Audi SQ5 Sportback Shows Decent TDI Acceleration in Autobahn Test

We recently talked about the updated SQ5 TFSI for the North American market and how the exhaust wasn't fake for the 2021 model year. This is its European cousin, which makes about the same power while burning the dirtier kind of fuel. Plus, it's in the Sportback "coupe" format, so there's a lot to talk about.

The SQ5 started out as a TDI in Europe back in 2013, switched to TFSI in 2017, and now it's back in TDI format. The 3.0-liter engine is a new one and is more technologically advanced than its predecessors and rivals. This is mild-hybrid tech that also includes an electric supercharger to boost low-end delivery.

The sad part is that the hybrid tech increases weight past two metric tons. But the performance is still pretty good, as seen in this Automann-TV test, where the SQ5 Sportback hits 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.4 seconds and needs about 15 seconds for 200 km/h (124 mph). Audi claims 5.1 seconds for the standard sprint, but that's done under ideal conditions.

Fake exhausts are also making a return. Right at the beginning of the video, you can see how the four tips are nothing more than trim on the black plastic bumper. And the sound appears to be coming from speaker-like systems rather than the actual TDI. Audi wanted a rival for the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC Coupe, but the styling of this Sportback model seems forced, especially compared to the successful Q8 flagship.

The SQ5 TDI Sportback is also very expensive, even for a luxury SUV. Prices start at €72,950 ($88,500), which makes this more expensive than both e-tron SUV body styles. The resale value might also be terrible in a few years.