It seems Audi's first ever diesel-powered 'S' model was never destined to remain exclusive to the oil-burning realm - now there's a version for those with petrol in their veins.
However, the petrol option will be more about price than performance as the SQ5 TFSI petrol model is actually slower than the diesel from 0-100km/h, taking 5.3 seconds versus 5.1.
The SQ5 petrol is powered by a version of Audi's 3-litre TFSI supercharged motor, and in this state of tune it's good for 260kW between 6000 and 6500rpm and 470Nm between 4000 and 4500rpm. It thus trumps the SQ4 diesel's 230kW power output but falls short of its 650Nm torque figure.
Its fuel economy looks good on paper, as is often the case with NEDC figures, with Audi claiming an average consumption figure of 8.5 litres per 100km.
EIGHT-SPEED TIPTRONIC
Power is dispatched to all four wheels through an eight speed Tiptronic gearbox, which offers two modes, and Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system.
Furthering its cornering potential is a set of 20-inch alloys and a stiffer suspension system that lowers the vehicle by 30mm.
Added-cost options include 21-inch wheels, Audi's multi-mode Drive Select system and the Dynamic Steering system, which has a steplessly-variable ratio.
The SQ5 3.0 TFSI is destined to go on sale in South Africa but a launch date has yet to be announced. Given that it's only going on sale in the US in the third quarter, we'd bet on an early 2014 introduction. -IOL Motoring Staff