Skip advert
Advertisement

Audi SQ5 TDI unveiled

Audi has launched the SQ5 TDI, a 3.0-litre, 309bhp rival to the X3 xDrive35d, and the first S model to be fitted with a diesel engine

Just hours before the company’s latest TDI-driven Le Mans 24 Hour victory, Audi announced that the next S model, the SQ5 will be powered by a 3.0-litre bi-turbo diesel V6 engine – a first for any S model.

Using the same engine as the A6 3.0-litre TDI, and like all high-performance Audis, the SQ5 comes with the all-wheel-drive Quattro system, coupled to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission as standard. The new model will be priced from £45,000, with orders starting in the UK from October. It will be a direct rival to the tri-turbo BMW X3 xDrive35d, which offers a similar amount of performance from a diesel engine.

Advertisement - Article continues below

With 309bhp and 480lb ft of torque, Audi claims that the SQ5 TDI will do 0-62mph in 5.1 seconds, and hit an electronically-limited 155mph top speed – while still managing a combined 39mpg. Because of the SQ5’s high-performance intent, Audi has installed a sound actuator in the exhaust system, which should give the SQ5 a deep, almost V8-like soundtrack.

Audi has lowered the suspension by 30mm, and has fitted 20-inch wheels (21-inch optional) with wide 255/45 tyres.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Honda Civic Type R for £5k off – save 10 per cent on the ultimate hot hatch
Honda Civic Type R deal
News

Honda Civic Type R for £5k off – save 10 per cent on the ultimate hot hatch

The Civic Type R is not long for this world and there are deals to be had on Honda’s pricey but near-perfect hot hatch
26 Jun 2025
Frontline MGA Factory Edition review – a quaint classic with a modern heart
Frontline MGA Factory Edition
Reviews

Frontline MGA Factory Edition review – a quaint classic with a modern heart

The MGB restomod specialist turns its attention to the B’s pretty predecessor. The result is compelling
26 Jun 2025
Can Lotus survive its latest crisis?
Lotus factory
Opinion

Can Lotus survive its latest crisis?

Lotus’s latest troubles are grabbing headlines, but the writing’s been on the wall for some time.
28 Jun 2025