Audi has made a new toy for the Detroit Auto Show. When we first saw the SQ5 we noted it was the first S model with a diesel engine, which means we'd probably never get it. Now Audi's gone and made a new version for America with a free-revving supercharged V6 with two intercoolers. Sounds good already.
The 3.0 TFSI in the new-for-America SQ5 will give you 354 hp from 6000 rpm, while the 346.65 lb-ft peak torque (gotta be exact about it) is all yours two thousand revs earlier. Thanks to the sport-mode of the Tiptronic gearbox and the massive traction the Quattro all-wheel drive provides, 0-62 mph is done in just 5.3 seconds. While the top speed is limited to 155 mph, when you feel less cocky, the SQ5 will do 21 mpg. Not bad for a sporty CUV.
From the outside, all the usual Audi elements are there. The technocrat grill between the standard xenon headlamps with the LED daytime driving lights makes sure the Audi face burns into everyone's brain, while the two dual exhausts and the imitated diffuser at the back are just asking for a drag race at the lights. The rear spoiler and "V6 T" badges round off the package, but if that's not enough, 21-inch wheels and two crystal-effect finishes by the name of Estoril Blue and Panther Black are optional.
The interior is as black as the night standard, but the headliner can be ordered with "Moon Silver." The seats are wrapped in a mixture of Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara, and four additional colours are optional. To match the shiny pedals, the inlays are made of brushed aluminium, but carbon-fiber, piano black or a layered wooden finish are also available.
The SQ5 is scheduled to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the third quarter of 2013, with 59.33 cu ft of trunk space, in case you were wondering. Prices are TBA and likely outrageous.