Audi SQ5 354PS V6 1

Latest Audi SQ5 Joins the UK Range – 0-62 mph in 5.4 secs

The new Audi SQ5 with 354 PS V6 TFSi is a class apart from other mere mortals. It has a 3.0 litre petrol engine. A new twin-scroll turbocharger has replaced the supercharger. It is 35 kg lighter than its predecessor, including 14 kg from the engine alone. It can perform 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds. This is just the start.

New engine and handling technology

Audi have developed an engine technology that they call the ‘B-cycle’ process. The important aspect for us is it means this Audi SQ5 can provide up to 34 mpg. Not bad for a 3.0 litre petrol SUV. If you were worried this would mean compromises, then think again. That turbocharger isn’t there just to make the SQ5 sound nice. This car can still give you a 354 PS power peak and 500 Nm of torque. It’s a car you are really going to want to put through its paces. Not only will it let you, you’ll enjoy it too.

The handling is intriguing. Though the Audi SQ5 is 4 wheel drive, it varies how this is distributed, depending on the driving situation. The rear axles dominate slightly during normal driving. However, the car will automatically use whichever axles have the best traction. The inside wheels will also break slightly in order to take corners better at speed. As you would expect, you can select further customisable options from the menu screen. Like I said, you are going to enjoy it, whatever your driving conditions.

Audi SQ5 side view in Azores green metallic

Enticing enhancements

There is an enticing list of enhancements that come as standard on this Audi SQ5. These include electric seats, fine Nappa leather, 20 inch alloy wheels, MMI (Multi Media Interface) Navigation Plus and Audi Connect. It’s Audi Connect, Audi’s infotainment system, that provides the most potential for the future. Among the impressive features of Audi Connect is the ability check for car parking spaces, search for the cheapest fuel prices near you and the option to turn your car into a wi-fi hotspot for up to eight devices. This should guarantee happy (quiet) passengers and therefore a happy driver.

An exciting option is a head-up display, which projects information onto the windscreen. The most relevant use for this is the driver assistance system. Numbers and symbols are displayed so they can be understood quickly. This will inevitably take some getting used to but is likely to become a much more common feature on vehicles within a few years. If you have ever wanted to feel like you are piloting a spaceship, this is a step in the right direction.

Driver assist on the Audi SQ5

The sheer amount of things that driver assistance can do in any car now is staggering. The Audi SQ5 provides adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, distance warning alerts, cross traffic assist rear, an exit warning system and collision avoidance assist. Audi’s pre sense city comes as standard, warning the driver about pedestrians and vehicles, initiating automatic emergency braking when necessary. Every driver can benefit from these types of features, bearing in mind that it is often other road users you need to be most aware of.

Finally, it’s the little things that stick in your mind. The Audi SQ5 features LED lighting all round. A particularly nice touch is the Audi Beam. When the car doors are opened, the four rings logo is projected onto the floor.

Audi SQ5 side rear view in Azores green metallic

The Audi SQ5 with 354PS V6 TFSI is now available to order with first deliveries expected in June.

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