The product boss at Alpina has taken a swipe at the Audi SQ5, branding the TFSI version of the performance SUV “rubbish”.
Alpina, of course, develops high-performance versions of BMW products, working closely with the Bavarian automaker.
Speaking to motoring.com.au, Thomas Cornu, Alpina’s head of product management, had kind things to say about the original TDI version of the SQ5, but absolutely slated the second-generation petrol-powered model.
“The previous model [SQ5] was a TDI in Australia. It worked very well, and in Europe, too, it was a big success. It was [a success] everywhere,” Cornu told the Australian publication. “They started to produce a new SQ5 with a TFSI engine – and it was rubbish,” he added.
“Really, it’s not a good car, and the press was not good, and the car is not selling well – especially in Australia. It’s very low [sales] numbers, and that’s why … in Europe and Australia they are bringing the SQ5 TDI back again in 2020.”
Interestingly, Audi South Africa earlier told CARmag.co.za it had no plans to offer the new diesel-powered version of the SQ5 locally. The petrol model available here, though, generates 260 kW and 500 N.m from its 3,0-litre V6 heart, which Audi says is enough for a sprint from standstill to three figures in 5,4 seconds.
