Audi Q5
The second generation of the popular Audi Q5 is here. While borrowing a lot of design cues from its big brother, the Q7, it doesn’t seem to be that far off from the model it replaces.
The design makes this SUV 90 kgs lighter than before despite its dimensions increasing (luggage space ranges between 550 and 610 dm3 with a utility space of 1 550 dm3). The redesign also gives it a Cd of 0,30 meaning it is also impressively aerodynamic.
The option list has also been lengthened. The new Q5 is now available with air suspension, Matrix LED headlamps, dynamic steering and 12,3-inch virtual cockpit among other things.
Engine options will feature four TDIs and one TFSI. the 2,0-litre TDI power outputs will range from 110 kW to 140 kW, while the turbocharged 3,0-litre V6 will deliver 210 kW and 620 N.m of torque. The 2,0-litre TFSI will deliver 185 kW.
Entry level modes will be front-wheel drive with a six-speed manual transmission. Higher trims will feature the quattro system with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Quattro models with air suspension will come with seven different driver modes.
International markets will get the Q5 2,0 TDI 120 kW quattro S tronic for €45 100 (R698 150).
RS3 Sedan
This model has been spotted several times during its testing stages and we already know quite a bit about it, but let’s recap anyways.
The iconic turbocharged 2,5-litre five-cylinder engine remains but it’s been boosted to 294 kW and 480 N.m of torque, just like the one found in the soon to arrive TT RS and is expected to be used in the facelifted RS3 Sportback
0-100 km/h takes 4,1 seconds and its top speed has been limited to 280 km/h.
Other than this, it’s pretty much loaded with the same kit found on the current RS3 Sportback.
Chinese and American markets will receive the RS3 Sedan first, in the middle of next year.
RS3 LMS
This one was a surprise. the RS3 LMS is a TCR racecar for private use and, despite its noticeable and dramatic exterior trim, it’s not faster than the standard RS3 (in a straight line at least).
It will make use of the turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder engine (presumably the EA888) which will produce 243 kW to give it a 0-100 km/h time of 4,5 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h. Power is delivered through a six-speed sequential manual transmission.
Customers will receive this car by then end of the year after they fork out €129 000 (R2 000 000).
