The all new Q5 entered its third generation which saw it gain the brands 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.
A new era of progressive design
Built on Audi's new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), 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 grilled is further flanked by the intelligent LED headlights plus which are now standard on all Q5 trims, below the lights are the new functional air curtains that depending on chosen trim are either bezeled in brushed aluminum or gloss black trim.
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.
Every model in the Audi Q5 range is offered exclusively in S line specification which means that all models will come equipped with most exterior accessories but should you want to choose to tick off more options the are more items to add to aesthetics. The Q5 model range also has 10 exterior colors to choose from which include the new Sakhir Gold Metallic, Grenadine Red Metallic and Tambora Metallic paint finishes just to name a few. Audi exclusive paint offers are also optional.
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 lightbar and offer selectable light signatures. Lower down is a redesigned diffuser and, thankfully, some real tailpipe outlets. Thank you, Audi.
Audi says their interior is a "digitally luxurious" space
At the heart of the cabin is Audi's new Digital Stage, a three-screen setup that gives the Q5 a distinctly technology-focused interior. In detail this setup consist of a 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus for the driver which is usually crisp and highly configurable, 14.5-inch curved MMI touch display which runs Audi's latest Multi Media Interface. The passenger will also have their own optional display to play around with allowing for navigation access, access to music without distracting the driver thanks to an Active Privacy Mode.
For the cabin "feel" Audi have upgraded quality and the list of available interior trims, surfaces, including the introduction of eco-friendly materials. Occupants nested in the cabin benefit from interior mood lighting, electronically adjustable seating, three-zone deluxe automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging, just to name a few niceties.
The cabin has not lost on any kind of practicality as the Q5 benefits from a wheelbase of 2,820 mm which allows for up to 520 litres of luggage capacity in the SUV and 515 litres in the Sportback, and foldable rear seating.
A new era of intelligent technology
Audi has also expanded the Q5's suite of driver assistance and safety technology, with equipment packaged into optional Tech Plus and Tech Pro packages. Standard equipment available in the Q5 range includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Emergency Brake Assist, Front Cross Traffic Assist, Park Assist Plus, Surround View Cameras, Side Assist, Exit Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Assist and Audi Pre Sense.
Engine options available
While the latest Q5 range introduces plug-in hybrid powertrains internationally, Mzansi will initially make do with petrol and diesel options.
In no particular order, the first engine available to choose from is a 2.0 TFSI petrol engine that outputs 200 kW and 400 Nm. The engine is paired to a seven-speed S tronic transmission which drives all four via the Quattro system and is said to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.
For those seeking more torque and towing on long trips, then you have the option of picking a Q5 2.0 TDI that produces 150 kW and 400 Nm of torque with the same pairing of a seven-speed S tronic transmission. There is a optional air suspension which allows drivers to tailor ride height and damping characteristics through Audi drive select, enhancing comfort, agility and confidence across a wide range of driving conditions.
The flagship engine option comes courtesy of a 3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine, exclusive to the sport oriented SQ5 model. This performance tuned engine produces 270 kW and 550 Nm and thanks to the quattro all-wheel drive and S sport suspension, the vehicle achieves a claimed 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.
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.
The new Q5 arrives in a segment where the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC have already established themselves as strong contenders. With its new platform, sharper technology offering and more distinctive design, Audi has now given the Q5 the tools to fight back. Whether that translates into a stronger position in Mzansi remains to be seen.