Audi SQ5 scores the Plus treatment

First it was Audi’s R8 V10, next its S8 super limo, and now, the German marque’s quick-footed SQ5 has been hit with the Plus treatment.

Revealed this week, more power and new equipment have thrown the SQ5 Plus into performance territory of proper hot hatches.

Helping is its twin-turbo diesel V6 that’s been tweaked to the tune of 250kW and 700Nm, producing 20kW and 50Nm more than before thanks to higher injection pressures.

Despite the power increase, the new SQ5 is no faster to 0-100km/h than its almost-two-tonne non-plus counterpart, claiming to still need 5.1 seconds for the sprint.

Top speed and fuel consumption figures remain the same as before, with the SQ5 Plus poised to hit 250km/h and use 6.6-litres during a European combined consumption cycle.

Perhaps more integral to the Plus’s new performance is the sports differential Audi’s added to its weapons list, which uses electronically controlled hydraulic clutch packs to vary torque left or right on the rear axle.

New standard 21-inch wheels, with 255mm wide footprints, are the final piece of the all-wheel drive system, and are finished in gloss black.

Meanwhile the exterior mirrors, door handles, rood edge spoiler, and rear bumper diffuser insert are also finished in the gloss colour.

Audi’s also offering 100 units in Macaw blue exterior paint, a body colour which will be matched to the stitching on Nappa leather seats, steering wheel, gear shifter, and carpets.

Germany will be first to welcome the hot Q5 this October at €67,700 (AU$108,411), or €4950 (AU$7927) more than the non-Plus model.

While specification and details are not yet known, Australia can expect the arrival of the SQ5 Plus early to mid next year.