It’s been a while since I’ve driven a Volkswagen Group TDI, and I’ve got to admit, there’s something refreshing about getting behind the wheel of one again.
The 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback TDI marks my first test drive of a diesel from this brand in over four years.
The last time I discussed a diesel vehicle in depth, it was amidst the fallout from the infamous Dieselgate scandal, which rocked the automotive world in 2015.
Back then, the implications of the diesel deception were vast, as Volkswagen’s systematic cheating on emissions tests had serious consequences for the industry and the environment.
I, like many, initially thought the outrage was overblown.
Diesel cars, especially in a country like South Africa with its long distances, seemed like a sensible choice.
But as the full extent of the scandal unfolded—executives resigning, billions in fines, and even criminal convictions—it was hard to ignore how deceitful the situation had been.
Fast forward to today, and I’m test driving a diesel-powered SUV that challenges the stigma around the technology. So, how does it perform?
The Audi Q5 Sportback TDI: A Quiet Diesel Revolution
Let’s talk about the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback TDI.
This is an SUV that strikes a balance between performance and practicality, wrapped in a sleek design.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that incorporates cutting-edge technology.
Audi has fitted the engine with a twin-dosing Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that reduces NOx emissions by up to 80%.
Not just marketing talk—this tech has been independently tested and verified, making the Q5 Sportback TDI a more eco-friendly option than its predecessors.
Despite the diesel reputation, this engine is remarkably quiet.
At no point did I find myself wondering if I was driving a petrol-powered vehicle.
It’s refined and smooth, delivering 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque.
Acceleration is effortless, with 0-100 km/h coming in at a swift 8.2 seconds.
This, paired with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, provides a ride that’s both efficient and dynamic.
Impressive Fuel Economy for Long Drives
One of the standout features of the 2025 Q5 Sportback TDI is its fuel efficiency.
Audi claims a consumption rate of 6.2 l/100 km, but during my time with the car, I recorded an impressive 7.2 l/100 km.
That’s still excellent fuel economy, giving you a real-world range of almost 1,000 km on a full tank.
This makes long drives much less stressful, reducing the need for frequent refueling stops—a handy feature for those who love to adventure.
During my test drive, I took the Q5 Sportback for a peninsula cruise, where I strapped a surfboard to the roof and another inside the cabin.
The SUV handled urban roads and winding mountain passes with ease, showing off its adaptive suspension system.
Comfort mode provided a smooth ride, while Dynamic mode firmed up the chassis for better handling in more spirited driving.
The minimal body roll and stable high-speed performance made this a very enjoyable vehicle to drive.
Cabin Luxury and Tech Integration
Inside the cabin, the Audi Q5 Sportback impresses with its luxury and user-friendly tech.
The MMI touch interface is intuitive, featuring a 10.1-inch central display that blends seamlessly into the dashboard.
Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus is a fantastic addition, offering crisp graphics and an immersive experience.
The materials used throughout the cabin, such as leather, gloss black plastic, and aluminum, exude understated luxury, and there’s plenty of space, even with the sloping roofline.
For practicality, the Q5 Sportback offers 510 litres of cargo space, which is more than enough for everyday use and adventure gear.
In fact, I was able to fit a six-foot surfboard inside the cabin with minimal adjustment.
The cabin is comfortable for passengers, even those who are over six feet tall, despite the roofline affecting rear headroom slightly.
Safety Features and Driving Assistance
As for safety, the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback comes equipped with standard features like blindspot monitoring and front collision warning.
On top of that, it offers additional features like lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.
These make it an excellent vehicle for everyday commuting, offering a stress-free driving experience.
While the tech suite in my test car was fairly minimal, the available features would certainly make any drive more convenient and safer.
Final Thoughts on the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback TDI
After spending significant time in the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback TDI, it’s clear that this is a well-rounded, high-performing SUV.
It may not completely erase the shadow of Dieselgate, but it does show that diesel technology still has a place in premium vehicles.
With its impressive fuel efficiency, refined performance, and advanced emissions control, the Q5 Sportback TDI proves that diesel can still be a viable option, especially for those who value long-range efficiency and performance.
While it may not rehabilitate diesel’s global reputation entirely, the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback TDI makes a compelling case for the future of diesel in South Africa and beyond.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel
- Power: 140 kW @ 3,800 rpm, 400 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
- Performance: 0-100 km/h in 8.2 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 6.2 l/100 km (claimed), 7.2 l/100 km (tested)
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
- Price: From R1,087,200
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn