While the European get a diesel version of the Audi SQ5 performance crossover, the rest of the world – USA, Canada, China, and… – will get the car with a V6 TFSI petrol engine. Set for debut at the 2013 Detroit Motor Show, the SQ5 TFSI boasts 260 kW (354 hp) and 470 Nm (346.65 lb-ft) of torque.
This top of the line model adds a little excitement to the Q5’s rather bland mix of practicality and quality, with a 0 to 60mph sprint time of 5.3 seconds and a limited top speed of 155 mph.
The engine in this car has a supercharger set at 0.8 bar with two intercoolers. Even though that is not the most efficient way of doing things, the SQ5 still manages to average 8.5 liters of fuel per 100 km in the NEDC (21 US mpg). This equates to CO2 emissions of 199 grams per kilometer (320.26 g/m) in the NEDC.
Compared to the standard Q5, the SQ5 has a sportier setup with lowered suspension and stiffer dampers. 20-inch wheels are fitted with 255/45-series tires; 21-inch wheels are available. The brakes are also uprated to cope with the performance.
Visually, the car features new chrome and gloss black detailing or a more distinctive look. Inside, the instruments feature gray dials and white numerals; the pedals and shift paddles have a shiny aluminum-look finish.
