Audi has made the already sporty SQ5 TDI sports utility vehicle into a bit of a tarmac-destroying monster by giving it the ‘S’ treatment.
As befitting its ‘plus’ name, torque and power has been increased by 27PS and 50Nm, respectively, taking the 3.0-litre V6 BiTDI to 335bhp (340PS) and 516lb/ft (700Nm). 0-62mph takes a mere 5.1 seconds and the top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.
Even with that jump in performance, Audi claims the SQ5 TDI plus can achieve as much as 42.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 174g/km, putting it up there with the highly capable triple-turbo BMW X5 M50d.
All of the many horses are sent to all four wheels via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Meanwhile a sports differential on the rear axle ─ a first for the Q5 range ─ helps distribute power as necessary.
External enhancements help ensure the world knows this is no ordinary SQ5 TDI. It has 21-inch alloy Audi Sport alloys with a five-twin-spoke design in gloss black in addition to gloss black exterior mirrors, door handles, roof edge spoiler and a rear diffuser for a stealthy look.
It also has two clasps that join the four exhaust tailpipes together, while the interior gains fine Nappa leather with diamond stitching on the sports seats and a sliding rear bench seat for increasing boot space as and when needed.
An option to have a Macaw blue crystal-effect paintjob is available but only for the first 100 cars so you will have to strike quickly.
No word on a price just yet, but we know it will be available for ordering ‘later this year’. The regular SQ5 TDI costs from £44,785 so expect to pay around £50,000.
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