The Audi Q5 remains as one of the most attractive luxury crossovers you can buy. The 2020 Q5 relies on Audi’s familiar formula: smooth handling, a supple interior, and awesome technology. It’s hard to go wrong with this luxury SUV, but it is an expensive model and it has a spotty reliability history. We’ve gathered a few alternative SUVs to consider based on performance capabilities, dependability, and pricing. 

The best in class: Porsche Macan 

Starting price: $50,900

If you can afford to go all out on a high-performing luxury SUV, you might want to strongly consider the 2020 Porsche Macan. Some say the Macan’s style is too bland, but it’s performance capability more than makes up for that. The Macan lives up to its sporty persona thanks to two potent engine options. Macan S models come standard with a 3.0-liter V6 engine that makes a 248 horsepower. The Turbo version features a 434-hp 3.6-liter V6.

Porsche and Audi are both under the Volkswagen Group umbrella and the Macan is actually based on the same platform as the Audi A5. However, performance is Porsche’s greatest strength. The Macan offers a near-perfect combination of force and balance. Although, the Macan isn’t as fuel-efficient as the A5 is. On the flip side though, the Macan has an excellent predicted reliability rating while the A5’s is just average. 

On the inside, the Macan is supple and polished. Its contoured seats are ideal for long car rides but taller passengers might find that the Macan feels too cramped. Interior Macan upgrades include leather upholstery and heated seats.

The runner up: Volvo XC60

Starting price:  $40,150

Volvo’s 2020 XC60 has received praise for its elegance, plush interior, and a bevy of in-car electronics. The XC60 comes with a 250-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and there’s also an available 316-hp variant. Both powertrains are responsive and strong, but they don’t make the XC60 as fun to drive as the A5. Overall, the XC60 is a mild-mannered ride that handles dips in the road satisfactorily.

The XC60’s comfort levels on the inside are what it’s known for. Its cabin offers plush seating and adequate passenger space. This crossover also comes with an extremely modern infotainment system but it might take you some time to get used to its controls. 

As far as advanced safety equipment goes, the XC60 offers lots of standard features including driver drowsiness monitoring, run-off road mitigation and protection, and traffic sign recognition.

The bargain buy: Mazda CX-5

Starting price:  $25,190

As we’ve said before, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 does luxury very well. This practical and affordable  SUV offers lively driving dynamics but doesn’t compromise on fuel-efficiency. And for a non-luxury model, the CX-5 features a surprisingly upscale cabin. 

The CX-5 comes standard with a four-cylinder engine that makes a 187 hp. However, for a more luxurious performance experience, you will want to upgrade to the available turbocharged option that produces a 227 hp.

To get the most luxury features at a discount, we recommend the Grand Tour Reserve or the Signature trims. The CX-5 offers an easy-to-use infotainment system and many advanced safety features come standard too.