Audi presents the new generation of the SQ5 TDI

In its latest version, the 3.0-litre V6 boasts an output of 336bhp and 700Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the full extent of the powerband from 1,750rpm and 3,250rpm can be easily utilised. Zero to 100km/h arrives in 5.1 seconds and top speed is 250km/h.

Additionally, the SQ5's V6 engine has received some internal revisions. Its pistons are no longer made of aluminium but of forged steel. Due to the higher strength, they do not incur a weight penalty compared with the aluminium pistons. A stepped recess in the piston makes combustion faster and more efficient.

The intercooler has been changed from an air-to-air cooler in the bumper to an indirect air-to-water cooler in the inside V of the engine. The shortened intake air path assists the build up of boost pressure quickly.

The turbocharger now features a smaller and lighter compressor wheel that spools up faster. Also, the exhaust manifold benefits from improved insulation, which allows the exhaust gas to reach optimum temperature more quickly after a cold start.

The new SQ5 is now available with a 48V Mild Hybrid System (MHEV) that integrates a Belt Alternator Starter (BAS), a lithium-ion battery providing buffer storage, and a 48V/12V voltage converter.

When the car decelerates, the MHEV system recovers up to 8kW of power, allowing the SQ5 to coast up to 40 seconds with the engine switched off - after which time the BAS will restart the engine.

The second technology component is the Electric Powered Compressor (EPC), which helps out whenever the exhaust gas flow provides too little energy to drive the turbocharger. A compact electric motor, which also uses the compact 48V system, accelerates the compressor wheel of the EPC to 65,000rpm in roughly 300 milliseconds.

In normal driving conditions, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system distributes torque between the front and rear axle in a 40:60 ratio. In the event of slip, most of the drive torque goes to the axle with the better traction. Up to 70% can flow to the front wheels and a maximum of 85% to the rear wheels. 

A rear sports differential actively controls the distribution of torque between the wheels when the driver more aggressively. It sends more torque to the rear wheel on the outside of the curve that has better grip - pressing the car into the curve and reducing understeer considerably, in turn further improving driving dynamics.

The suspension of the Audi SQ5 TDI is well set up with performance driving in mind, with the S sport suspension with damper control allowing the SQ5 to ride 30mm lower than the Q5. However, the suspension is still able to allow the SQ5 to ride comfortably as the dampers can be softened so as to provide a more comfortable ride.

The controlled dampers are integrated into the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. It allows the driver to select one of six drive modes, enabling the SQ5 to be in the most suitable mode for the given road conditions.

The SQ5 TDI comes with 20-inch aluminium wheels as standard, with 21-inch wheels available as an option. The front six-piston calipers bite onto discs measuring 375mm, and black calipers with Audi's S logo are available as an option.

Audi includes LED headlights as standard, with Matrix LED headlights with automatic high beam and dynamic turn signals as an upgrade. At the rear, a matte aluminium strip is integrated in the lower bumpers, below which are the diffuser insert and four chromium-plated oval tailpipe trims.

The SQ5 TDI features a black or dark grey interior with illuminated aluminium door sill trims bearing S logos. The electrically adjustable sport seats featuring embossed S logos are available in a choice of three upholstery choices, which are leather, a mix of leather and Dinamica, and luxurious Nappa leather, with a seat massage function and seat ventilation available as options too.

The infotainment system, or MMI touch display in Audi speak, has a 10.1-inch touchscreen. A natural language voice control system and the multifunction steering wheel are available as additional control levels. A 12.3-inch screen serves as the gauge cluster, with a head-up display as an option.

The SQ5 also comes with a host of advanced safety systems like turn assist, collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise assist. All these systems help a driver to stay safer on the road and improve overall safety for the SQ5 and other cars around it.