Audi lets 309bhp Q5 off the leash 15 | 06 | 2012
HOURS BEFORE AUDI and Scot Allan McNish embarked on their bid to win the Le Mans 24-Hours race with the innovative diesel-hybrid e-tron quattro, it revealed its first S model equipped with a diesel engine: the Audi SQ5 TDI (see more official photos of new Audi SQ5 TDI).
The flagship model in the Ingolstadt manufacturer's revised Q5 range, the SQ5 TDI is powered by a 2976cc, twin-turbo V6 which pumps out 309bhp.
Equipped with permanent quattro four-wheel-drive, power is delivered via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission.
And it's no slouch. It'll hit 62mph from standstill in 5.1sec and carry on to an electronically restricted top speed of 155mph. Plus it's capable of 39mpg, according to Audi.
In addition to a number of engine components — including cylinder heads, intake cam shafts, pistons and piston pins — being altered to optimise performance, Audi boffins have also 'modulated and enhanced' the sound of the engine by means of a sound actuator in the exhaust system.
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The SQ5 TDI also sits 30mm lower to the road, compared to the standard Q5, thanks to its sports suspension. And while 21in alloys are an option, it sits, as standard, on 20in wheels.
Externally there are a significant number of cosmetic tweaks, including black brake calipers sporting 'S' badges on the front axle. There's also a new platinum grey single-frame grille with galvanised double bars in an aluminium-look finish, a roof spoiler, modified bumpers and aluminium-look mirror frames.
And the SQ5 TDI is offered in two colourways: crystal-effect blue or black paint.
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Inside the cabin there's black trim with power-adjustable sport seats in Nappa leather and Alcantara. The leather upholstery is available in a choice of four colours as an option.
Other notable points inside include the S gear lever knob, S badges on the door sill trims, the start button and a specially shaped steering wheel. And while the instrument dials are grey and include a 3D-design S badge and white needles, the pedals and gear shift paddles have an aluminium-look finish.
Though the car will go on sale in the first quarter of 2013 — order books will open in October — the UK price has yet to be confirmed. Audi insiders though hint that it will be priced at around £45,000.
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Jim McGill