The first ever “S” variant of any Audi crossover, the new SQ5, will reach U.S. showrooms later this summer with a starting price of $51,900 (equal to €38,900 at today’s exchange rates), which doesn’t include a destination and delivery fee of $895. Though not a direct competitor, you could say that the 300hp BMW X3 xDrive35i ($44,700) with the optional ($3,000) M Sport package is a fairly close rival.
With the SQ5, Audi chose to develop two different models for Europe and North America, with the former sporting a 308hp (313PS) 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 diesel and the latter a 349hp (354PS) 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine.
For the American SQ5, Audi quotes a 0-60 mph (96km/h) sprint time of 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (250km/h). An 8-speed automatic and Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system come as standard.
Other highlights on the SQ5 include standard 20-inch wheels (or optional 21-inch rims), S model front and rear bumpers with Platinum Gray grille and diffuser, leather sport seats and steering wheel inside, along with an array of tech features such as keyless start, stop and entry.
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