I really enjoy what Audi has managed to achieve with this, its first S model in the Q model line up. I spent some time driving the Audi SQ5 and S3 Sportback in the Eastern Cape at its South African launch.

Normally these little sophisticated soft-roaders look just a little precious, but in S form, the whole plot has more of a purposeful vibe. The biggest visual change is probably the lowering of the suspension by some 30 millimetres, coupled to the use of 20-inch S-Design allows, which gives the Q-car a hunkered-down look. Added to this is subtle S-specific bright-work at various points around the car and a very aggressive-looking S-specific grille treatment.

Powerful diesel engine

It is interesting that Audi has chosen to only offer this car in diesel form, but what a diesel! The twin-turbo three-litre V6 is good for 230 kW and 650 Nm of torque, so the sprint performance figures of this car actually match those of the smaller Audi S3 Sportback. The interior of the SQ5 is class personified, coming standard with MMI 3G navigation and Audi’s Google Earth navigation package, and a particularly-pleasing flat-bottomed sports steering wheel beautifully trimmed in leather with just the right rim-girth.

Performance and economy

The acceleration on offer from the Audi SQ5 is seamless, its 0-100 km/h time being 5,1 seconds, just one tenth shy of that available with the S3! Fuel consumption is claimed to be 6,8 litres per 100, which will mean real-world consumption of around eight litres per 100, and much better on long cruises.

So, all this and you get a luggage area displacing 1560 litres. Ideal for the sporting soccer mom who is always in a rush! The price is not inconsiderable, though, atR794500.

Check out a photo gallery and detailed specifications on the new Audi SQ5 TDi here.

Audi SQ5 TDi Specifications