THIS is the all-new Audi Q5 SUV which is the second generation of one of Audi's biggest-selling motors which is in sale in the UK now.

It may look much like the outgoing Q5 but Audi says it is all new from the ground up and comes with the latest technology available, is lighter and more fuel efficient and offers more interior space for passengers and possessions.

Despite a slight all-round increase in dimensions the new Q5 come in around 90kg lighter than the first generation model which means it is a little bit more nimble on the move.

Audi has aimed the new Q5 squarely against the likes of the BMW X3, Land Rover Discovery Sport and even the Jaguar F-PACE in the premium SUV sector and my first impression is that it is up there with the best.

Initially there is a choice of two fuel systems for UK buyers, the 2.0 TFSI 252bhp petrol turbo, or the 2.0 TDI oil-burner, with more derivatives to follow later including hybrid drive models. The diesel line-up has a starting price of £37,240 and the petrol comes in at £37,990.

Both offers top class performance. The TDI with seven-speed S tronic gearing can hit 62mph in just 7.9 second and on to a top whack of 135mph and produces 133 g/km of CO2, while the petrol version hits 62mph in just 6.3 seconds and on to 147mph with CO2 coming in at 159 g/km.

Audis are all about classy interiors with the best fit and finish and quality materials being utilised and the new Q5 is no exception.

There is ample head and legroom in the Q5 for four bigger than normal adults to feel comfortable and boot space is exceptionally good easily swallowing up a fair amount of gear for family outings or sports equipment. Rear luggage space has been increased to 550 litres and power operated tailgate is standard.

Standard and optional equipment is huge in the Q5. It comes with Xenon headlights the LED daytime running lights and LED tail lights as standard.

There's a choice of 18 or 19-in alloys and it comes with electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, aluminium roof rails and window trim plus side and rear windows in heat-insulating glass.

Twin leather heated front seats face the Audi virtual cockpit fully digital instrument cluster which has an optional 12.3in LCD high resolution touch-screen display with navigation, phone and entertainment systems which are easily accessed.

The Q5 isn't an off-road motor but it can tackle a bit of rough stuff and demanding driving routes. It isn't short on helpful kit to help cope with adverse conditions.

It comes with independent wheel suspension, anti-roll bars, electromechanical steering, dual circuit brake system, anti-lock brake system, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, stabilisation control, front and rear ventilated discs plus other useful driving aids.

As far as the driving experience goes I was mighty impressed with the performance and handling of the TFSI S tronic.

First impression was the overall ride quality which think for a motor of this size was excellent. It soaked up noise from all but the roughest of our badly maintained roads and on the move the quietness inside is remarkable.

Despite its size the big Audi holds onto tight bends well with very little body roll and acceleration through the 7-speed auto is smooth with no gear-change lurches.

Braking, even at speed, is gradual and effective and acceleration comes in smoothly when cruising but gives a bit of kick when overtaking is needed.

Overall I enjoyed my test drive and think that Audi has improved what was already a top-notch motor which should stay near the top of it sector.

More than 1.6 million Q5s have been sold worldwide since its introduction in 2008 and the second generation is sure to continue to attract even more sales.