Audi has pulled the covers off the refreshed mid-range performance variant, the SQ5. Available only in TDI turbodiesel form in Europe, it pairs renewed looks with an updated engine, although there aren’t any gains in terms of output. In fact, the headline figures from the 3.0 litre V6 are ever so slightly lower than before – 341 PS (down from 347 PS) and 700 Nm of torque. The difference is that maximum torque is now made over a much wider rev band than before, from 1,750 to 3,250 rpm, although the 5.1 seconds the car takes to get from zero to 100 km/h is identical to the outgoing model.

The SQ5 TDI comes with a 48-volt mild hybrid system that extends the engine’s start/stop operation and is claimed to reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.7 litres per 100 km. The electric compressor, which helps drive the turbocharger at lower revs, has also been retained but operates more frequently and across a broader engine map, giving the car greater response.

                                                   

The eight-speed automatic gearbox and quattro all-wheel-drive system are unchanged, the latter delivering a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split and being capable of sending up to 70% to the front and 85% to the rear. As standard, the brake-operated torque vectoring helps the car rotate when going into a corner, and you can enhance this effect by specifying the optional rear limited-slip sport differential.

As with the standard Q5, the SQ5 gets a fairly comprehensive makeover, dominated by a wider, flatter Singleframe grille that is no longer linked to the headlights. Speaking of which, the lamps feature LED technology as standard and segmented daytime running lights, with matrix LEDs and sequential indicators optional. At the back, you’ll find available OLED taillights in different designs, again with sequential indcators.

 

Inside, the SQ5 comes with either a black or grey interior with S-badged power-adjustable sports seats. These can be upholstered in either faux and rear leather, leather and Dinamica microfibre, or Nappa leather, with optional massage and ventilation functions. Also fitted are S-badged illuminated side sill scuff scuff plates, aluminium interior trim (carbon fibre items optional) and a stainless steel load sill protector.

As with the standard facelifted Q5, the biggest difference on the inside is the new MMI infotainment system, replete with a 10.3-inch touchscreen that relieves the need for a rotary controller on the centre console. It comes with a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit instrument cluster, Qi wireless charging and Car-to-X communication. A head-up display and a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system are offered as options.