Back in July 2012, Audi->ke14 announced the 2013 SQ5 TDI, which is the first S model in Audi's history to bear a diesel engine. That’s all well and good, but what if you really want the new SQ5, but are not a big diesel fan? Well, then you will have to wait for the petrol version to debut. And it will next week at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

The new Audi SQ5 TFSI will be specially developed for markets like United States, Canada and China, while in Europe the only version available will be the TDI one.

The model will be offered with the same "S" model upgrades seen in the TDI version: standard 20" wheels in triple-spoke design, a platinum gray radiator grille and of course a quadruple exhaust tips. Despite this similarities, the new petrol version has the advantage if being a little bit more powerful than the previous TDI engine, so the American customers will enjoy an extra 40 horsepower.

Updated 06/17/2013: Audi USA announced today prices for the 2014 Audi SQ5 that will arrive in U.S. showrooms later this summer. Click past the jump to learn how much you have to pay for the first-ever S variant of any Audi Q model.

2014 Audi SQ5 TFSI

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Audi SQ5 TFSI
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 354 @ 6000
  • Torque: 346 @ 4000
  • Transmission: 8-Speed Tiptronic
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Just like with the previous SQ5 TDI engine, the new TFSI version will be offered with a distinctive front fascia that includes a platinum gray radiator grille with horizontal double bars in aluminum look, distinctive bumpers and a roof spoiler. To further identify the model, Audi has also placed a series of V6 T badges on the front fenders.

The new SQ5 TFSI will come with two exclusive crystal-effect finishes -- Estoril Blue and Panther Black -- that can be combined with a gloss package and exterior mirrors in aluminum look.

The new Audi SQ5 TFSI will be offered with standard 20-inch alloy wheels and 21-inch wheels are available as an option.

Interior

The same sporty feeling will be offered on the inside, as the instruments are offered with gray dials with white numerals, and the pedals and shift paddles have a stylish aluminum-look finish. As standard, the interior will be offered in black, but as an option Audi is also offering a Moon Silver interior color.

The model will also be offered with standard sports seats covered in a combination of Pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara. As an option, customers will have to choose between Carbon Atlas, Piano finish or layered aluminum and wood in Beaufort black.

Engine

Under the hood, Audi replaces the V-6 turbo-diesel engine found in the TDI version with a new 3.0 TFSI engine that delivers a total of 354 horsepower between 6,000 and 6,500 rpm and a peak toque of 347 pound-feet between 4,000 and 4,500 rpm.

This version will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 second and up to a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). Even with this stout performance, it still manages to deliver 21 mpg.

The engine will be mated to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and will send its power to the all four wheels via a quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring transfer.

Price

The 2014 Audi SQ5 will arrive in U.S. showrooms later this summer at a starting price of $51,900.

Competition

BMW X5 xDrive50i

The list of competitors for the SQ5 TDI model is quite short, but the SQ5 TFSI version things won’t have it as easy.

In the U.S. market, customers can opt for a BMW X5 xDrive50i that is powered by a 4.4-liter V-8 engine with an output of 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. Of course, the X5 has significantly more power than the SQ5 TSFI, but it’s also pretty pricey at $64,200.