Bucket Seat: Audi Q5 - First Impressions

Audi South Africa brought the all-new third-generation Q5 to Cape Town yesterday, and after getting behind the wheel on some of the Western Cape’s scenic roads, it is clear that the German marque is continuing to refine a formula that has worked exceptionally well over the years. Following the introduction of Audi’s new Q design language, which we first saw locally with the new Q3 earlier this year, the latest Q5 brings fresh styling, updated technology and improved efficiency to one of the brand’s most important models.

The new Q5 takes a different approach to styling, moving away from sharp edges and aggressive lines in favour of smoother curves and a more sculpted appearance. There are noticeable similarities between the Q5 and the new A5 sedan, particularly in the way the body flows from the front to the rear. It gives the SUV a more sophisticated look without losing the strong road presence we have come to expect from an Audi. Up front, the new Matrix LED lighting signature immediately catches your attention, with customisable daytime running light signatures and the headlamps integrated into the same cluster, unlike some of Audi’s other Q models, where the lighting elements are separated. It is a subtle but important design distinction that helps give the Q5 its own identity within the growing SUV line-up.

The Q5 remains one of Audi’s most important models, accounting for a significant portion of sales across the Q range. Interestingly, South African buyers have shown a preference for the Sportback derivative over the traditional SUV body style, adding a more coupe-inspired silhouette to the mix. It is a sign that buyers in this premium segment are looking for practicality, but they also want a vehicle that makes a statement.

Diesel remains a popular choice among South African Q5 buyers, and Audi has continued to develop this derivative with the addition of a mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powertrain. While it is not a conventional hybrid that you plug in or drive on electric power alone for extended distances, the system assists the combustion engine in several ways. It can support smoother starts, provide an electric boost when required and help reduce turbo lag, all while improving overall efficiency. Audi claims an average fuel consumption figure of around 5.1 litres per 100 km for the relevant diesel derivative, which is impressive for an SUV of this size. With fuel economy still an important consideration for many South African motorists, the mild-hybrid system adds another layer of appeal to an already practical package.

For those wanting something with a little more punch, the SQ5 takes things up a notch with its 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 kW and 550 Nm of torque. That combination delivers a more powerful driving experience than the previous model, with plenty of muscle available when you need it. Our drive took us through the challenging Du Toitskloof Pass, where the SQ5 felt composed and well balanced as the road twisted and climbed through the mountains. It handled the changing corners with confidence, while the strong torque made light work of the gradients. It is the sort of road that allows you to appreciate the balance between performance, comfort and everyday usability, and the SQ5 managed to bring these elements together nicely.

I did not get an opportunity to drive the petrol TFSI derivative during the launch, but that is one I am looking forward to spending more time with when I get behind the wheel in Durban. It will be interesting to see how it compares with the diesel in terms of performance, refinement and everyday driving.

Step inside the new Q5 and the cabin will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced the latest A5. The layout is clean, modern and driver-focused, with the various controls and displays arranged to make the driving experience feel intuitive rather than overwhelming. The test vehicles were equipped with a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and as expected, the audio experience was excellent. Whether you are enjoying your favourite playlist on a long-distance drive or simply making the most of the commute, the sound system adds another layer of luxury to the overall package.

One of the more interesting technology options is the passenger display, which brings entertainment features into the front passenger seat. The screen supports Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphones, allowing passengers to enjoy their own content without disturbing the driver. There is also a gamification element, with the ability to connect a gaming console controller and download games, turning the passenger display into something more than just another screen on the dashboard. Audi has also considered the potential for distraction, with privacy technology designed to prevent the driver from viewing the passenger display, helping them remain focused on the road. It is a clever addition that shows how manufacturers are finding new ways to integrate entertainment into the cabin without compromising the driving experience.

The third-generation Audi Q5 arrives at a time when competition in the premium SUV segment is stronger than ever. Buyers have no shortage of options, but Audi has given its latest offering a convincing combination of fresh styling, updated technology, improved efficiency and the sort of refinement that has made the Q5 such a popular choice. Pricing is competitive for a premium SUV of this calibre, putting the new Q5 in a strong position against its established rivals.

My time with the new Q5 was brief, but the initial impression is positive. The design feels more contemporary, the cabin delivers the premium experience expected from Audi, and the SQ5 proved to be a capable companion on the challenging roads around Cape Town. I am keen to spend more time with the range, particularly the petrol TFSI derivative, before giving a more detailed verdict. For now, the new Q5 has made a strong first impression, and I look forward to putting it through its paces when it arrives for a full test.

