A new performance version of the Audi Q5 crossover has been revealed to coincide with the start of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The 2013 SQ5 TDI packs a 3.0L, bi-turbo TDI diesel engine making 308-hp (313 PS) and 479 lb-ft. (650 Nm) of torque.
That’s a lot of power for the rather small crossover. Mated to an eight-speed transmission and Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring, the powertrain enables a 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) run of just 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). Fuel consumption comes in at just 7.2 liters per 100 km (39.2 UK mpg / 32.67 US mpg) on the European cycle.
As for the SQ5 TDI’s aggressive appearance, at least when compared to the standard Q5, that’s courtesy of a platinum gray single-frame grille with galvanized double bars in an aluminum-look finish, a roof spoiler, modified bumpers and 20-inch alloy wheels (21-inch wheels are optional) wrapped in 255/45 tires. Two exterior color options will be available: Estoril Blue and Panther Black.
The sporty interior features gray instrument dials with white needles; Pearl Nappa leather/Alcantara sport seats; brushed aluminum inlays; S-spec steering wheel, gear lever knob and decorative trim; and optional leather upholstery offering a choice of four colors. Other optional features include Carbon Atlas, Piano finish and new Aluminum/Beaufort wood black trim panels.
The 2013 Audi SQ5 TDI will hit European showrooms in the first quarter of 2013 with prices starting at €58,500 (around US $73,600). There is no word on whether it would be offered in North America.
