Audi has announced its first diesel-powered S model of the brand with the addition of the SQ5 TDI to the 2013 Q5 range.
Due to make its official début at the circuit of Le Mans this weekend, the SQ5 TDI uses the company’s 3.0 TDI biturbo engine, developing a healthy 230 kW (313 hp) and 650 Nm (479 lb/ft) of torque, which is transferred to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox. Performance is brisk, with 100 km/h (62 mph) appearing in just 5.1 seconds and a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), while fuel consumption – which is aided by the Q5’s start-stop system – averages just 7.2 litres every 100 kilometres.
Emphasising the compact SUV’s sporty theme is the 30 mm reduction in ride height, 20-inch alloy wheels (or optional 21-inchers), black brake calipers, modified bumpers, roof spoiler, S badging, platinum grey single-frame grille with aluminium-look struts, roof bars and exterior mirrors.
Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to power-adjustable sport seats in Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara, brushed aluminum inserts, a specially-shaped steering wheel (with aluminium-look flappy paddles) and S door sill trims, dials, badges and gear knob. Items on the options list include a lunar silver headlining and trim panels in Carbon Atlas, Piano finish or aluminium/wood.
The SQ5 TDI will be available in either Estoril Blue or Panther Black when it hits showrooms early next year 2013, and starts at €58,500. Notable options include Audi’s assistance and infotainment systems as well as the drive select system with variable ratio dynamic steering.
[Source: Audi]