Pricing:

Engine	Model	SUV	Sportback
2.0 TFSI	Q5 S Line	R1,295,000	R1,365,000
2.0 TFSI	Q5 S Line Black	R1,350,000	R1,420,000
2.0 TDI	Q5 S Line	Coming in 2027	R1,275,000
2.0 TDI	Q5 S Line Black	Coming in 2027	R1,330,000
3.0 V6 TFSI	SQ5	R1,510,000	R1,580,000
3.0 V6 TFSI	SQ5 Black	R1,565,000	R1,635,000

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A27 - Tested

Samsung has built a reputation for delivering smartphones that strike a good balance between quality, performance and affordability, and the Galaxy A-series continues to be one of the brand's strongest offerings for consumers who want a dependable device without spending flagship money. The Samsung Galaxy A27 follows that same philosophy, bringing together a premium-feeling design, a large display, capable cameras and reliable everyday performance in a package aimed at the budget-conscious smartphone buyer. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of Samsung's more expensive Galaxy S-series, there is plenty to appreciate about what this device brings to the table.

DESIGN

One of the things Samsung consistently gets right across its smartphone range is build quality, and the Galaxy A27 is no exception in everyday use. Even at the more affordable end of the market, you expect a certain level of refinement from Samsung, and the A27 delivers the kind of solid, well-finished feel that makes it comfortable to use as your daily driver. The design is clean and modern, without unnecessary gimmicks, giving the device a look that feels right at home alongside more expensive smartphones.

What makes this particularly impressive is that Samsung manages to maintain that sense of quality without pushing the price into premium territory. The phone feels practical, well put together and suited to everyday life, whether you are using it for work, catching up with friends, browsing social media or enjoying your favourite content on the go. It is a reminder that an affordable smartphone does not have to feel cheap, and that is something Samsung has consistently understood with its A-series lineup.

DISPLAY

A smartphone's display is one of its most important features, especially when it is the screen you spend hours looking at every day. Thankfully, the Galaxy A27 makes a strong impression here, offering a large display that gives you plenty of room to enjoy videos, scroll through social media, read articles and navigate between apps. For a device positioned towards the lower end of the market, having a screen that feels spacious and delivers a smooth viewing experience is a definite plus.

The refresh rate is another highlight, helping everyday scrolling and screen transitions feel fluid rather than sluggish. This makes a noticeable difference when moving through menus, browsing websites or jumping between applications. Combined with the generous screen size, the display makes the A27 a comfortable device for both productivity and entertainment. Samsung has long understood the importance of display quality, and that experience is reflected in the way the screen contributes to the overall user experience.

 PERFORMANCE

Budget smartphones often have to make compromises when it comes to processing power, particularly when users start pushing them with multiple applications and demanding tasks. The Galaxy A27, however, delivers a pleasing everyday experience, handling regular usage with ease. From messaging and emails to browsing, streaming and social media, the phone feels capable of keeping up with the demands of a typical day without making every task feel like a chore.

Multitasking is an important part of how we use our smartphones today, and the A27 does a respectable job of managing the usual mix of applications. Switching between tasks and keeping up with everyday usage feels smooth, making it a practical option for consumers who need a phone that can do more than simply make calls and send messages. Of course, performance will depend on the applications being used and how heavily the device is pushed, but for its intended audience, the overall experience is reassuring.

Gaming is another area where the phone holds its own. Casual gaming feels smooth and responsive, with no noticeable lag during the type of gameplay the device is designed to handle. Whether you are looking to pass the time with a quick mobile game or enjoy a longer gaming session, the A27 offers a decent experience for its price category. More demanding titles may require lower graphics settings to maintain consistent performance, but that is a reasonable compromise for a phone aimed at the more affordable end of the market.

CAMERA

Samsung has made camera performance a major selling point across much of its smartphone range, and the Galaxy A27 offers a capable photography experience for everyday users. The camera captures good-looking pictures in favourable lighting conditions, producing images that are well suited to sharing on social media, sending to friends and keeping those everyday memories alive. Whether you are snapping a quick picture while out and about or capturing something interesting during your day, the camera proves capable of delivering pleasing results without requiring much effort from the user.

Where the camera starts to struggle is in low-light conditions. As the lighting becomes more challenging, image quality takes a hit, with details becoming less impressive and photographs not looking quite as clean as they do in brighter environments. This is not entirely unexpected at this price point, but it is worth keeping in mind if you regularly take pictures at night, indoors or in dimly lit settings. The camera is at its best when it has sufficient light to work with, and that is where users will get the most out of it.

