Currently reading: Hot diesel Audi Q5 readied
Mid-size SUV gets refresh and a 309bhp SQ5 TDI version

A 309bhp SQ5 TDI model will spearhead a revised Audi Q5 line-up that’s set to go on sale in the UK from September.

The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 diesel model, first previewed by the 2009 Q5 Custom Concept, is likely to make its first public appearance at the Le Mans 24Hrs in June. The standard car will be launched at the Paris show in September.

See spy pictures of the new Audi Q5

The stylistic changes to the facelifted Q5 are subtle — aimed, in part, at ensuring solid residuals for the earlier model. The lightly disguised black prototype pictured here wears an optional S-line styling package, complete with 19in wheels. The copper-coloured mule, on the other hand, reveals the new SUV’s standard appearance.

Inside, there’s a new range of steering wheels and new trim applications together with the latest MMI (multi-media interface), bringing it up to the same standard as other recent Audis.

Audi will introduce two new 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesels in place of today’s popular units, kicking out 148bhp and 187bhp.

A smaller supercharged 3.0-litre petrol engine with 272bhp replaces the existing 3.2-litre V6.

Audi is also planning a petrol version of the SQ5 primarily for the US market, powered by an uprated version of the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 and producing 325bhp.

Greg Kable

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The Audi Q5 – the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer's rival to the Land Rover Freelander – may not be perfect, but it is a well rounded road-biased off-roader

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sars 4 April 2012

Re: Hot diesel Audi Q5 readied

Interesting article in the telegraph today regarding used car prices, apparently the Q5 diesel topped the list in retained value after 3 years @ 72% So whilst I haven't driven one and thus cannot comment on its ride and handling, there must be a whole lot of people that find them desirable and want a used one.

Bigsi 3 April 2012

Re: Hot diesel Audi Q5 readied

The 313 BMW figure is ps not bhp ( its the same as the Audi 309 bhp)

The Audi does have 20nm more torque at 650nm - BMW 630nm

I'd say they'd be pretty much the same performance wise- good news is that this may lead the way to a Biturbo A5 coupe !- Now then I would be interested !

disco.stu 3 April 2012

Re: Hot diesel Audi Q5 readied

coolboy wrote:
towards S-tronic gearboxes, I guess some will choose CVTs has better oness, maybe in a Terios.

The problem with a CVT for Audi is that it is not compatible with a variable AWD system. For a CVT to work, you would need a fixed ratio (normally 50:50) front:rear drive. Because the Audi torsen diff can continuously vary the drive to approx. 80% at either end, a CVT won't work and you need a car with fixed gears.