By Malusi Msomi

Audi South Africa has introduced its new Q5 range in South Africa, with the latest generation of the luxury midsize SUV bringing updated styling, new digital technology and a wider choice of powertrains.

The local line-up consists of four variants: the Q5 SUV, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 SUV and SQ5 Sportback.

New design and technology

Built on Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), the new Q5 gets a more sculpted exterior with a revised Singleframe grille, sharper headlights and a full-width rear light design.

All local models are offered in S line specification, with 20-inch alloy wheels fitted as standard. The Q5 Sportback adds a coupé-inspired roofline, while the SQ5 models receive additional performance-focused styling elements.

Inside, the Q5 features Audi’s new Digital Stage, combining an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus with a 14.5-inch curved MMI touch display. An optional 10.9-inch passenger display is also available.

Standard equipment includes electrically adjustable front sport seats, three-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, Park Assist Plus, surround-view cameras, wireless smartphone charging and Audi connect services.

Petrol, diesel and performance options

The Q5 2.0 TFSI produces 200 kW and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. It uses a seven-speed S tronic transmission and quattro ultra all-wheel drive.

The diesel-powered Q5 2.0 TDI produces 150 kW and 400 Nm, offering an alternative aimed at customers covering longer distances.

At the top of the range, the SQ5 uses a 3.0-litre V6 TFSI producing 270 kW and 550 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and comes with quattro all-wheel drive and S sport suspension.

Four variants for South Africa

The range is split between standard S line and S line Black models, while the SQ5 and SQ5 Black provide the performance-focused options.

The S line Black adds features including black exterior detailing, privacy glazing, black roof rails and distinctive Audi Sport alloy wheels. The SQ5 Black receives similar styling upgrades, along with 21-inch Audi Sport wheels.

Audi also offers Tech Plus and Tech Pro technology packages, adding features such as Matrix LED headlights, Adaptive Cruise Assist Plus, Digital OLED rear lights, enhanced emergency braking systems and Remote Park Assist.