Audi SQ5

Audi knows a thing or two when it comes to performance diesel engines. It's record of race wins with high power turbo diesels  at Le Mans speaks for itself.
The three litre TDi engine in the standard Q5 is a standout, (also found in other Audi models) and is one of the best if not THE best in the world.
Huge torque, virtually silent, they really are the benchmark.
Add  twin turbos to the engine and it's a whole new ball game.
Absolutely stonking acceleration, that will leave you speechless.
Zero to 100 in 5 seconds, just a tad slower than the stunning petrol 4.2 litre V8 in the RS4.(4.7secs.)
Towering performance from an SUV that sips fuel at an average of just 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres.
230 kilowatts and 650 nm of torque provides exhilarating thrust.
Under full throttle, the diesel in Comfort mode sounds gruff and authoritative, but switch to Dynamic and you'll know you're driving something very special.
To enhance the mechanical symphony, synthetised speakers in the mufflers produce a deep booming exhaust note not unlike a V8. At the same time the steering sensitivity stiffens up, ready to play boy racer through the hills.
Yet  this is also a car that will be happy in school run duties or shopping, it's that versatile.
The usual Q5 accoutrements are all there in the SQ5 .. plenty of room for passengers and luggage, with that hard edged performance lurking just a pedal prod away.
The SQ5 is naturally shod with high performance rubber on 21 inch wheels, that instantly identify it as  a car that means business.
It's a real style statement that separates it from  lesser models.
Ride quality even in Comfort settings is not a magic carpet. The SQ5 gets the jiggles over suburban ruts and manhole covers, but it's the price you would be prepared to pay for the sheer get up and go.
 All the usual Audi niceties are fitted inside, reversing camera, quality sound system and all the high tech gear you'd expect.
Corners are despatched with ease, and even though the SQ5 weighs nigh on two tonnes, and rides higher than a sedan, it's quite nimble, with plenty of steering feedback.
 If you've ever doubted that a diesel is far too mundane and something you'd never want to own, a quick spin around the block in the SQ5 ( or it's slightly less powerful sibling the Q5)  will have you hooked. don't ever underestimate the sheer grunt of a high tech oil burner.
Peter Sellen