2017 Audi SQ5 Goes Electric

Well, not quite.

The new generation SQ5, like the incoming SQ7, will feature an electric compressor to combat turbo lag. The new SQ5 will use a 48V electric compressor in tandem with a single exhaust driven turbocharger, in lieu of the old twin-turbo arrangement.

In addition to reducing turbo lag the addition of an electric compressor will work to reduce heat loss from the exhaust system to the benefit of fuel consumption. The current SQ5 sips just 6.8L/100km of diesel on a combined cycle, realistically we can expect a sub 6L/100km from the new engine.

A recent interview from Autocar UK with Audi’s powertrain boss, Oliver Hoffman, suggested that the new generation SQ5 may produce as much as 290kW thanks to an all 3.0L turbo diesel engine, but a figure of 270kW might be slightly more realistic in the interests of maintaining drivability and reliability in Australia’s warm weather climate.

Following on from the release of the eagerly anticipated SQ7, the SQ5 is likely to debut early in 2017. Currently the highest selling variant in the Q5 family, the new SQ5 is sure to continue this sales success and drive the hot SUV segment for the German manufacturer.