Audi Q5 (2026) Launch Review

The third-generation Audi Q5 has finally launched in South Africa in both SUV and Sportback body styles. Has it been worth the wait?

The third-generation Audi Q5 was revealed back at the end of 2024, but finally South Africa has received its allocation of the rival to the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Lexus NX.

The reasons for the delay are manifold, but we speculate that with a single manufacturing plant in Mexico supplying the global market, larger (and predominantly left-hand drive) markets like Europe and the US took priority.

Audi South Africa has launched a comprehensive line-up of Q5 derivatives, spanning from the traditional premium SUV to the sleeker Sportback, backed by three engine choices. The goal is clear: generation three needs to replicate the success of its predecessors, which tallied 11 000 and 8 500 sales locally across generations one and two, respectively. Interestingly, Audi SA notes substantial interest in the Sportback body style over the standard SUV – a trend reflected at the launch event, where the majority of media test vehicles were supplied in Sportback trim.

Read more: Audi Q5 (2026) Price & Specs

What’s new on the Audi Q5?

The most significant changes lie beneath the skin. The Q5 transitions from the old MLB Evo architecture to Audi’s newer Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) setup – shared with the new A5 sedan – which streamlines the integration of hybrid powertrains.

Select engine variants also feature Audi’s updated mild-hybrid technology, badged MHEV Plus. By positioning a compact powertrain generator directly at the gearbox, the system contributes up to 18 kW and 230 Nm, enabling low-speed manoeuvring on pure electric power. Underpinning the cabin technology is new electronic architecture, which provides boosted computing power for faster processing and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Visually, the exterior design is dominated by high-tech lighting arrays, but the overall aesthetic remains clean, crisp and distinctly Audi.

Inside, the cabin undergoes a major transformation, headlined by an attractive curved panel that seamlessly houses both the digital instrument cluster and central infotainment display. Powered by an Android-based operating system, the screen quality is exceptional in both graphical crispness and touch responsiveness. An optional dedicated display is also available for the front passenger.

Despite the tech-focused appeal, a few interior details slightly sour the experience. There’s prominent use of high-gloss black plastic throughout the centre console and controls, which detracts from an otherwise plush and premium environment. It is a slight shame, given Audi’s long-standing reputation for building some of the best interiors in the segment.

For local buyers, Audi offers eight wheel designs ranging from 20 to 21 inches, along with three new paint shades (bringing the total exterior color palette to 10). Naturally, those willing to tick option boxes can further personalise their vehicles with various exterior trim packs, interior lines and advanced digital light signatures.

Engine range

There are three engines on offer, covering the bases of all-rounder, efficiency and performance.

• 2.0-litre turbopetrol (TFSI): Serves as the entry point, delivering an upgraded 200 kW and 400 Nm.
• 2.0-litre turbodiesel (TDI): Retained for diesel enthusiasts, producing 150 kW and 400 Nm while utilising the MHEV Plus setup.
• 3.0-litre V6 turbopetrol (SQ5): Positioned at the top of the range, generating a muscular 270 kW and 550 Nm. As the quickest model in the lineup, Audi claims a 0–100 kph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds. A welcome addition: real, functional Audi Sport tailpipes replace the outgoing model’s faux exhaust trim!

All derivatives come standard with an automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. Note that at launch, the 2.0 TDI diesel engine is exclusively available in the Q5 Sportback range; diesel variants of the standard SUV body style are scheduled to arrive locally in 2027.

What is the new Audi Q5 like to drive?

Our initial drive took place behind the wheel of a diesel-powered Sportback finished in District Green. Press the start button and … silence, save for the dashboard illumination. Pressing it a second time mistakenly shut the car off, before we realised the vehicle starts silently in its electric low-speed mode for parking manoeuvres.

The defining trait of the diesel engine is its refinement. It is remarkably quiet and smooth, yet it provides effortless in-gear thrust when called upon for typical 80 to 120 kph highway overtakes.

Following a smooth cruise up the N1 to Paarl, we switched into a petrol-powered Q5 Sportback to tackle the freshly resurfaced Du Toitskloof Pass. With the drive modes set to dynamic, we uncorked all 200 kW. While the typical Q5 owner isn’t likely to drive like they’re in an S3, the Sportback feels reassuringly composed and surefooted through fast bends. Pushed past its limits, physics inevitably takes over with mild tyre squeal and body roll, but the chassis feels far more alive and engaging than expected for a mid-size SUV.

After lunch, we took the wheel of the flagship Audi SQ5, which goes head-to-head with the BMW X4 M50 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. Featuring an upgraded version of the 3.0-litre V6 and a new dual-clutch transmission replacing the old torque-converter automatic, performance feels substantially sharper – shaving a full second off its 0–100 kph acceleration claim.

See how they compare using our handy tool: Audi SQ5 vs BMW X3 M50 vs Mercedes-AMG GLC 43

Does it feel faster on the road? Absolutely. Better yet, despite strict European emissions and noise restrictions, the SQ5 retains a glorious exhaust note complete with satisfying gearshift pops.

While diesel power has fallen out of favour across much of Europe, it remains arguably the sweet spot for South African conditions given our long-distance driving requirements. The petrol engines are capable, but the diesel’s combination of effortless refinement and long-distance cruising efficiency makes it the standout pick.

What does the new Audi Q5 SUV cost in SA?

The below prices include a 1-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

What does the new Audi Q5 Sportback cost in SA?

Summary

Has the new Audi Q5 been worth the wait? Yes. It combines sharper styling, a cutting-edge cabin and a well-rounded engine line-up that hits the sweet spot for the local market while retaining its signature mix of comfort and sportiness. (A plug-in hybrid powertrain exists globally, but is unlikely to arrive locally anytime soon).

Audi South Africa has a busy road ahead. Following the recent local arrival of the Q3 and this Q5 rollout, next year will see the introduction of the all-new Q7, SQ7 and flagship Q9.

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