New Audi SQ5 3.0 TFSI, a versatile, fast and sporty SUV

New Audi SQ5

The Detroit International Auto Show has been the stage chosen by Audi to present the sportiest version of the Q5. The Audi SQ5 features distinctive elements that highlight its sporty character. It has a bumper with specific air intakes, and at the bottom the diffuser is finished with a honeycomb grille. Another specific S feature is the radiator grille with double aluminium slats and matt grey contrast elements. The S logo with the red rhombus is present on numerous parts of the bodywork.

LED lighting as standard with dynamic indicators.It is also worth highlighting the LED lighting technology as standard for all lighting functions, and the dynamic indicators. At the rear, it has a rear bumper that integrates the twin exhaust outlet and an aluminium finish for the diffuser. The new Audi SQ5 measures 4,671 metres in length, 1,893 metres in width and its height is 1,635 metres, with a wheelbase of 2,824 metres. Its kerb weight is 1,995 kg, 35 kg less than its predecessor, as its bodywork is made from a combination of aluminium and high-strength steels.

Inside, the sporty design seen on the exterior is carried through; one only has to look at it. When opening the doors, we find the door sills illuminated with the S logo. The sport seats upholstered in Alcantara and leather, can also be upholstered in Nappa leather with a diamond pattern and feature a massage function. On the steering wheel, contrast stitching stands out, as it does on the seats. The brushed aluminium inserts are standard, although other options such as wood or carbon fibre can be chosen. The pedals and footrest feature a stainless steel finish.

The cabin is spacious enough to accommodate its five occupants and their luggage without any problem. The boot has a capacity ranging from 500 to 610 litres, expandable up to 1,550 litres with the rear seats fully folded down. Optionally, these seats can feature longitudinal adjustment and backrest recline adjustment.

New Audi SQ5

As a good sporty SUV, the new Audi SQ5 houses under the bonnet the 3.0-litre TFSI V6 engine that produces 354 CV. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. This powerful engine is paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox. The quattro all-wheel drive distributes engine power, in normal driving, favouring the rear axle. When necessary, it sends power to the front axle to improve traction. The optional sport differential, further optimises steering response through active torque distribution to the rear wheels via two superposition stages. The sport differential literally pushes the car through the bend, eliminating understeer. Its management is integrated into the Audi drive select system and is executed through the central control unit.

3.0-litre V6 TFSI engine producing 354 CV.It features CDC adaptive damping (continuous damping control), integrated into the Audi drive select system, allowing the driver to control the engine and suspension characteristics according to different programmes. S air suspension is available as an option. The new electromechanical steering with specific S settings also contributes to the SQ5’s driving dynamics. Dynamic steering is available as an option, which varies the steering ratio depending on speed and steering wheel angle.

The new Audi SQ5 also includes state-of-the-art driver assistance systems. These include the predictive efficiency assistant which helps the driver save fuel, adaptive cruise control (ACC) including the traffic jam assist Audi, the Audi active lane assist which makes it easier to stay in lane, the collision warning, the Audi cross traffic assist rear, the Audi exit warning system, the anti-collision assistant, the Audi turn assist, the Audi pre sense city, the Audi park assist, the camera-based traffic sign recognition system and the downhill control are the assistants that complete the SQ5’s safety and driving aid equipment.

Interior of the New Audi SQ5

MMI Navigation plus system with MMI all-in-touch and 8.3″ screen.In addition to a wide range of safety systems, the new Audi SQ5 features the latest infotainment systems. It includes the MMI Navigation plus system with MMI all-in-touch and 8.3″ screen, the Audi connect, with which the SQ5 connects to the Internet via 4G high-speed connection through the SIM card permanently installed in the vehicle, and the Audi connect SIM (eSIM), which includes a flat-rate data plan. With the Audi connect safety & Service, which includes the security & convenience functionality, the SQ5 also offers Car2X services. Thanks to this, in the event of an accident or breakdown, vehicle occupants receive assistance automatically or at the touch of a button through the emergency call system and online roadside assistance services.

Another feature worth highlighting is the Audi virtual cockpit, which displays all information through sharp graphics on the 12.3″ screen. The different display modes for the driver include a specific S sport mode in which the rev counter takes centre stage. The new Audi SQ5 3.0 TFSI, which is manufactured at the new Audi plant in Mexico, will be available from mid-2017.

Source Audi