Audi Q3 or Volvo XC40/60

[Clusterduck]

I would be interested to hear about experiences of either of the above models. DH has always wanted an Audi. I wonder about reliability and servicing costs so think a Volvo might be better value. The problem with the Volvo is the XC40 seems a little small whereas the XC60 seems too big. We have test driven a Hyundai Tucson and it’s obviously a bit cheaper but feels sluggish. Or do we just wait for the Toyota Cross SUV to come out? Other contender could be Lexus but suspect too expensive.

I drove a Q3 for a while after I crashed my car (Range Rover) and I hated it, whilst I loved the model I test drove, the S-Line I bought was horrible, lacking in features, uncomfortable to drive and small interior relative to the size of the exterior.
I have driven a Lexus in the past and it was very comfortable. I'm back to a Range Rover now and have no plans on changing it for a while.

Personally I think Audis are quite basic inside. Not worth the money. Volvo are renowned for safety and reliability. You won't find a more solid car.

VWs are better for spec and fancy extras with all the reliability of an Audi, which is apparently going downhill. Skoda have a bunch of new SUVs which are actually really good! Them plus Seat are all the same car underneath.

You will get much more bang for your buck with Hyundais and Kia such as reversing camera. They have much more as standard. They are the same cars underneath and also hugely reliable. I think Kia Sportage are nicer inside than Hyundai but it's personal preference isn't it.

Also, the Lexus RX is lovely. It's like floating on a cloud and super comfortable. I think it's more Q5 size. The new RAV4 looks nice but I've no experience with it.

If you can afford an xc40 I think that's the pick of the bunch really. Google crash tests and Volvo and see just how solid they are. It's breathtaking really in comparison.

We have just ordered a New CX5. We test drove loads and were looking at new models so maybe a bit different

I found the XC40 had a sluggish engine for the price tag and didn’t like the fact everything was controlled via a touchscreen. I found the the Tucson very underpowered.

we yes drove loads (no Audi though) and the CX5 was stand out.

We have just bought a CX5 - couple of years old. A total departure from our usual - normally have Fords but no Mondeos around and underwhelmed by Kuga: primarily we wanted a car to tow our caravan. Have to say it's awesome: just driven it to Alps and back (without caravan) and it was effortless (2.2 diesel). Great pulling power, really comfortable, lots of bells and whistles that we've never had before (eg. head-up display). Dh not at all bothered with cars - wants functionality and economy - but he absolutely loves it!

Ooh lots of love for the CX5. I really like it but DH thinks ‘the nose is disproportionately long’ which is part of his criticism for the XC60… Sigh. We are reluctant to go for diesel again as we are in London (although I know the newer ones can be very clean). Wish we could go electric but don’t have the funds or the parking/charging access.
Maybe I can convince him to test drive a CX5…

The CX5 is very understated - it's a lot less ubiquitous than the Volvo (well, it is round here). We would never have considered one but I read that they are good towing cars, hence the test drive. Even if you're not towing, they are just lovely to drive

Thought I should update. Thanks for all the fab advice! In the end, we have ignored our own shortlist and went for something far less prestigious but way more impressive in turns of features (blind spot camera, leather seats which can be heated and cooled even for the back passengers etc). It’s a Hyundai Tucson hybrid and we have overcome some badge snobbery after test driving it. Different world to older model. Far more comfortable than the Audi with far more extras. Volvos weren’t quite the right size sadly and Mazda was coming out at a bit more for fewer perks. Plus it’s a hybrid which should be perfect for our urban driving. Thank you for all the info though!

Glad you made a decision OP - sounds like the perfect choice. Enjoy driving it

Thank you @stringbean .
I do love the look of the CX5 - so sleek. I never got close to one alas, they’re pretty scarce! Next time…

Great decision! Hope you continue to enjoy it

Thanks @Duettino . If you have one and know if any quirks, let me know!

Sadly no, I had the sister version. A Kia Sportage and I could never work out the perks of that 😂