New Audi SQ5 TDI 2021 pricing and spec detailed: Diesel power returns to German performance SUV, but only for a limited time

Audi Australia will finally launch the second-generation diesel-powered SQ5 TDI in November, more than three years after the local arrival of the new mid-size SUV range.

However, the SQ5 TDI will not be a full-time offering as denoted by its Special Edition moniker, instead available for a limited time and likely small numbers. CarsGuide has contacted Audi Australia to determine exactly how many SQ5 TDIs will come Down Under.

Since launching the second-gen Q5 locally in mid-2017, the top-tier SQ5 has been powered exclusively by a 260kW/500Nm 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6, which currently wears a pricetag of $101,136 before on-road costs.

The SQ5 TDI however, will make use of a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, punching out 255kW/700Nm, and is priced slightly higher at $104,900.

Drive is sent to the road via Audi’s rear-biased quattro all-wheel-drive system that can send up to 85 per cent of the torque to the back wheels, with the engine paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

As a result, the new SQ5 TDI will accelerate from zero to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds, while the inclusion of a 48-volt mild-hybrid system keeps fuel economy to 6.8 litres per 100km.

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Compared to its petrol-powered sibling, the SQ5 TDI is 0.3s quicker to 100km/h, while also being 1.9L./100km more frugal.

Standard equipment in the SQ5 TDI includes adaptive suspension, 21-inch wheels, auto-dimming side mirrors, Matrix LED headlights with dynamic indicators, black exterior package, powered tailgate, keyless entry, push-button start, 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, interior ambient lighting, tri-zone climate control, nappa leather seats with diamond stitching, carbon dashboard, panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charger and head-up display.

The multimedia system is also Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible.

Safety systems include autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, hill descent control and a surround-view monitor.

Available as options are a quattro sport differential, while four metallic and one pearlescent paint choices are on offer at no extra cost.

2021 Audi SQ5 pricing before on-road costs