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 Seat: Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

We attended the launch of the new GLC Coupe in the picturesque Cape, to see what the second generation of this popular Sporty SUV had to offer. The previous generation did well in the local market given its niche segment, while most consumers are opting for SUV's for various reasons, many don't need the wagon look or space that comes along with it hence the Coupe body was created for those with a little more sporty side to them. The sleek silhouette 

Speaking at the launch, co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, Mark Raine had this to say about the GLC Coupe, "The Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe undoubtedly resonates with the affluent South African clientele. It speaks to that desire for adventure, both in the urban environment and the greater outdoors. The design is both contemporary and dynamic, it is the ultimate lifestyle accessory from the world’s most innovate and luxurious automotive brand."

The GLC Coupe will be launched in two engine variants locally, namely, the GLC220d and the GLC300d, both being diesel power engines which mild hybrid technology that is a 48-volt electric system to improve efficiency and power delivery, giving the driver a more dynamic and engaging drive from the cars. Both cars have a 2.0-litre diesel turbo engine with different power outputs, with the 220d producing 145kW and 440Nm of torque, while the 300d having 198kW and 550Nm of torque. This is all controlled via the 9-G automatic gearbox which controls the car with ease in the various driving modes. The car comes with a 4-matic four wheel drive system and includes AIRMATIC suspension that increases and decreases the cars ride height given the type of terrain its on. 

As frustrating as Cape Town traffic can be, sitting in the new GLC Coupe was quite nice, seeing its striking design shine among the other cars on the road made it quite the attraction for everyone else. Once the traffic calmed and we found quieter pastures, the GLC was then able to show us its pedigree, maneuvering around the twistys of the M6 freeway heading towards Hout Bay the agile nature of the car shone through, getting the car into manual mode made the car even more responsive and sporty, giving you the sense you were behind the wheel of a sports car rather than an SUV. When we encountered high winds along the famed Chapmans Peak drive was when you felt the bulkyness that comes along with the big body but thanks to that high torque factor and electric boost system, the car made light work of the wind from then out. 

On the interior, users will find themselves in a modern contemporary setting with the focal piece being the large MBUX display which incorporates the latest in tech that Mercedes-Benz has to offer, from its AI assistant that can control anything from switching on the aircon to closing the sunroof, yes, the new GLC Coupe now comes with an option to get the panaromic sunroof, something that wasn't offered in the previous generation. Easy connectivity for mobile phones which includes wireless mobile apps such as Android Auto and Car Play make it easy to communicate while on the move. The seats are all electrically adjustable with dual zone climate control standard. The car has a 15-speaker hi-fi sound system that will be a pleasure to any music fans ears, whether you're blasting Taylor Swift or Opera, anything sounds good that coming through those speakers, can't say the same for our own singing though. 

Overall, first impressions of the new GLC Coupe are good, nothing that we aren't used to from the luxury German brand, in terms of innovations there are quite a few and we look forward to putting them to the test properly when we get the car for a long time period. Pricing for the car is as follows. 

GLC220d Coupe - R1,392,350.00

GLC300d Coupe - R1,447,350.00

Bucket Seat: Honda BR-V

In September this year I attended the official launch of the new Honda BR-V in the Western Cape, it was a fun day out with the team from Honda SA as we got to sample the second generation of this much loved model in the country. The model had grown in statue compared to its previous model but also came loaded with a lot tech and safety features normally reserved for higher end models. At the launch I gravitated to a particular model and drove that for the day, little did I know what an attachment the car would have to me, as after the launch I decided to spend a few extra days in the Cape and Honda SA allowed me to keep a car with me for the duration of my stay, low and behold when I went to the parking lot, I noticed it was the same car I drove that day on the launch. After flying back to Durban and spending a few weeks at home, I get a message that I'd be getting a BR-V to test for the week. Having just driven one a few weeks ago, I thought it would be nice to refresh my memory with one for the review. When the car got delivered, it seemed awfully familiar, low and behold it was the exact same car I drove at the launch, the same car I spent the weekend in whilst in Cape Town and now its followed me to Durban. As funny as that was, its time for the actual review of the car. 

DESIGN

Being a 7-seater MPV, the BR-V has quite an attractive design, with modern lines and sharp features keeping in line with the Honda design language. The overall body shape is indicative to that of most MPVs but has a wider stance than most and also an increased ride height making it seem more of a crossover come SUV rather than an MPV. The lines are clean with a modern twist and the headlights have clear covers exposing the details in the headlamps with the straight styled rear lights similar to the Ballade and new Civic. The additions of the brushed aluminum finish scuff plates in the front, rear and side add to the SUV rugged look on the BR-V, making it look more menacing than it actually is. The new straight grille is pretty eye catching and the way the headlamps expand from it gives the car that classy European look. The car comes with 16-inch bicolour rims which really do make the car stand out. The interior received and overhaul with it getting some nice tech updates include a large touch screen radio which I will touch on later as well as some improved material selections. The design of the interior is roomy and spacious making it a great cabin for large groups, which is why it would be popular with the Uber and Taxi industry. 

PERFORMANCE

The BR-V is powered by that same Honda 1.5-litre naturally aspirated DOHC i-Vtec engine, yes that one. While many have gripes with this motor, claiming its under powered as it produces only 89kW and 145Nm of torque, one would agree that a car which can seat 7-adults would need more oomph but I actually don't have an issue, my issue comes with the gearbox, the automatic CVT transmission does the car no favours and I can't for the life of me figure out why manufacturers are sticking to this technology. It doesn't help with the average fuel consumption because people are ending up dropping gears to get more power which in-turn uses more fuel. I didn't get to sample the manual option at the launch but I'm sure that fairs much better in performance and in average fuel consumption. It does however give a smooth ride but there is no escaping that engine groan in the cabin when you trying to accelerate. 

COMFORT

The BR-V as mentioned, is a 7-seater MPV with the it having a nice spacious cabin comfortable for 5 adults in the front two rows and squeezing in two more in the third row seats. The seats, while not covered in genuine leather are very comfortable and the material feels premium and durable, so no nasty stains will left on these seats. The car has single zone climate control which the controls are located in the center of the console, with button controls. The BR-V comes with a large TFT touch screen infotainment unit which has an easy to interface and has preloaded mobile apps which can be connected via USB cable. The car is packed with safety features which include Honda SENSING Driver Assist technology, this is a broad range of driver assistance features and driver aids to help protect the driver and its occupants. Honda SENSING includes collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, auto high-beam and lane keeping assist. These features are normally found on high-end models from Europe, so to be getting these in a lower end MPV is just brilliant, not forgetting a reverse camera to check your rear while reversing into any spots. 

VERDICT

Overall, while the BR-V might have some quips, it is genuinely a great package put together from the Japanese manufacturer. The car delivers in most aspects and over exceeds in others. The drive was great when in urban areas and given the what the general use of a car like this would be for locals, it does the job without any hassle. While it does feel a bit more premium than most of it's competitors, it does force them to be more proactive in including more safety offerings in their cars. The car looks great and drives well, for the target market this could be the benchmark for the segment and given Honda's great reliability and service, it has the potential to be one of their best selling models in the coming years. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC
Gear Box	CVT
Torque	145Nm
Power	89kW
Fuel economy	6.3L/ 100km/h
Price	R434,900*

*Comfort CVT model