#RideRoundup: All-new Audi Q5, new S-Class, Mazda CX-8, Jaguar XJ

All-new Audi Q5

Audi has introduced its all-new Audi Q5. The B-segment SUV combines the sportiness of an Audi sedan with a multifaceted character and a flexible interior.

The new car is launching in South Africa with two engine variants: one TDI engine and one TFSI. They have added up to 20 kW of power, with fuel consumption, however, being significantly reduced.

The four-cylinder TDI has a displacement of 1,968cc and is available with an output of 140kW and 400Nm of torque available between 1,750 and 3,000rpm. It will take 7.9 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and corresponds to a top speed of 218km/h. It has claimed combined consumption of 4.9 litres per 100km and a combined CO2 emissions figure of 129g/km.

The further developed 2.0 TFSI has an output of 185kW and 370Nm of torque and consumes 6.8 litres of fuel per 100km, which equates to 154 grams of CO2 per km. The sprint from 0-100km/h will take 6.3 seconds.

The following specs are standard on the 2.0T FSI 185kW and 2.0 TDI 140kW:

• 17-inch wheels
• Ambient lighting package (30 colours)
• Audi drive select
• Audi sound system
• Bluetooth interface
• Collapsible spare wheel
• Cruise control
• Driver information system
• Dynamic suspension
• AUX-IN and USB
• Electromechanical power steering
• Energy recovery
• Indirect tire pressure monitoring system
• Leather multifunction plus steering wheel
• Leather/artificial leather combination
• LED rear lights
• Quattro with ultra technology
• Rear parking aid
• Side airbags at front and head airbag system
• Stainless steel loading edge protection
• Three-zone automatic air conditioning
• Start / Stop (petrol engines!)
• Xenon headlights

New Mercedez-Benz S-Class

The fourth quarter 2017 will see the new S-Class enter the local market with comprehensive new features.

Three new engines have their debut in the new S-Class: diesel and petrol variants of 6-cylinder in-line engines and a new V8 biturbo petrol engine. In addition, the car manufacturer plans a plug-in hybrid with an electric range of about 50 kilometres.

Active distance control 'distronic' and active steering assist now provide even more support for the driver to keep a safe distance and steer. The speed is adjusted automatically ahead of bends, junctions, or roundabouts.

Voice commands can be used to control the air conditioning and seat heating/ventilation, interior lighting (ambience lighting, reading lights, lighting in the rear), fragrance/ionisation, seat massage function and head-up display. Depending on language version and vehicle equipment, up to 450 individual voice commands are now possible.

Wellness while driving is also on the horizon. 'Energising' comfort control will be launched onto the market as a world first in September 2017: this optional feature links various comfort systems in the vehicle together. It systematically uses the functions of the climate control system (including fragrance) and the seats (heater, ventilation, massage), the wall heating as well as lighting and musical atmospheres, and enables a specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the driver.

Mazda CX-8 Crossover SUV

Mazda has revealed the exterior of its upcoming six to seven crossover SUV, Mazda CX-8 which will serve as the flagship of the brand's SUV lineup. The company's first new-generation model to feature three rows of seating is scheduled to go on sale in Japan before the end of the year.

It's described as a new kind of crossover SUV for people who both appreciate quality and need to seat more than five. As the flagship SUV in the market, the focus was on creating a look of class and quality, and every interior part was chosen in careful consideration of colour and material.

The car will be available in Japan this year. Global roll-out has not been confirmed.

Jaguar XJ luxury sports sedan

Jaguar has announced a range of enhancements to its XJ luxury sports sedan. The 2018 model year (2018MY) updates include the introduction of the XJR575 performance flagship model, a host of technology upgrades, and the addition of the latest intelligent safety features.

It joins the lineup alongside XJ Luxury, Premium Luxury, Portfolio, R-Sport and top-of-the-range Autobiography.

The new XJR575 is the most dynamic derivative in the lineup and delivers 423kW and 700Nm of torque for effortless acceleration and refinement. The 18kW uplift in power is delivered by Jaguar Land Rover’s 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine and powers the luxury sports sedan from 0-100km/h in 4.4 seconds and to a top speed of 300km/h.

For 2018MY the XJ features a number of technology upgrades which enhance connectivity with 4G Wi-Fi capability. Bold exterior design includes full LED headlights and unique double ‘J-Blade signature’ daytime running lights.

The car goes on sale in South Africa late 2017.