I really enjoy what Audi has managed to achieve with this, its first S model in the Q model line up. I spent some time driving the Audi SQ5 and S3 Sportback in the Eastern Cape at its South African launch.
Normally these little sophisticated soft-roaders look just a little precious, but in S form, the whole plot has more of a purposeful vibe. The biggest visual change is probably the lowering of the suspension by some 30 millimetres, coupled to the use of 20-inch S-Design allows, which gives the Q-car a hunkered-down look. Added to this is subtle S-specific bright-work at various points around the car and a very aggressive-looking S-specific grille treatment.
Powerful diesel engine
It is interesting that Audi has chosen to only offer this car in diesel form, but what a diesel! The twin-turbo three-litre V6 is good for 230 kW and 650 Nm of torque, so the sprint performance figures of this car actually match those of the smaller Audi S3 Sportback . The interior of the SQ5 is class personified, coming standard with MMI 3G navigation and Audis Google Earth navigation package, and a particularly-pleasing flat-bottomed sports steering wheel beautifully trimmed in leather with just the right rim-girth.
Performance and economy
The acceleration on offer from the Audi SQ5 is seamless, its 0-100 km/h time being 5,1 seconds, just one tenth shy of that available with the S3! Fuel consumption is claimed to be 6,8 litres per 100, which will mean real-world consumption of around eight litres per 100, and much better on long cruises.
So, all this and you get a luggage area displacing 1 560 litres. Ideal for the sporting soccer mom who is always in a rush! The price is not inconsiderable, though, at R794 500.
Check out a photo gallery and detailed specifications on the new Audi SQ5 TDi here .
Audi SQ5 TDi Specifications
| Model | Price / Power / Performance |
| Audi SQ5 TDi | R 794 500 / 230 kW / 0-100 = 5.1 seconds |
