By Drew Johnson
Friday, Jun 15th, 2012 @ 5:22 pm
 
Audi has officially announced its long-anticipated SQ5 model, but with the twist. Expected to be powered by the same supercharged 3.0L V6 found in the S4, the SQ5 actually arrives with a diesel engine under its hood.

Audi threw a curve ball on Friday by unveiling the diesel-powered SQ5 TDI. Powered by Audi's 3.0L BiTDI engine, the SQ5 TDI represents the first ever 'S'-badged vehicle to use diesel power.

Audi's so-called "super-SUV" arrives with 308 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, but manages to deliver the kind of economy you'd expect from a diesel-powered vehicle. Audi says the SQ5 TDI can average 39.2mpg on the European cycle.

Performance of the SQ5 TDI is up to S-snuff, with the SUV capable of a 0-62 run in just 5.1 seconds. The SQ5 TDI tops out at 155mph.

Of course Audi's S-line is just as much about handling as it is straight line performance, so the SQ5 TDI comes fitted with a lowered sports suspension, an improved power steering system and 20-inch wheels. A set of 21-inch wheels are also on offer.

To set the SQ5 TDI visually apart from lesser Q5 models, the super-SUV features a platinum grey single-frame grille with galvanized double bars in an aluminum-look finish. The SQ5 TDI also sports a roof spoiler and modified bumpers.

The Audi SQ5 TDI is available for order now in the UK with prices starting at £45,000 ($70,400), but it remains unknown if Audi plans to sell the performance SUV in the U.S.