Audi offers over 15 different models in South Africa, with many of them competing at the top of their segments; the A4 is a highly popular sedan, while the A3 is a mainstay of the hatchback segment. It's clear that Audi builds great cars, but for the German automaker, few models offer the level of luxury as the Q5 SUV.
With the rise in popularity of SUV models in recent years, Audi has placed itself in a prime position to capitalise with its SUV range. Comfortable, spacious, and dynamic, the Audi Q5 offers nearly everything a driver would want in a vehicle.
Interestingly, the Q5 is the result of a unique partnership between Audi and Volkswagen; the Q5 is designed off the platform of the Volkswagen Touareg SUV.
With this in mind, can the Audi Q5 separate itself from the more affordable Volkswagen Touareg? Let's look at what the Audi Q5 SUV offers.
Launched in 2008, the Audi Q5 was made available to the public following a positive reception of the concept model shown at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. Originally, this concept was the convertible Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro featuring two doors.
The model that launched in 2008 resembled a more standard SUV design, however, with four doors and an arching, coupe-like roof. This model was also debuted before its launch at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
The Audi Q5 model remained unchanged for a number of years, with various concepts and special builds showcased at international auto shows. In 2012, however, Audi gave the Q5 a facelift with an ultra-modern design.
The second-generation Audi Q5 was unveiled in 2018 and is the present model. Featuring a brand new and edgier design, the new Audi Q5 elevated the model to compete better with the advancing competition.
The Audi Q5 exterior is a modern expression of the brand's focused design language. Sharp edges and corners replaced the older curved styling around some detailing, with the aggressive headlights and grille dominating the front view.
Nifty features include Audi Matrix LED headlights, which light up the path ahead, and dynamic turn signals which bring a little theatre to the simple task of indicating; rather than blinking lights, Audi opted to use moving LED lights to show the turning direction.
The Audi Q5 interior is where the vehicle really gets into its stride. Drivers are greeted with a dynamic facia and full-view infotainment system. The 12.3-inch virtual cockpit replaces the standard dials with a large adjustable screen displaying all relevant information.
The Audi Q5 is available in a 2.0-litre turbo diesel or 2.0 TFSI engine, with the latter producing 185kW and using 6.8 L/100km while emitting 154 g/km of CO2.
Audi South Africa offers the Q5 at all of its dealerships across the country, alongside other popular Audi models like the A1, A4, and R8. The Audi Q5 can also be configured and purchased online using the Audi South Africa website.
Audi Financial Services offers an in-house financing option, with various payment terms and interest rates available. To see if you qualify to buy an Audi Q5, visit the Audi South Africa website or contact your nearest dealership.
The base model Audi Q5 retails from R711,500.
Audi's Q5 service plan and warranty options are available under their Audi Freeway Plan, a comprehensive cover over 5 Years/100 000 km. The brand does offer Audi Assist which provides owners with 24/7, countrywide roadside assistance.
They also offer Audi Motor Body Repairers, a list of Audi-approved service centres that will help keep your vehicle in great condition.
According to a vehicle theft risk report conducted by Ctrack, a leading vehicle tracking and recovery agency, Audi ranks among the top 10 highest risks for auto theft in South Africa. Most insurers will factor this in when you're looking for Audi Q5 insurance quotes.
That doesn't mean you can't get an excellent car cover deal on your Q5 though. Compare a range of Audi Q5 car insurance quotes online using the hippo.co.za comparison tool in just a few minutes and find the cover that suits you and your Q5 best.
Prices quoted are correct at the time of publishing this article. The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or medical advice.
