Returning Audi SQ5 TDI goes mild hybrid

AUDI has revealed its second-generation SQ5 TDI mid-size SUV that features mild-hybrid powertrain technology from its large-size car and SUV stablemates, but whether it will return to Australian remains unknown.

In the UK, the SQ5 TDI will go on sale sometime between March and June, with local pricing yet to be locked in.

Audi Australia corporate communications manager Shaun Cleary said it is interested in bringing the SQ5 TDI back to Australia to sit alongside the 250kW/500Nm SQ5 TSI.

"We certainly see the appeal of the new SQ5 TDI for the Australian market, given the success of this model in the last generation," he said.

"We’re currently working on bringing the new SQ5 TDI to Australia in 2020."

Carrying over a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine, the new SQ5 TDI gains an electrically powered compressor (EPC), which was first used on the SQ7 TDI large SUV, and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system from the A6, A7 and A8 large cars.

The V6 engine has undergone modifications too, with a new crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods and oil management system that allows oil to warm up faster on a cold start.

With outputs rated at 255kW/700Nm, the SQ5 TDI will sprint from zero to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds, with CO2 emissions rated at 172g/km on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).

The EPC supports the turbocharger when the exhaust gas flow provides too little energy to spin the turbine, allowing for enhanced bottom-end torque.

Generating 7kW, the EPC spins the compressor wheel to 65,000rpm in approximately 300 milliseconds for a boost pressure of 1.4 bar.

The eight-speed automatic transmission has been adjusted to work more effectively with the mild-hybrid system, featuring a clutch in the central transmission that opens when the engine is idling or turned off.

A quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard, featuring a self-locking centre differential to distribute torque to the front and rear axles at a ratio of 40/60, but when slip is detected, the all-paw driveline will redirect power to the axle with better traction.

Suspension is handled by a five-link rear set-up with dynamic dampers, while the optional adaptive air springs can lower the body by 30 millimetres when compared to the standard Q5.

As standard, the SQ5 TDI is equipped with either 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels, with each featuring a unique design. Sitting behind the front rims, six-piston callipers squeeze 375mm rotors.

Driver-assistance systems extend to lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), park assist, traffic sign recognition and hill-descent control.

Inside, the SQ5 TDI features a dark-toned interior with illuminated door sills, a leather steering wheel and Nappa leather-upholstered sports seats with a pneumatic massage function.

A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster features alongside an 8.3-inch infotainment system with Apply CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.