Audi Unveils Gasoline Engine Model of SQ5 | Audi

Audi SQ5

Gasoline Engine Model of the SQ5 Arrives

Audi will exhibit the gasoline engine model of the "SQ5," the highest performance version of the "Q5," at the Detroit Motor Show.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Gasoline Engine Model Finally Added to the First S Model in the Q Lineup

24 Hours of Le MansLaunched in June 2012 to coincide with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, it became the first S model in Audi's SUV lineup, the Q models. The "Audi SQ5" was exclusively the "SQ5 TDI," a diesel engine model, primarily offered in Europe. Now, a gasoline engine model is being added to the "SQ5," making its world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show.

The engine is a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI. Forced induction is achieved by a supercharger with two rotors housed within the 90-degree V-banks.

The "Audi Q5 3.0 TFSI quattro," also introduced in Japan last November,is also equipped with a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing a maximum output of 200 kW (272 ps) at 2,500-4,780 rpm and a peak torque of 400 Nm at 2,500-4,780 rpm. In contrast, the "SQ5" engine generates a maximum output of 260 kW (354 ps) at 6,000-6,500 rpm and a peak torque of 470 Nm at 4,000-4,500 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h.

Compared to the diesel engine model, the "SQ5 TDI," which boasts a maximum output of 230 kW (313 ps) at 3,900-4,500 rpm, a peak torque of 650 Nm at 1,450-2,800 rpm, and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.1 seconds, the differences in the character of the gasoline and diesel engines are clearly evident. Fuel consumption is 7.2 L/100 km for the "SQ5 TDI" and 8.5 L/100 km for the "SQ5" on the NEDC cycle. CO2 emissions are 199 g/km for the "SQ5," compared to 179 g/km for the "SQ5 TDI."

The transmission is an 8-speed Tiptronic dual-clutch automatic. The drivetrain is, of course, the permanent 4WD "quattro."

Other features include the distinctive exterior of the "SQ5," such as the front grille with horizontal bars and the roof spoiler. The interior, upholstered in Nappa leather and Alcantara, along with a chassis that is 30 mm lower than the standard "Q5," a more taut suspension, and 20-inch wheels fitted with 255/45 tires, are finished similarly to the "SQ5 TDI."

Sales in the U.S. market are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2013. As the markets targeted by this "SQ5" include Japan, it is likely to be considered as an option in Japan as well.