2021 Audi SQ5 Sportback [UK]

At the forefront of the range is the Audi SQ5 Sportback TDI. Its cultivated three-liter diesel engine produces an output of 251 kW (341 PS), the powerful torque of 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) is constantly available from 1,750 rpm to 3,250 rpm. An actuator in the exhaust system lends the sound tone and richness. Performance: 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 5.1 seconds, top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph) (electronically limited). The 3.0 TDI has been made even better in many details. The pistons have been changed from aluminum to forged steel. This new material reduces heat losses and because of its strength does not incur any weight penalty compared with aluminum pistons.

The solenoid valve injectors are able to inject the fuel with a constantly high level of precision because a new piezoelectric sensor monitors the closing of the needle. It can perform up to eight individual injections per work cycle and also meter minimal fuel quantities with high precision.  small, light compressor wheel rotates in the turbocharger of the V6 diesel engine, getting up to speed especially quickly - an important factor for the spontaneous and powerful development of torque. The intercooler now runs via a new, indirect water-air cooler in the inside V of the engine. The quick build-up of the boost pressure benefits from the short intake air routes.

MHEV and EPC: even more efficiency and spontaneity

The 3.0 TDI brings with it two technologies that reduce fuel consumption and enhance spontaneity. The 48 V mild hybrid system (MHEV) recovers up to 8 kW of power when decelerating. With the electricity from the lithium-ion battery, the CUV can coast for up to 40 seconds with the engine off, after which the belt-driven starter-alternator comfortably restarts the engine. Another building block in the 48 V network is the electric powered compressor (EPC). When moving off and accelerating from low rotational speeds, it accelerates the build-up of the boost pressure and ensures that the 3.0 TDI responds spontaneously.

Changing gears quickly and smoothly: the eight-speed tiptronic

As with the 3.0 TDI version of the Q5 Sportback, a fast and smooth-shifting eight-speed tiptronic handles the power transmission in the S model. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfers the torque variably as needed to the front and rear axles. On request, Audi can supplement this with the sport differential, which actively adjusts the distribution of the torque between the rear wheels when driving in a sporty style, directing more torque to the outside wheel that has better grip - making the vehicle even more agile when cornering at speed. The outside rear wheel is also given more torque when accelerating out of tight radii in order to further increase the dynamism.

New highlights: exterior and interior design

Distinctive details help the Audi SQ5 Sportback TDI leave an even more powerful impression. Vertical brackets give structure to the large side air inlets on the front bumper. Filigree bars connect large octagonal honeycombs with each other in the octagonal Singleframe grille. Audi LED headlights are installed as standard, Matrix LED headlight with automatic high beam and dynamic turn signals are available as an option. The rear bumper integrates a bracket in matte aluminum, under which the diffuser insert and four chrome-plated oval tailpipe trims can be found.

The new digital OLED technology can be chosen for the rear lights. The interior of the Audi SQ5 Sportback TDI is designed in black or dark gray colors, the illuminated aluminum door sill trims are decorated with S logos. There is a choice of three upholstery options for the electrically adjustable sport seats with the embossed S logos. Contrasting stitching adorns the seats and the steering wheel; a massage function and seat ventilation are available on request. Brushed aluminum is standard for the inlays, the alternatives are two carbon designs and a piano finish.

Market launch: first half of 2021

The Q5 Sportback and the SQ5 Sportback TDI roll off the assembly line at the San José Chiapa plant in Mexico. They can be ordered now and will be launched on international markets in the first half of 2021. For the Chinese market, the CUV will be built in CKD production at the Changchun plant.