The new Audi SQ5 TDI

The Audi SQ5 TDI, which will appear on streets in the first quarter of 2013 at a price of 58,500 euros, is the new top model of the Q5 model series and is also the first S model with a diesel engine in the history of Audi. The 3.0 TDI, charged by two turbochargers, produces no less than 230 kW (313 hp) in power and delivers an impressive 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque between 1,450 and 2,800 rpm.

The V6 diesel, which generates power from 2,967 cc displacement, is designed as a twin-turbo unit; a flap joins the two turbochargers arranged in series. The cooling of the cylinder heads, control times and strokes of the intake camshafts, the pistons, their spray oil cooling and the piston rods have been adapted to the high-performance concept. The common rail system builds a pressure of up to 2,000 bar and can execute up to eight partial injections into the cylinders. A sound actuator in the exhaust system gives the twin-turbo-V6 a deep sonorous sound.

The Audi SQ5 TDI handles the sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.1 seconds, and its top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Its combined fuel consumption is only 6.8 liters per 100 km (32.67 US mpg) on average – a value that is also enabled by contributions from the thermal management, energy recovery and start-stop systems as well as the regulated oil pump. An eight-speed tiptronic that shifts quickly and smoothly and the quattro permanent four-wheel drive transfer the engine’s power to the road.

The stiff S sport suspension lowers the body by 30 mm (1.18 in), and size 255/45 tires are mounted to the 20-inch wheels in five parallel spoke design. Audi can also deliver 21-inch diameter wheels and size 255/40 tires as an option. The black brake calipers on the front wheels are decorated with S badges. The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard.

Among the special design details, the platinum gray single-frame radiator grille with its galvanized dual struts in aluminum look, the roof spoiler and modified bumpers are especially eye-catching.

The exterior mirror housings are designed in an aluminum look; xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights are included as a standard feature, and the exhaust system dominates at the rear with four elliptical tailpipes. Audi also offers the optional crystal effect exterior colors Estoril Blue and Panther Black on the new top model.

The interior is designed in black, and a silver headlining is optional. The electrically adjustable sport seats are upholstered in Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara, which are available in three colors. Trim panels consist of brushed aluminum, or CFRP, piano finish black or aluminum beaufort as options.

The scales of the instruments are gray, and their needles are white; the pedals and shift paddles glisten in an aluminum look. Features such as the S gear shift knob, S badges on the door sill trims, on the start button and on the specially shaped steering wheel, the S welcome screen and the light package accentuate the interior with special highlights.

The equipment and data specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.