Audi expands its S range of cars with SQ5 TDI plus

Audi is further expanding its range of S models with the introduction of the SQ5 TDI plus. Based on a standard Q5, this high-performance diesel model boasts of a 340bhp engine, sport differential and 21-inch wheels.

The SQ5 TDI plus gets a gloss black treatment for the exterior mirror housing, door handles, roof spoiler and the diffuser. Further differentiating this new model from the standard range are the two clasps that join the four exhaust tailpipes in pairs. The car you see on this page is finished in what Audi calls macaw blue and is limited to just 100 units.

The blue paint scheme comes with crystal effect while the interior comes with sport seats in black fine Nappa leather. Matching the exterior colour, the cabin gets macaw blue contrasting stitching on the seats, the steering wheel and the selector lever gaiter.

The highlight of the SQ5 TDI plus is, of course, the 3-litre biturbo V6 TDI engine that produces 340bhp, around 27bhp more than the SQ5 TDI. Audi says it has achieved the power gain due to more injection pressure. The torque figure, too, has been raised by 50 to 700Nm and as a result, 0-100kmph comes up in just 5.1 seconds.

Like all S models from Audi, the SQ5 TDI plus delivers its power to the road via the quattro all-wheel-drive system. For the first time in the Q5 family, Audi has fitted its sport differential at the rear axle which actively distributes the power to the wheels. The SUV also comes with gloss black 21-inch cast aluminium wheels in 5-twin-spoke star design from Audi Sport.

Audi has announced that it will start selling the SQ5 TDI plus in select European markets starting next month. Meanwhile, Audi India will continue selling the standard Q5 range with the most powerful model featuring a 240bhp 3-litre V6 engine.