The new Audi SQ5 is set to make more than 270 kW thanks to the electric compressor turbocharging technology first seen on the SQ7.
This is according to Autocar, which cited Oliver Hoffman, head of powertrain development at Audi.
Hoffman told the UK publication that although 290 kW “was possible” in the new SQ5, the final peak output would likely be around 272 kW in the interests of “driveability”. No torque figures were mentioned.
For the sake of comparison, the current Audi SQ5 makes 250 kW (although, in South Africa, it has been detuned to 240 kW, likely thanks to our less-than-perfect diesel fuel).
The new SQ5 – which is expected to launch at some point in 2017 – will employ a 48V electric system powering an electric compressor (positioned downstream of the intercooler) and running alongside a single exhaust-driven turbocharger (as opposed to the two turbos in the SQ7), Hoffman confirmed. This will, in theory, result in instant torque that will negate the effects of turbo-lag.
A 3,0-litre turbo-diesel V6 will still do duty under the bonnet, but will now benefit from the Ingolstadt brand’s new valve-lift system.