Video recording is similarly suited to the phone's intended purpose. It is perfectly fine for capturing everyday moments, recording short clips and creating content to share with friends or on social media. While it is not designed to compete with the more advanced video capabilities of Samsung's flagship devices, it does enough to make the camera useful beyond still photography. For the average consumer, the overall camera package is more than serviceable, provided expectations remain realistic when the lighting gets difficult.

BATTERY

Battery life is another important consideration when choosing an affordable smartphone, because nobody wants to spend the day constantly searching for a charger. The Galaxy A27 delivers pretty decent battery life, comfortably fitting into the everyday routine of messaging, browsing, streaming and general smartphone use. For consumers who use their phones throughout the day for a mixture of work and entertainment, that reliability is a welcome part of the experience.

As always, battery performance will depend on individual usage. Spending hours gaming, watching videos at high brightness or keeping numerous applications active will naturally consume more power than lighter use. Nevertheless, the A27 offers a practical battery experience that complements its role as an everyday smartphone. It may not be the most exciting feature on the specification sheet, but dependable battery life is exactly what many consumers want from a device in this category.

VERDICT

The Samsung Galaxy A27 is another reminder that you do not have to spend a fortune to get a smartphone that covers the essentials well. From its solid build quality and large, smooth display to its capable everyday performance, enjoyable casual gaming and good daylight photography, the device ticks many of the boxes that matter most to the average consumer. The camera's low-light limitations are worth noting, but they do little to take away from what is otherwise a well-rounded everyday experience.

For the South African consumer, value for money remains a major consideration when shopping for a new smartphone, and this is where the Galaxy A27 makes its case. Samsung brings the familiarity, refinement and usability that buyers have come to expect from the brand, without requiring them to spend flagship-level money. If you are looking for a dependable smartphone for everyday use, entertainment, photography and staying connected, the Galaxy A27 deserves consideration. It is another solid value-focused offering from Samsung, proving that a good smartphone experience does not always have to come with a premium price tag.

Monday Choon: Dom Dolla, Solomun, Skepta - DANGER DANGER

Some tracks are released with hype, while others are practically demanded by the crowd before they even exist, and Dom Dolla, Solomun and Skepta’s “DANGER DANGER” is exactly that kind of track. After being teased and road-tested for months, the hype reached another level during Dom Dolla’s huge Melbourne show, with fans already knowing the track before its official release. Bringing together Dom’s club-ready production, Solomun’s darker electronic sound and Skepta’s unmistakable grime energy, the trio have created something seriously unique that feels tailor-made for the festival stage. With its infectious bassline, attitude and massive drops, “DANGER DANGER” is set to be one of those tracks that will absolutely go off when it hits festival speakers and thousands of fans lose their minds.

Bucket Seat: Audi Q3 Sportback S Line Black 1.4 TFSI

The Audi Q3 has always been one of those premium compact SUVs that quietly gets the job done, but with the arrival of the all-new Q3 Sportback, Audi has given the model a much-needed injection of attitude. I recently spent some time with the Q3 Sportback S line Black, finished in, you guessed, it black, and there is something about this particular specification that really suits the new design. Starting at R964 000 for the 1.4 TFSI S line Black, the Sportback sits firmly in premium territory, but it also brings a sharper design, a more modern interior and plenty of technology to the table.

DESIGN

I quite like the look of the new Q3, but it is the Sportback that really brings Audi's latest design language to life. Where the previous-generation Q3 Sportback could sometimes look like a standard Q3 with a roofline added for good measure, this new generation feels much more cohesive. The clean lines, smoother curves and more sculpted body give it a mature appearance, while still retaining enough attitude to make it stand out in a crowded premium SUV segment. Up front, Audi has taken a different approach with the lighting signature, and the split headlight design gives the Q3 a far more sophisticated appearance than its predecessor. It is a cleaner, more modern interpretation of the Audi face, and when combined with the black exterior treatment of the S line Black package, the car takes on a particularly sinister appearance. The darker exterior detailing works nicely with the aggressive front end, while the overall proportions make the Sportback look lower and wider than it actually is. Move around to the side and this is where the Sportback earns its name. The sloping roofline flows neatly into the rear of the vehicle without making the car look awkward or overly compromised. In fact, I think this is one of the best angles of the new Q3. It has that sleek, almost coupe-like profile that buyers in this segment are looking for, while still retaining the practicality expected from an SUV. At the rear, the illuminated Audi logo is another small but very cool touch, and combined with the modern rear light signature, it gives the Q3 a distinctive night-time presence. Audi has managed to make the new Q3 look more grown-up without making it boring, and that is probably my favourite aspect of the exterior.

