Audi SQ5 TDI plus – a 27 hp, 50 Nm shot in the arm

The Audi SQ5 TDI, the most powerful diesel Q5, isn’t exactly short of grunt at 313 hp and 650 Nm. But Ingolstadt has seen fit to introduce an even burlier version of the SUV called SQ5 TDI plus.

The SQ5 TDI plus will arrive at German dealerships next month with 340 hp and a mighty 700 Nm of torque, which is a substantial 27 hp and 50 Nm shot in the arm thanks to increased injection pressure. The 3.0 litre biturbo V6 TDI powers this Q5 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. In the NEDC, fuel consumption is a decent 6.6 liters per 100 km.

Like all S models, this one delivers power to the road via Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. For the first time in the Q5 family, a sport differential at the rear axle actively shuffles drive between the wheels, which are gloss black 21-inch cast aluminium items in Audi Sport five twin-spoke design, wrapped with 255/40 tyres.

Audi has extended the standard black gloss package to include the exterior mirror housing, door handles, the roof edge spoiler and the diffuser. A further visual customisation feature are two clasps that join the four exhaust tailpipes in pairs. Inside, the sliding rear seat bench increases variability and enlarges the boot, if necessary. The armrests in the door trims are upholstered in leather, while Nappa leather seat covers feature a diamond pattern in silver.

The Macaw Blue colour here is a paid option, limited to 100 units of the SQ5 TDI plus. Cars with this hue also get matching stitching on the seats, steering wheel, gear gaiter and floor mats. The Audi SQ5 TDI plus is priced at €67,700 (RM325,044) in its home market.

Audi also makes a petrol version of the SQ5. That one has a 3.0 TFSI V6 engine with 354 hp and 470 Nm, good for 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds.

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