Audi SQ5 3.0 V6 BiTDI quattro 5dr Car Review - January 2013

The 3 litre V6 diesel engine fitted in the Audi SQ5 3.0 V6 BiTDI quattro 5dr offers an impressive balance between fuel economy and on-road driveability and performance. It develops 309bhp and 479lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and the vehicle can accelerate from 0 – 62mph in just 5.1 seconds. Its top speed is limited to 155mph.

Steering of the vehicle is responsive and well controlled, while the handling is complemented by the low suspension. Road grip is strong and as such there is very little body roll to be experienced through corners. The compromise for this performance is a firm ride, however it never gets too uncomfortable. Refinement is impressive at all speeds, with noise from both the wind and the road very well suppressed. Moreover, the engine runs fairly quietly too even at motorway speeds. The off-road capabilities of the SQ5 are limited.

The SQ5 3.0 V6 BiTDI quattro 5dr is an attractive vehicle which has been sculpted with smooth and sleek lines. A high level of equipment comes as standard. It is fitted with a 6.5 inch colour monitor and MMI operating logic, deluxe three-zone climate control, cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity. The model also comes with a 180-watt Audi sound system, rear parking sensors and light and rain sensors.

If this isn’t enough then there are several optional upgrades available for an additional cost. These include a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system and Audi connect which brings services from Google to the car. Also an option is a Technology Package which combines hard disc-based satellite navigation with iPod connectivity and the Audi Parking System Plus.

Driver, passenger and front side airbags are all standard fittings for the SQ5 3.0 V6 BiTDI quattro 5dr. It is also equipped with an alarm and an immobiliser to enhance the security of the vehicle. Additionally, a three year warranty for 60,000 miles comes as standard which should put to rest any doubts that buyers may have, although considering Audi’s superb reputation for reliability it is unlikely that anyone will have too many concerns.

Practicality is strong and there is a decent amount of room in the cabin for passengers, both in the front seats and in the back. They will have ample headroom and legroom while the boot is well sized too. There is room for a fair amount of luggage inside and it can be expanded to a large loading space by folding the rear seats flat. Several additional storage holders inside the cabin can be very useful for families.

The Audi SQ5 3.0 V6 BiTDI quattro 5dr is available at £43,870, which is rather pricey when compared with some rivals.

It has an average fuel economy of 39.2mpg which is actually not bad for the class, and as such the 3 litre diesel engine makes a lot of sense; it offers a great balance between performance, acceleration and efficiency. Moreover, the green credentials of the vehicle aren’t too shabby and it emits a respectable 187g/km of CO2. This is a lot lower than some rivals and means that annual road tax payments shouldn’t be too high.

Undoubtedly there is a lot of quality with this vehicle in terms of performance and it boasts respectable fuel economy and CO2 emission levels. The asking price is a little steep but for this you’ll be getting a reliable car which is a lot of fun to drive.