Diesel engine car sales in Europe continue to fall, however, Audi has not given up on this type of engine. Proving it is the Audi SQ5 TDI , a model that the four-ring brand will take to the Geneva Motor Show.
As with the first generation, under the hood of the SQ5 TDI we find a 3.0 V6 engine. However, contrary to what happened with the first generation, this engine is now associated with a mild-hybrid system inherited from the SQ7 TDI, courtesy of a parallel 48 V electrical system.
The SQ5 TDI's mild-hybrid system thus allows the use of an electric compressor — it is no longer connected to the crankshaft of the combustion engine. This compressor is powered by a 7 kW electric motor (powered by the 48 V electrical system) and aims to reduce turbo lag, being able to produce a pressure of 1.4 bar.
Audi SQ5 TDI numbers
The V6 that the SQ5 TDI relies on it delivers a total of 347 hp and an impressive 700 Nm of torque . The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is associated with this engine, which transmits the 347 hp of power to the four wheels through the quattro system.
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Equipped with a sports differential, the Audi SQ5 TDI normally distributes power in a 40:60 ratio between the front and rear axle.
In terms of performances, the SQ5 TDI is able to deliver from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1s , reaching a maximum speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Also thanks to the mild-hybrid system, Audi announces fuel consumption between 6.6 and 6.8 l/100 km and CO2 emissions between 172 and 177 g/km (NEDC2).
Aesthetically, the differences between the SQ5 TDI and the rest of the Q5 are discreet, highlighting the 20” wheels (they can be 21” as an option), the specific bumpers, the grille and the rear diffuser. Inside, we find seats in Alcantara and leather, a leather-covered steering wheel and several aluminum details.
The new Audi SQ5 TDI features sports seats in Alcantara and leather, steel pedals and aluminum steering wheel shift paddles.
Expected to arrive in the summer , when it hits the market the SQ5 TDI will probably be the only sporty version of the Q5 available (the petrol SQ5 saw sales suspended last year, it's not yet known when or if it will return). For now, the prices of the German SUV for Portugal are not known.
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