Audi recently came out with the mid-size luxury SUV, the 2017 Audi Q5, at the Paris motor show.
The new car comes with all the latest generation gadgets and design to make it appealing in the wake of competition from vehicles like the new Mercedes Benz GLE. Even though Audi did not speak anything about a performance oriented version, it was always going to be apparent that the next generation Audi SQ5 was not far away. It has proved to be the case as the 2017 Audi SQ5 looks set to come with an even bigger list of tech which is predominantly made to help it go faster.
One of the improvements expected to have a big say in the performance figures is the 48V electric system, which will give the vehicle the capability to use an electric turbo charger. Rather than go with heavy hybrid technology in order to eliminate turbo lag, the use of an electric turbo charger is seen as the way forward. However, it requires the presence of a 48V electric system. Featuring this new technology is expected to help the 2017 Audi SQ5 aid the 3.0 liter V6 engine immensely. This diesel engine is primarily meant for the European markets while the North American markets will receive the V6 petrol.
The 2017 Audi SQ5 is also expected to come with air suspension as standard only in the North American versions. Europe has to do with a standard set up, which is likely to be sportier. However, even Europe is expected to get the option of adaptive air suspension. The new vehicle will be built at the Mexico factory, which has been purpose-built for this reason. Audi expects the new Audi Q5 to be a major seller. The vehicle comes with major improvements in styling – both in exterior and interior – and has added a lot of gadgetry as well.
Aided by the electric turbochargers, it is possible that the Audi SQ5 may produce in excess of 340 bhp and a 700 lb-ft of torque. This amount of torque has been seen in previous Audi models, but the 2017 Audi SQ5 will offer no turbo lag and this power should be available at the instant just like in the case of an electric supercar. The performance figures are likely to make this new luxury SUV as one of the fastest in its price range. Some of the competitors include the Mercedes Benz GLE AMG and the BMW X5M.