For reasons we will try to explain but don’t promise that you will understand, Audi has prepared a new model called SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept priced in Germany at €92,000 (US$120,000 at the current exchange rates), or €33,500 (US$43,500) more than the regular SQ5 TDI that will list for €58,500 (US$76,000) when it arrives in German showrooms next year.
You may think that Audi has made some important changes under the hood to justify a 57 percent price hike over the regular SQ5 TDI, but that’s not the case as the two models share the same 3.0-liter bi-turbo V6 diesel delivering 308hp (313PS) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque.
What Audi or more specifically, its “quattro GmbH” sub-brand has done to the SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept is to upgrade the interior and develop an exclusive exterior finish – we told you that you might have a hard time understanding…the price concept.
On the outside, the diesel-powered model is painted in an ‘Aral Blue’ crystal effect exterior finish that is said to have been specially developed for this model – even though the untrained eye might have a problem distinguishing it from the regular blue colored display model (see here)…
Inside, Audi says the leather multifunction sports steering wheel and the gear lever gaiter in black Fine Nappa leather are accentuated with contrasting stitching in snow white, as are the center armrest and the dashboard cover.
In addition, the black sport seats are covered in Fine Nappa leather, which also feature contrasting stitching in snow white and black and woven leather in the center section of the seats. According to Audi, this is the first time that woven leather has been used on a production vehicle.
The Alcantara headlining, the blind for the sunroof and the inlays and applications in the doors are said to “shimmer in snow white”, while the inlays are in natural grain ash, and there are Audi exclusive badges on the door trims and the entry sills.
The Ingolstadt-based carmaker said production of the SQ5 TDI Exclusive Concept will be limited to 50 vehicles, with sales to start in the first quarter of 2013. The presentation of the new limited edition will take place at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September.
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