PERFORMANCE

Under the bonnet of the Q3 Sportback S line Black is Audi's familiar 1.4-litre four-cylinder TFSI turbocharged petrol engine producing 110 kW and 250 Nm. It is paired with Audi's seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and sends its power to the front wheels. Audi claims a 0-100 km/h time of 9.1 seconds, which tells you pretty much everything you need to know about the character of this engine. The 1.4 TFSI is by no means a bad engine. Around town it is smooth, refined and perfectly capable of dealing with everyday driving, and the S tronic gearbox does a great job of making the most of what the engine has to offer. The problem is that there are moments when the Q3 feels like it could do with a little more punch. Put your foot down for an overtaking manoeuvre or ask for a quick burst of acceleration and there can be a noticeable moment where you are waiting for the gearbox and engine to wake up. Once it does, the S tronic transmission shifts quickly and keeps things moving, but I couldn't help thinking that the Q3's sporty exterior deserves an engine with a little more muscle. This is where the 2.0-litre TDI becomes an interesting alternative. It produces the same 110 kW, but torque jumps significantly to 360 Nm, giving it considerably more pulling power than the petrol model. For buyers who spend plenty of time on the highway, carry passengers regularly or simply prefer that effortless shove that comes with a healthy dose of diesel torque, the TDI could make more sense. It does, however, push the price of the S line Black Sportback beyond the R1-million mark, at R1 002 300, so there is a significant financial consideration too.

COMFORT

Inside is where the new Q3 really shows just how far Audi has moved the game on. The new interior design language is much more modern than before, and the curved panoramic display immediately grabs your attention. It combines the digital driver's display with the central infotainment screen to create a much cleaner, more integrated dashboard rather than simply having two screens stuck onto it. Audi's latest MMI interface is intuitive and relatively easy to navigate, and importantly, it doesn't take long to find the functions you use most often. I also really like the new steering wheel. It sounds like a small detail, but the redesigned wheel and its multifunction controls give the cabin a much more contemporary feel. Audi has also reworked the controls around the steering column, with the gear selector moved to the steering column, freeing up space around the centre console. It is a clever use of space and contributes to that feeling that Audi has properly redesigned the cabin rather than simply giving the previous Q3 a technology upgrade.

The cabin itself is typical Audi clean, modern and well put together with the sort of build quality you expect from a premium German brand. There is also a good balance between technology and everyday usability, while the Sportback's body shape doesn't completely sacrifice practicality. The rear bench can slide to help balance passenger and luggage space, while boot capacity is 488 litres and expands substantially with the rear seats folded. There is, however, one feature that really bothered me: the seats. My test car had manually adjustable seats, and I honestly feel that this is an area Audi could have done better. When you are talking about a vehicle with a starting price of R964 000 in this specification, I expect at least electrically adjustable front seats, particularly for the driver. It might sound like a small complaint, but at this level of the market, buyers are paying for that premium experience, and electric seat adjustment should feel like part of the package rather than something you need to add to the options list.

VERDICT

The new Audi Q3 Sportback is an interesting evolution of what was already a strong product for Audi. It doesn't try to reinvent the compact premium SUV formula completely, but instead takes what worked with the previous Q3 and gives it a much more modern interpretation. The Sportback body style is, in my opinion, the one to have because it gives the Q3 a much sleeker and more distinctive presence, particularly in the S line Black specification. The combination of the black exterior, sharper lighting design, flowing roofline and illuminated Audi logo at the rear gives it plenty of road presence without becoming overly flashy. For South African buyers, though, the pricing is where things become interesting. The new range starts at R814 200 for the conventional Q3 and R849 200 for the Sportback, while the S line Black Sportback tested here comes in at R964 000. That represents a significant increase over the outgoing generation, although Audi has also brought a considerably more modern interior, new technology and a fresh exterior design to the table. The range also comes standard with a five-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway Plan, which adds some value to the overall ownership proposition.

