poor rating. Dodge Durango, Jeep Cherokee and Hyundai Santa Fe models obtained marginal ratings in this test.
"The chief problem is a structure that collapses, which in some cases defeats the airbag's ability to protect the driver's head," said David Zuby, IIHS executive director.
After watching the Q5 crash test, we strongly recommend checking out the second video, an overview of the IIHS results. It should give you a better understanding of the risks you are subjecting yourself to by buying a structurally weak car. About one in every four deaths in new cars happen in small overlap crash scenarios.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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