2014 Audi SQ5 – Audi SQ5 now with gasoline engine and 354 dynamic hp
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| 2014 Audi SQ5 – Frontal View |
The new Audi SQ5 shown at the Detroit Auto Show is the first ever to be powered by a gasoline engine – in this case one producing 260 kW (354 hp) and 470 Nm (346.65 lb-ft) of torque The new top-of-the-line model, which was designed specifically for markets such as the United States, Canada and China, uses a 3.0 TFSI engine with forced induction.
Audi is presenting the new top model of its recently revised Q5 model series — the Audi SQ5 TDI. Boosted by two turbochargers, its 3.0 TDI produces a brawny 230 kW (313 hp) and 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque between 1,450 and 2,800 rpm. The Audi SQ5 TDI will roll into dealerships in the first quarter of 2013 and is the first S model in the history of Audi with a diesel engine.
It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
Audi SQ5 seems to be a classy, practical and desirable family 4×4 SUV, which has comfortably been dominating rivals such as the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 on both European and global sales, the Q5 has also always been a slightly soulless car to drive
The new SQ5 is powered by a free-revving, supercharged, three-liter V6 engine with a displacement of 2,995 cc. Its compressor sits in the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks and is belt-driven by the crankshaft. Two rotors inside the supercharger spin at over 20,000 rpm. The air gap between them is just a few thousandths of a millimeter. The supercharger compresses the intake air to as much as 0.8 bar; two intercoolers then cool it for greater power.
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| 2014 Audi SQ5 – Back view |
And this is it, the SQ5, a 309bhp posh-roader that comes to the UK in early 2013. Based on the facelifted version of Audi’s phenomenally successful Q5, the SQ5 takes the bi-turbo engine straight from the A6 with no extra power or torque liberated on the way.
Well, when you’ve got an engine that delivers 316bhp and 479lb ft of tyre terror straight out of the box, you don’t need to worry too much about tuning. Mash the right pedal at the lights and you’re pushed firmly into a comfort-fit Recaro on the way to 62mph in 5.1sec.
Though that number suggests otherwise, it often feels far quicker than the RS5, which is fitted with Audi’s 135bhp-stronger 4.2-litre petrol V8. And it isn’t only the performance that’s petrol-like.
The Audi SQ5 TDI sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.1 seconds; top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Fuel consumption is on average just 7.2 liters per 100 km (32.67 US mpg). Innovative thermal management, the start-stop system and the regulated oil pump all contribute to this top figure. A fast and smooth-shifting eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive with torque vectoring transfer the power of the brawny V6 diesel to the road (0-62mph: 5.1sec; Top speed: 155mph (limited); Economy: 39.2mpg; CO2: 187g/km; Kerb weight: tbc; Engine: V6, 2967cc, twin-turbodiesel; Installation: Front, longitudinal, 4WD; Power: 309bhp at 3900-4500rpm; Torque: 479lb ft at 1450-2800rpm; Gearbox: 8-spd automatic).
The noise does a pretty good impression too, thanks to a sound actuator in the exhaust back box that gives a real chug-chugga V8 rumble at idle and meaty roar on the road. However, the bi-turbo A6 Avant I left in the airport car park has the same gadget, and I’d swear it sounds even better.
The chassis of the Audi SQ5 lowers the body 30 millimeters (1.18 in). The springs and shock absorbers are more tautly tuned for a sporty and balanced setup. The 20-inch wheels are fitted with 255/45-series tires; 21-inch wheels are available. The brake calipers on the front axle sport the SQ5 badge. The electromechanical steering not only plays a major role in the efficiency of the SQ5, it also provides very precise road feel. Audi also offers the optional dynamic steering with a steplessly variable ratio. Control of it is integrated in the optional Audi drive select system, which allows the driver to switch among several modes in various systems.
The platinum gray radiator grille with its horizontal double bars in aluminum look, the distinctive bumpers and the roof spoiler are particularly eye-catching. V6 T badges adorn the front fenders. The gloss package and exterior mirrors in aluminum look accentuate the windows. In addition, there are two exclusive crystal-effect finishes: Estoril Blue and Panther Black.
Sportiness carries over to the interior. The instruments feature gray dials and white numerals; the pedals and shift paddles have a shiny aluminum-look finish.
The interior is bathed in black, with the headlining optionally available in Moon Silver. The standard power-adjustable sport seats are covered with a combination of Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara, with four different colors of leather optional. The standard inlays are brushed aluminum. Options include Carbon Atlas, Piano finish or layered aluminum and wood in Beaufort black.
The SQ5 is scheduled to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of 2013. The list of standard equipment is extensive. In addition to the aforementioned features, there are also xenon plus headlights with LED daytime driving lights, a stainless-steel loading-sill protector and a driver information system with color display. The luggage compartment offers up to 1,560 liters (59.33 cu ft) of capacity.
Audi can supply this dynamic SUV with an array of optional assistance and infotainment systems. MMI navigation plus and the Bluetooth online car phone provide the Internet services from Audi connect to the vehicle.
The Audi SQ5 has been designed specifically for the following markets: United States, Canada, Russia, China, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and the Ukraine. In Germany and many other European markets, the SQ5 TDI takes its place as the sporty top model in its series.
The Audi SQ5 TDI will roll into dealerships the first quarter of 2013, with prices starting at €58,500. Customers can also choose to have it equipped with Audi##Q##s state-of-the-art assistance and infotainment systems as well as Audi connect services.