The competition is just as tough, though. The BMW X2 brings its own coupe-SUV interpretation to the segment, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA continues to appeal to buyers looking for that three-pointed-star premium experience. The Q3 Sportback's advantage is that it feels like a very well-rounded package: stylish without being excessive, technologically advanced without being overly complicated and comfortable enough for everyday use. The 1.4 TFSI does leave me wanting a little more performance, and the lack of standard electric seat adjustment is difficult to overlook at this price, but the S tronic gearbox does a good job of compensating for the engine's limitations. Ultimately, the new Q3 Sportback feels like Audi has finally brought the Q3 properly into the modern era. It looks sharper, feels more premium inside and has the technology to match its rivals. If you want the practicality of a compact SUV but don't want something that looks like every other SUV on the road, the Sportback makes a compelling case and in S line Black guise, it is easily one of the best-looking versions of the new Q3.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.4L TFSI
Gear Box	7-Speed S-Tronic
Power	110kW
Torque	250Nm
Fuel Effeciency	6.8L per 100km
Price	R849,200*

*Base Model

 

Bucket Tech: Honor X5d - Coming Soon

HONOR is shaking up the entry-level smartphone game with a phone that comes with a rather unusual party trick, two screens. The new X5d s packs a 6.78-inch 120Hz display, UNISOC T610 processor, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage and a massive 6000mAh battery, while around the back sits a secondary touch-enabled display that gives you quick access to notifications, media controls and even lets you use the main 50MP AI camera for sharper selfies. It’s a clever bit of tech that gives the X5d s something different in a segment where smartphones can often feel very similar. Add in the practical features and sizeable battery, and HONOR could have a seriously interesting budget offering on its hands.

Despite its budget positioning, the X5d s doesn’t look like it has been built down to a price. HONOR has given it a clean, modern design with a slim profile, rounded edges and a neat camera arrangement, while the dual-screen setup on the rear adds a bit of personality to the overall package. The 6000mAh battery is another big talking point, giving users plenty of capacity for getting through the day without constantly hunting for a charger. It will also be available in a selection of colours, giving buyers a little more choice when it comes to making the phone their own. The HONOR X5d s is arriving soon in South Africa, with a starting price of R2,499 at selected stores.

Monday Choon: Kyau & Albert - Halo

Kyau & Albert are back with “Halo”, a beautifully crafted trance cut that leans into the duo’s signature melodic sound while keeping the production clean and progressive. Released on Euphonic at 128 BPM, the track builds around an emotive melody, driving bassline and atmospheric layers that give it that classic late-night trance feel. What makes “Halo” stand out is its sense of emotion without becoming overly dramatic, with the arrangement gradually building momentum before delivering those euphoric melodic moments Kyau & Albert are known for. The track has also found its way onto Markus Schulz’s In Search of Sunrise 22, including a dedicated rework, which fits perfectly with its warm, atmospheric character.

Bucket Seat: Lepas L6 EV

Lepas is getting ready to make a bigger impression on the South African EV market with the arrival of the new L6 EV, an all-electric crossover that brings together sharp styling, decent performance and a claimed range of up to 450 km. Visually, the L6 has a modern and sporty stance, helped by its 19-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers, while the front-mounted electric motor produces 160 kW and 275 N.m, sending power to the front wheels. It also supports both AC and DC charging, making it practical for everyday use and longer journeys. Lepas is even sweetening the deal for early adopters, with the limited pre-order package including a 7 kW home charger, standard installation, a Type M charging cable, V2L functionality and R5,000 worth of charging credit.

Inside, the L6 continues with a strong technology focus, featuring an 8.88-inch digital instrument display and a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is also an eight-speaker Sony sound system, wireless smartphone charging, heated and ventilated electric front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and a powered tailgate. Safety has not been forgotten either, with 20 advanced driver-assistance systems, seven airbags, a panoramic camera and automatic parking forming part of the package. On paper at least, the L6 certainly doesn't feel like Lepas has tried to cut corners when it comes to standard equipment.

But the big number here is that 450 km range. For South African buyers, range remains one of the biggest considerations when making the switch to electric, and the L6's claimed figure should make it capable of handling the daily commute while still offering enough breathing room for longer trips. The inclusion of V2L is another nice touch, giving owners the ability to use the vehicle's battery to power compatible appliances and equipment. Add the home charger and installation into the pre-order package and Lepas is clearly trying to make the transition to EV ownership as straightforward as possible.

The one piece of the puzzle still missing is the price. Lepas has yet to confirm exactly how much the L6 EV will cost in South Africa, and that will ultimately determine where it sits in an increasingly crowded EV market. With Chinese manufacturers continuing to bring more electric models into the country, the L6 will need to offer the right combination of price, range and equipment to get buyers interested. For now, though, the L6 EV certainly looks like an interesting addition to the local market, and with its distinctive styling, 450 km range and generous specification, it is one we will be keeping an eye on. 

