sbp748

Currently debating between a used 2009 Q5 or a used 2010 MDX... If anyone still owns the 09' Q5 model, I am curious about how reliable it has been over the past several years... Have there been maintenance issues?

After reading through many of these forums--I'm still uncertain on how the Q5 holds up over time. I know the MDX is far more reliable but I am in love with the way the Q5 drives and looks.

TIME89

If you think MDX very reliable - you should spend your time on MDX forum
As a member of that forum from 2004 - I can assure you - MDX has no less issues then Q5 or X3.

Heresy64

I've had an MDX, and while it is a fine vehicle, it is a much different vehicle than the Q5. It is big, heavy and feels as much. The Q5 is more more sporty and nimble than the MDX. I prefer the interior of the Q5, although the MDX is more roomy inside. If you're used to driving trucks and SUVs, then you'll probably prefer the MDX (although it drives much better than a truck). If you're used to driving cars, then you'll prefer the Q5. Just my 2 cents.

Marley's Ghost

I have both a Q5 and an Acura and like them both very much. But the MDX and the Q5 are not as comparable as the Q5 and the Acura RDX. If you need the extra room and the 3rd row of seats, you should get the MDX (or a Q7).

We looked at both the RDX and the Q5 before making our choice (along with other crossovers), and for us the choice was easy. If you care, the interior and the exterior styling of the Q5 was head and shoulders above Acura's offering. Handling and the TDI (here) were a bonus.

spijun

These are two different categories of car Acura MDX's class-Q7.
Another important thing Audi is a premium class car (Mercedes, BMW)
Not comparable cars

The G Man

There is no way to predict how reliable those two cars will be, in general, Acura is a bit more reliable, but that from car to car. What you really need to do is prioritize your needs such as: Fun to drive, size, reliability, quality, ugly grille , and the interior and exterior. Good luck.

uberwgn

Brilliant summary!

jlim0930

I've traded in my MDX for the Q5 about 3 weeks ago.

I've had the 2008 and the 2004 MDX and now 2012 Q5 and although the size is a bit smaller than the MDX the feel and the drive of the Q5 far surpasses the MDX.

I believe that the RDX is about the same size as the Q5 however with the fuel efficiency of the 2.0T it does not compare at all.

Also the 2004 MDX 2 generations ago was much better build quality than the 2008 and also the current generation it felt much more solid and the interior was much nicer and the drive was much better

sbp748

These models, MDX and Q5, are the two that I have narrowed down my search to. (Unless y'all have other suggestions.) I've driven a Ford Explorer Limited Ed. for the past 6 years and am ready to give it up. Still want the feel of an SUV but more compact like the MDX and Q5.

I test drove both models and loved how the Q5 felt over the MDX but all reviews say that the MDX is far more reliable. I just wonder if this statistic comes from the fact that the MDX model has been around far longer. I have heard that keeping up an Audi can drive one into bankruptcy and having graduated from college less than a year ago, I can't afford that.

That said, I want to get the best vehicle for the money I am willing to spend and plan on having this car for the next 5-10 years.

Also, any input on MPG for both vehicles?

Thank you!!

The G Man

You can always buy the extended warranty for the Q5.