Video: Audi unveiled 2013 SQ5 TDI at 24 Hours of Le Mans today
Audi decided to seize the publicity at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans today by unveiling the new 2013 Audi SQ5 TDI. And before going into detail, simply by breaking down the nomenclature, you guessed right if you thought that means a sporty version of the Q5 TDI.
Powered by the brand’s 3.0L twin-turbocharged diesel V6, the Audi SQ5 develops 313hp and a whopping 479 lb-ft of twist. With all that torque ready to boot at 1450rpm, the 2013 SQ5 will jaunt to sixty in just 5.1 seconds for a top run limited to 155 MPH, all while being able to return 33 mpg on the Euro cycle. Not to mention, the Audi SQ5 is robust enough to be rated at a tow capacity of 5,291 lbs. Channeling that power through Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive transfer case is an eight-speed auto cog swapper with torque-vectoring at both axles.
Yea, the reason why America has been so ignorant about diesel passenger cars for the past however many years is beyond me.
Anyway, the SQ5 rides on a lower ride height than the normal Q5 TDI, by 1.18 inches. Electromechanical power steering was added along with 20-inch alloys with optional 21’s available.
Other differences include some exterior tweaks such as a more aggressive front and rear fascia, a more pronounced roof spoiler, Audi S-traditional aluminum-capped mirrors, and much more.
The new 2013 Audi SQ5 will start at a price tag of €58,500 or $73,903 USD. Whether we will see the SQ5 has not been announced.
– By: Chris Chin
