Super SUV Audi gets UK go-ahead

Story: Robin | Posted 19 June 2012 | In Car News, Cars, News

Super SUV: The 313PS Audi SQ5 is first S model to use TDI power and will cost £45,000 when it goes on sale next year

Author:

ROBIN ROBERTS

The new road-going Audi SQ5 TDI has been unveiled.

The new super-SUV will be notable as the first TDI-powered ‘S’ model in the history of the brand and will offer 313PS and 39mpg capability. It is scheduled to open for UK order in October priced at around £45,000 ahead of first deliveries next spring.

The 3.0-litre BiTDI engine powering the new SQ5 TDI produces a brawny 313PS and 650 Nm of torque between 1,450 and 2,800 rpm. Channelled through an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and via quattro all-wheel-drive it is good for a 0-62mph time of just 5.1 seconds and a governed 155mph top speed, and sounds every inch an ‘S’ model as it punches at the horizon thanks to a specially developed sound actuator in the exhaust system which enriches the exhaust note.

With the help of innovative thermal management, the engine start-stop system and a regulated oil pump, economy remains firmly in TDI territory, with up to 39.2mpg possible according to the combined cycle test.

It is distinguished from its stablemates by its lower ride height and