Is the supercharged gas engine of the 2014 Audi SQ5 SUV quattro a bit smoother than the turbocharged diesel power in the Audi Q5 TDI quattro?It seems so. The turboed diesel, which I drove five months ago, produces slightly more thrust on kickdown; it generates 428 lb.-ft. of torque and 240 horsepower. The ratings for the supercharged gas version are 354 horsepower and 346 lb.-ft. torque.
Regardless of the differences, both are refined, responsive 3.0-liter V-6s tied to silky smooth 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmissions.
Since its introduction for the 2009 model year, the Q5 has been among the most likable of premium compact SUV crossovers.
Adding the supercharged V-6 for 2014 creates the first “S” high-performance edition for the Q5.
Low-range torque comes on immediately from the belt-driven supercharger. Audi says the SQ5 will run from 0 to 60 in barely over 5 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 155 miles per hour. A stiffened sport suspension has been lowered by more than an inch over the standard Q5. The Audi, which rode on Continental 235/55R19 winter tires, averaged almost 23 miles per gallon of premium fuel.
Its Nappa leather interior ($1,500 option) is inviting, sportily enhanced with a flat-bottomed steering wheel and stubby shifter.
Handling was superb as Jan and I, with Brent and Tina Wells, guided it through lots of fog last Sunday night near Bruce’s Bar at Severance. Fog lights helped brighten the immediate roadway.
Comfortable, supportive seating is a highlight of the rear-seat area, along with manual sunshades for the daytime. Cargo space behind the rear seats is 29 cubic feet.
A SQ5 Prestige package ($7,500) helped boost sticker price from a base of $51,900 to $64,195. The package included navigation, Band & Olufsen sound system, rearview camera, adaptive headlights, side-assist technology, the manual sunshades and thermo cupholder. Among other options, in addition to the Nappa leather, were gray metallic finish and layered aluminum/black wood inlays.
The Audi’s all-wheel-drive system can split torque 40/60 front-to-rear. Suspension includes five-link in front and rear trapezoidal-link fully independent.
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