By Mxolisi Mhlongo
The crossover SUV market is doing really well in South Africa and almost every manufacturer has one. We have driven both the Mercedes Benz GLC and AUDI Q5. On this review, we look at the differences between the two.
What is a crossover SUV?
Crossover SUV’s are a special breed of cars between station wagons and SUV’s. They are built on a car platform with a high ground clearance just like an SUV but it does not have the same off-road capabilities as an SUV.
The Mercedes GLC
You can pretty much think of this car as a C-class on stilts. The GLC model is based on the C-class and Mercedes are hoping to take over the premium crossover SUV market. In fact, if you spend a lot of time in this car you get used to the luxury and you will find it difficult to get into your home. It is a bit expensive than most rivals but you do get a lot of kits standard.
The Audi Q5
After 8 years running Audi has finally decided to redesign this car. The Q5 is moderately different from its predecessor. However, the interior is totally different and the technology is impressive. We had an opportunity to drive this car to Northern KZN and we were totally impressed with its performance. The fuel consumption on its 2.0 Quattro engine was incredible, we drove 650 KM without having to refuel and that’s pretty impressive for a petrol engine.
So why would an Afropolitan buy any of these premium SUV’s?
To be honest with you both cars are expensive but you do pay for what you get.
Leisure: Both cars are the perfect crossover SUV’s which makes them great family cars for single mothers. So you can basically have a comfortable trip with the kids and still have space for holiday accessories or luggage.
Daily use: Fuel consumption is not an issue on both vehicles if you’ll choose the 2.0 Quattro engine on the Q5 and the GLC 250d 2.0L on the GLC.
Verdict:
With our current economic state, we buy cars based on practicality and performance but that doesn’t mean the cars we buy shouldn’t look presentable. It’s a very close call between these two with both the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes GLC trading blows when it comes to cabin quality, style, comfort and running costs.
FACT SHEET AS TESTED
Audi Q5:
The Audi Q5 comes in different trim levels. There is a base spec and a Sports spec, with the flagship trim being the S Line Sport. The following features are standard on the 2.0T FSI and 2.0 TDI.
2.0 TDI Quattro S Tronic R698 000
2.0 TDI Quattro S Tronic Sport R748 000
2.0 TFSI Quattro S Tronic R747 500
2.0 TFSI Quattro S Tronic Sport R797 500
SQ5 3.0 TFSI Quattro Tiptronic R1 044 000
Mercedes GLC
Mercedes SA released pricing for the GLC in 2015 and it remains on par with the Q5
GLC 220 d 4MATIC, turbo diesel R602 26
GLC 250 d 4MATIC, turbo diesel R622 260
GLC 250 4MATIC, turbo petrol R609 620
GLC 300 4MATIC, turbo petrol R660 748
