Audi SQ5 TDI 2020 confirmed for Australia

Audi has revealed a new  diesel version of its hotted-up SQ5 mid-sized SUV, dubbed the SQ5 TDI. 

The current-generation Audi SQ5 has been a petrol-only affair up until now, but this diesel model changes the lineup - and it could be a good move, given the previous-gen SQ5 was diesel only, and proved extremely popular.

Under the bonnet of the 2020 Audi SQ5 TDI is a 255kW/700Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel engine that’s matched with an electric compressor at low revs and a 48-volt mild-hybrid set up for enhanced low-rev shove and improved fuel economy. 

The SQ5 TDI is claimed to be capable of a 5.1 second sprint to 100km/h, which is actually quicker than its 260kW/500Nm turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol brother, the SQ5. Both are capable of a top speed of 250km/h, and while the petrol SQ5 is rated at 8.7L/100km on the combined cycle, the diesel is rated at just 6.8L/100km over the same test regime in Europe.

As with the petrol version the SQ5 TDI is expected to be well equipped with features such as LED lighting, sports seats with leather trim, an 8.3-inch media screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a wi-fi hotspot with LTE internet connectivity, wireless phone charging and heated front seats. 

At the centre of the cabin is a 8.3-inch media screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Standard wheel sizing is 20-inches, and the ride height is 30mm lower than the regular Q5 for a more sporting look, as well as sportier driving dynamics. Wheels up to 21-inches are available, as are features such as a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a sports rear differential that actively distributes torque between the rear wheels, and a dynamic steering rack. 

The previous generation diesel-only SQ5 was overly successful in Australia, the new model as good as confirmed for local sales, according to Audi Australia’s corporate communications manager, Shaun Cleary.

“We certainly see the appeal of the new SQ5 TDI for the Australian market, given the success of this model in the last generation,” said Mr Cleary. “We’re currently working on bringing the new SQ5 TDI to Australia in 2020.”

Do you prefer diesel torque to petrol power in your performance SUV? Let us know in the comments below.