Backing up the sport

Audi has breathed new life into the Q5 range with a mid-cycle update and an all-new coupé-esque Sportback body style

- Nikesh Kooverjee

Price: R960 000

Engine: 2,0-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel

Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch

Power: 140 kW@ 3 800 r/min

Torque: 400 N.m@ 1 750 r/min

0-100 km/h: 8,1 seconds*

Top speed: 220 km/h

Fuel consumption: 6,20 L/100 km*

CO²: 163 g/km

Rivals: BMW X4 xDrive 20d M Sport; Mercedes-Benz GLC 220d coupé 4Matic; Range Rover Evoque D200 R-Dynamic S

+ plush ride; impressive perceived quality, smooth engine

- dated design; pricey options; not too distinctive from the SUV+

In case you hadn't heard, the coupé crossover is still hugely relevant in the global market. This is why the Audi Q5 Sportback has been introduced as an expansion of the body style for the Ingolstadt brand.

With the first-ever Audi Q5 Sportback, consumers shopping in the compact executive SUV segment now have the option of a product with a bit more dynamic presence via the swooping rear roofline. You might be concerned about the loss of interior space with the absence of the traditional SUV shape but Audi assures both boot and utility space remain generous with a claimed figure of 510 and 1 480 litres respectively.