Bucket Tech: Huawei Pura X View

Huawei is taking a rather different approach with the new Pura X View, bringing a unique wide-screen concept to the smartphone market. Instead of the usual tall and narrow smartphone display, the Pura X View adopts a much wider 16:9.5 aspect ratio, giving it an almost passport-like appearance in the hand. The 6.39-inch OLED display features a sharp 2232 × 1320 resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive 96.1% screen-to-body ratio, making the device particularly suited to watching videos, browsing and consuming content.

Huawei has also packed the Pura X View with some serious hardware, particularly when it comes to photography and battery life. The camera setup includes a 200MP main sensor with optical image stabilisation, an 8MP ultra-wide/macro camera and a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with OIS, giving users plenty of flexibility across different shooting conditions. Then there is the huge 7,000mAh battery, which is particularly impressive considering the phone is just 6.68mm thick and weighs 201g. With support for 66W wired and 50W wireless charging, Huawei has clearly focused on making the Pura X View not only different in design, but also a device capable of comfortably handling heavy daily use.

What makes the Pura X View even more interesting is that Huawei has managed to create something that feels genuinely different in an increasingly familiar smartphone market. The unusual screen size, near edge-to-edge display, capable camera system and substantial battery give it a strong identity, rather than simply being another phone with a slightly different specification sheet. There is no word yet on whether the Huawei Pura X View will become available locally, but keep an eye out on our page to stay in touch with all the latest updates.

Monday Choon: KUKO - Voicemail (Tiësto Remix)

Tiësto puts his signature electronic touch on Cuco’s “Voicemail”, turning the dreamy, laid-back original into something built more for the dancefloor. The remix keeps the track’s nostalgic atmosphere and emotional vocals intact, while adding a cleaner electronic production, driving rhythm and uplifting energy that gives it a fresh club-ready feel. It’s a great example of Tiësto taking a softer indie-pop record and giving it just enough dance influence without losing what made the original so appealing.

Bucket Seat: Mazda CX-5 - First Impressions

Mazda has been relatively quiet in South Africa over the past few years, particularly since Covid, but the brand is slowly starting to find its way back into the spotlight. It’s not an easy task, especially with the growing Chinese onslaught bringing increasingly well-equipped and competitively priced SUVs to our market, but Mazda clearly has a plan, and the new CX-5 is going to play a big part in it. Taking over from one of Mazda’s best-selling models locally, the new CX-5 stays true to the brand’s Kodo design philosophy and, in my opinion, looks fantastic. The styling is clean, sophisticated and unmistakably Mazda, with a great selection of colours available, although the Soul Red was the one that really caught my eye as it popped under the Highveld sunlight. It has the presence of a premium SUV without going overboard with unnecessary styling, which is something Mazda has always managed to get right.

Power comes from a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 132kW and 240Nm, which is more than adequate for everyday driving and provides enough punch when you need to pick up pace or overtake. The six-speed automatic gearbox, however, does let the package down slightly, with the revs climbing higher than expected and the transmission sometimes holding onto gears unnecessarily. A turbocharged engine or a newer gearbox would certainly make the CX-5 even more appealing, particularly when compared with some of the newer competition. Where the CX-5 really impressed me was its ride quality. Whether cruising on the highway or travelling over gravel roads, the suspension remained composed and comfortable, making it feel like a vehicle that would be equally at home as a daily commuter or on a long-distance road trip. The interior has also received a significant overhaul, with the standout feature being the large 12.9-inch infotainment screen, along with a digital instrument cluster and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Wireless CarPlay was somewhat tricky to get working during my drive, eventually requiring a USB-C connection, but with two USB-C ports up front, there is still plenty of convenience.

The new CX-5 is available in four trim levels – Active, Dynamic, Individual and Homura – giving buyers a range of options depending on their budget and desired level of specification. Starting at R578,500, the CX-5 enters an extremely competitive mid-size SUV market, but Mazda is banking on more than just specification and pricing to win buyers over. There is a loyal following for the brand in South Africa, and the CX-5 combines that established reputation with attractive styling, improved technology, excellent comfort and a familiar driving experience. Order books are already open, with the first shipment reportedly almost secured, which shows that there is still a strong appetite for what Mazda offers. The Chinese competition may have changed the game, but the new CX-5 shows that Mazda isn't sitting back – it has a product that could help the brand find its voice again in South Africa.

Pricing and trim levels:

2.5L Active  - R578,500

2.5L Dynamic - R636,000

2.5L Individual - R717,000

2.5L Homura - R749,100