Audi used the Le Mans weekend to announce it hot diesel SUV – the 309 bhp SQ5. It has exactly the same power as the Range Rover TDV8, but of course in a much smaller package, being an astonishing 900 kg lighter.
As well as 309 bhp, the 3.0 twin turbo engine produces 650NM of torque (pulling power) between 1450 rpm and 2800 rpm. Channelled through an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission it is good for a 0-62mph time of 5.1 seconds and a governed 155mph top speed. Official fuel consumption is a surprisingly benign 39.2 mpg, although Audi says, “up to 39.2mpg is possible according to the combined cycle test”, which does not sound like the company expects that to be a common experience.
The performance Audi RS4 Avant has gone on sale with prices starting from £54,295, and deliveries expected in Autumn. The performance estate hosts a 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with 450PS, and a maximum torque of 430Nm between 4000 and 6000rpm. The seven-speed S tronic transmission achieves 0-62mph in 4.7secs, a governed 155mph top speed and a thirsty 26.4mpg fuel consumption.
