Audi Unveils Diesel-Powered Q5 Sport Crossover

Volkswagen AG's Audi unit will introduce its first diesel-powered high-performance S model when the SQ5 crossover debuts in Europe early next year.

The twin-turbo, 313-hp V-6 oil burner makes 479 lb-ft of torque at less than 1,500 rpm. Audi says the SQ5 can zip from zero to 62 mph in 5.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 155 mph. The car, which has a starting price of $74,400 in Europe, is rated at nearly 33 mpg on the European test cycle.

The special model comes with an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, automatic engine stop-start system and permanent all-wheel drive with torque vectoring. Audi says the car has a rated towing capacity of nearly 5,300 lbs.

The SQ5 rides on a suspension that is 1.2 inches lower than the standard Q5. Twenty-inch rims are standard; 21-inch wheels are optional. To help distinguish the sport version from other Q5s, the S model comes equipped with a roof spoiler, modified bumpers, bright trim around the side windows, a platinum-gray grille and aluminum-look exterior mirrors and roof rails.

Inside, the instrument panel features gray dials with white needles, aluminum-look pedals and shift paddles and S badging on the door sills, shift knob, start button and specially shaped steering wheel.