BMW IX5
The Electric Heart of a New X5 Generation
The fifth-generation BMW X5 marks a bold evolution for the model that created the luxury Sports Activity Vehicle segment. While it offers multiple powertrains, the spotlight rightly falls on the BMW iX5, the first fully battery-electric X5, integrating Neue Klasse innovations with the commanding presence and dynamic character that have defined the nameplate since 1999.
At the heart of the iX5 lies the sixth generation of BMW’s eDrive technology. The range-topping iX5 60 xDrive achieves an impressive range of up to 845 km, made possible by advanced cylindrical cells measuring 120 mm in height, paired with an 800 V electrical architecture. This enables ultra-fast charging, bidirectional energy transfer for vehicle-to-grid or vehicle-to-home applications, and exceptional efficiency ideally suited to South Africa’s mix of long-distance driving and spirited mountain climbs.
The iX5 retains the X5’s renowned driving dynamics with near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, standard adaptive suspension, and optional Adaptive Chassis Control Professional with roll stabilisation. These deliver the engaging handling and refined ride comfort expected of a flagship SAV. BMW’s “Heart of Joy” control system further enhances the experience with features like ultra-smooth Soft-Stop braking.
Visually, the iX5 impresses with its monolithic Neue Klasse design: a powerful front end with vertical BMW kidney Iconic Glow, striking “double-X” light signatures, innovative flush BMW Winglet door handles, and options up to 23″ wheels.
Inside, the redesigned cabin offers exceptional material quality, including unique slate decorative surfaces, a panoramic iDrive display, full-width BMW Panoramic Vision, and an intuitive Operating System X for a serene, tech-forward ambience.
In its pure-electric form, the new X5 reinforces its position as a leader in the premium SAV segment.Production of the iX5 begins at BMW’s Spartanburg plant this month, with South African availability expected in early 2027.
RS E-TRON GT PERFORMANCE
Audi’s Electric Apex
Audi South Africa has raised the bar for high-performance motoring with the launch of the RS e-tron GT performance, the most powerful production Audi ever built. As the brand’s first fully electric RS model, this flagship Gran Turismo fuses blistering performance, quattro poise, and everyday refinement in a package that feels both futuristic and deeply rooted in Audi Sport’s heritage.
At its heart lies a formidable powertrain delivering 550 kW continuously, surging to 680 kW in Launch Control mode. This propels the RS e-tron GT performance from 0-100 km/h in a savage 2.5 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. Torque is intelligently distributed via the quattro system (409 Nm front, 590 Nm rear), while a 105 kWh (97 kWh net) battery ensures a WLTP range of 533–592 km. An advanced thermal management system keeps performance repeatable, whether carving through the Franschhoek Pass or cruising the N1.
New RS-specific features elevate the experience further. RS Performance mode orchestrates powertrain, suspension, torque vectoring, and aerodynamics for supreme composure under sustained loads. Push-to-Pass adds an instant 70 kW boost for ten seconds, turning overtakes into pure theatre. Adaptive air suspension with two-chamber, two-valve dampers offers effortless adjustability, while 21″ wheels and ceramic brakes deliver confidence-inspiring stopping power.
Visually, the car is unmistakably RS, with bold options including Matte Carbon Camouflage, gloss carbon packs, and striking new colours like Arkona White and Bedford Green. Inside, Sport Seats Pro, fine Nappa leather, illuminated RS emblems, and the Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system create a cockpit worthy of the flagship.
Priced at R 4,906,100, the RS e-tron GT performance proves that electric propulsion need not compromise thrill or grand touring capability. In South Africa’s diverse driving landscape, it stands as a new pinnacle of Audi’s performance story.
BENTLEY TORCAL
Crewe’s Electric Dawn
As the British luxury marque prepares to launch its inaugural fully electric vehicle, Bentley Motors has named its latest model line the Torcal, marking a historic milestone. Scheduled for a global reveal in London on 23 September 2026, the Torcal will join the Continental GT, Flying Spur, and Bentayga as the fourth distinct model line. It is set to usher in a new era of electrified luxury while continuing to honour the brand’s 107-year legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and effortless performance.
The name Torcal is inspired by El Torcal de Antequera, a striking limestone landscape in Andalusia, Spain, which evokes evolution and a sense of timeless natural beauty. The name is also a nod to its Latin origin “torquere” (to twist), from which the word “torque” is derived – an appropriate designation considering the instantaneous torque of electric vehicles. According to Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO of Bentley, this model seeks to establish new standards in performance, comfort, and handcrafted luxury, with the potential to stand out as the most thoroughly considered Bentley created to date.
Expected to ride on the Volkswagen Group’s advanced Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, the Torcal is anticipated to deliver prodigious power. Rumours suggest well over 1,000 horsepower (745 kW), while targeting a real-world range exceeding 500 km, and ultra-fast charging enabled by an expected 800 V electrical architecture.
In keeping with the brand’s storied tradition, the Torcal will merge whisper-quiet, immediate electric power with lavish cabins showcasing the most exquisite natural materials, painstaking British artistry, and the cutting-edge digital integration expected by Bentley’s discerning clientele. Positioned as an SUV, it is poised to challenge the Rolls-Royce Cullinan within the ultra-luxury tier.
Bentley’s core identity is set to be further enhanced by its first battery-electric vehicle from Crewe. We cannot wait!
Report by WILHELM LOOTS
