Following an international reveal last year, Audi's classy Q5 SUV is finally available in South Africa. Aside from new features and specification, a number of visual enhancements ensure that the X3 rival remains crisp and fresh.
Kicking things off is the 40 TDI Quattro derivative. Fitted with a 140 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre turbodiesel, the four-pot diesel serves as the entry into the Q5 range, at R852 000 for the base-model. Of course, should you prefer a loftier trim level for your Q5 40 TDI, Audi is more than happy to oblige. An Advanced package comes in at R871 000 while the sportier looking S line model, with a honeycomb grille, is priced at R897 000. A seven-speed dual-clutch 'box sends the power to all four wheels via the Quattro system.
Sold exclusively in S line trim is the 45 TFSI Quattro, priced at R947 000. The turbopetrol utilises a 2.0-litre four-cylinder (with mild-hybrid technology) to create combined power figures of 183 kW and 370 Nm. Like the 40 TDI, the 45 TFSI makes use of the same gearbox, sending power to all four wheels.
Sitting at the summit of the range is the sonorous sounding SQ5 TFSI Quattro. The sporting option uses a gorgeous, turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol V6 with 260 kW and 500 Nm of torque. Unlike the 40 TDI and 45 TFSI, the SQ5 uses a more conventional eight-speed automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h is pretty brisk, with a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 5.4 seconds. The range-topping SQ5 is priced from R1 208 000. Equipment unique to the V6-powered SQ5 includes red brake calipers, sports suspension and a self-locking centre differential.
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