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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FAQ
Q: What does the Audi Q5 cost in South Africa?
The Audi Q5 starts at R852,000 for the base 40 TDI Quattro, with the Advanced trim at R871,000, S line at R897,000, the 45 TFSI Quattro S line at R947,000, and the range-topping SQ5 TFSI Quattro priced at R1,208,000.
Q: Is the Audi Q5 worth buying in 2024?
The updated Q5 is absolutely worth considering if you want a premium SUV that balances luxury, performance, and practicality, especially with its fresh styling updates and proven Quattro all-wheel drive system that handles our diverse South African road conditions brilliantly.
Q: What's the difference between the Q5 40 TDI and 45 TFSI?
The 40 TDI uses a 140 kW/400 Nm turbodiesel that's better for fuel economy and torque, while the 45 TFSI packs a more powerful 183 kW/370 Nm mild-hybrid turbopetrol engine that delivers sportier performance but costs R50,000 more at R947,000.
Q: How fast is the Audi SQ5?
The SQ5 rockets from 0-100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds thanks to its potent 260 kW/500 Nm turbocharged V6 engine, making it the performance hero of the Q5 lineup.
Q: Which Audi Q5 variant should I choose?
For most buyers, the Q5 40 TDI S line at R897,000 hits the sweet spot with diesel efficiency, sporty looks, and all the essential kit, while petrolheads should splash out R1,208,000 for the thunderous SQ5.
Should You Buy It?
The best premium compact SUV under R950,000 in South Africa is the Audi Q5 40 TDI S line at R897,000. This updated Q5 ticks all the right boxes with its refined turbodiesel engine, bulletproof Quattro system, fresh styling, and that unmistakable Audi interior quality that makes every drive feel special. Yes, you should absolutely buy it if you want a proper luxury SUV that won't break the bank or leave you stranded, and at R897,000 for the S line, you're getting tremendous value in this segment. The SQ5 at R1,208,000 is only worth the extra cash if you genuinely need that V6 soundtrack and 5.4-second sprint time for your weekend adventures.
