Audi's most successful model on a global scale has officially landed in South Africa, and we had a stint in two of the three models launched in our market to get a feel for what to expect from the third generation.
Just as a refresher, it is important to note that this Q5 model has entered a new generation and isn't just another facelift. This new generation means that the vehicle shifts to the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture that supports ICE and NEV power sources and introduces a heavily digitized cabin, updated mild-hybrid systems, a more agile and fun suspension setup, and evolutionary styling.
The Q5 nameplate in South Africa has experienced much success in numbers since debuting in Mzansi selling over 11 000 units in its first generation, the second generation experienced a bump down in numbers due to the changes in consumer preferences and pricing but still managed to move a healthy 8500 units. Now in this new age, where Audi are equipped with more of a researched knowledge of what consumers want, understanding their clients and complying to global standards, the Q5 in its third generation offers up variety in terms of power trains, specs and the preferred Coupe body style option which Audi customers can't get enough of.
Furthermore in the business presentation, Audi presented that the busy year they had in terms of local introduction was merely just a warm up for what is to come in 2027. Markus Schuster was elated to share the plans of introducing some more Q nameplates in the form of the Q7 which he claims is already on South African soil, completing some final testing as homologation units, he alluded no how the new Q7 will be more capable on the beaten track whilst balancing and maintaining pose on road.
In a first for our market, Audi SA will also introduce the newly unveiled Q9 flagship SUV which looks to take on the likes of the BMW X7 and Mercedes Benz GLS. The Q9 is flagship model that will look to push the envelope in terms of technology, debut the brands new interior and exterior as well pushing the levels luxury to the max.
The Audi Q5 range in our market as it stands (from launch)
For our market the engine options made available are the TFSI 2.0-litre turbopetrol that produces 200 kW and 400 Nm. Second up on the list is surpringsly a retention of a diesel in the form of a 2.0-litre turbodiesel TDI which produces 150 kW and 400 Nm, the top of the range offering is a 3.0-litre V6 TFSI SQ5 which is the perfomance orientated model that produces 270 kW and 550 Nm, completing 0–100 km/h in about 4.5 seconds and featuring real functional tailpipes instead of faux trim. All models are paired to a 8 speed DSG which portions power to all four wheels via the brands smart Quattro system.
The all-new Q5 entered its third generation, which saw it gain the brand's new design language, improved and upgraded technology features, as well as a change in platform. The family midsize SUV has touched down in Mzansi and looks to continue the tussle against the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC.
The Q5 ushers in the progressive SUV design, which does away with the boxy proportions of the previous model in exchange for a more curved and smoother surfaces. Starting up front the vehicle gains a more fluid fascia that almost looks like the A5, thanks to the redesigned Singleframe grille that is accentuated by a stainless steel edge surround and honeycomb accents
The side profile, either Sportback or Coupe' body style, opens you up to a carefully curated options list of wheel design to chose from depending on the chosen trim (S line or S line Black). Wheels sizes start from 20-inch alloy wheels and 21-inch Audi Sport designs should you go for the more sport oriented SQ5 mdoels.
The rear also gets a distinctive look, moving away from the similarities it previously shared with the larger Q7. Audi's new LED rear lights are housed within a light bar and offer selectable light signatures.
On board gaming for your passanger
The interior setup consists of an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus for the driver, which is crisp and highly configurable, joined to a 14.5-inch curved MMI touch display that runs Audi's latest Multi Media Interface. There is also the option of having a passenger display that runs the updated interface, allowing the front passenger to control media, stream video (such as YouTube), view navigation maps, or check vehicle telemetry without distracting the driver, and more importantly, independently from the infotainment screen. With your account logged in, you are now able to download games and play them using a joystick or even your phone to control.
The TDI is the more grown up of the range
It is quite surprising to still be able to drive off in a diesel vehicle nowadays as the fuel options has become a rarity to find but luckily we are still one of the few markets that still enjoys this kind of power plant. The TDI gives one a little more torque meaning that towing all the while carrying both passengers and their luggage bags would be a breeze.
In our short stint around the beautiful scenic mountain passes of the Stellenbosch region, it showcased the car's ability to lug onward without showing any bit of hesitation or underpoweredness, which is what one loves about a diesel. The vehicle was very quiet from the cabin, as you wouldn't notice that it is a diesel. The drive was a comfortable one, and while reserved, the car did show a bit of sprightfulness when driven a bit enthusiastically.
It is definently a chilled laybacked vehicle for those who still want to enjoy fuel efficiency on long trips as well as the peace of mind of overpacking with uneccsary add on that will be chucked into the boot.
The V6 brings a bit of contrast into the mix
The first thing I must commend the Audi brand on is listening to the people. Because of this, we have buttons, or rather dials, making a formal return to the vehicle's interior, which can be spotted on the multifunctional steering that is flat-bottomed on the SQ5 models. Furthermore, we get to see the return of real quad exhaust tailpipes! These are not all show, though, since they produce such a sumptuous burble. Although V6s tend to sound a bit on the plain side, I would believe Audi if they said they spent some time tuning the noise the car produces ; it's so good that it doesn't even need Akrapovic exhausts.
The mountainous bends provided a bit of room to showcase whether the SQ5 was all show and no go or rather a polished vehicle with some performance to offer. The first noticeable thing to note is that the car is heavy, and you can certainly feel it whenever you are pushing it and changing direction suddenly.
However, I cannot help but mention that this is where the Quattro all-wheel-drive smart system comes into play. In the SQ5, the all-wheel-drive system works intelligently to improve the turning of the vehicle at high speeds into corners as a means of lowering or eradicating top heaviness and understeer. It was quite evident that when hitting the bends at some great momentum, the car had a handler helper on board to keep you in check.
Although the time was short, the vehicle proved to be quite the formidable "Have Fun" kind of SUV, which again is a dying breed to have nowadays. It shall be interesting to have the car on test to thoroughly see what it really has in store.
It is important to note that there is an option of either a SUV body style or Coupe for all derivatives.
Pricing and comprehensive GFV structure
- Q5 S line - R1,295,000 (SUV) / R1,365,000 (Sportback)
- Q5 S line Black - R1,350,000 (SUV) / R1,420,000 (Sportback)
- Q5 S line Diesel - R1,275,000 (Sportback)
- Q5 S line Black Diesel - R1,330,000 (Sportback)
- SQ5 - R1,510,000 (SUV) / R1,580,000 (Sportback)
- SQ5 Black - R1,565,000 (SUV) / R1,635,000 (Sportback)
Every model is sold with Audi South Africa's comprehensive 5-year/100,000 km Audi Freeway Plan as standard, ensuring complete peace of mind throughout ownership. It doesn't end there, Audi has noticed the importance of giving South Africans the benefits of owning a vehicle through a extensive Guaranteed Future Value program. This type of setup is vital for those who want peace of mind when owning a vehicle through understanding that there is a flexible finance option that locks in your car’s minimum worth at the end of your loan term.