Audi S5 gets turbo diesel engines

The Audi S series continues its switch to high-end diesel engines. The S6, S7 and SQ5 each received their diesel powertrains a while ago; the S5 coupe and liftback join the ranks today, with the convertible to follow soon.

Starting today, you can purchase either car with a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine assisted by a turbocharger, an electric supercharger and a starter-generator. The resulting output allegedly amounts to 347 hp (259 kW). Whenever the engine operates at less than 1,650 RPM, the 7-kW electric supercharger assists the turbocharger, improving overall dynamics. The maximum torque is unlocked between 2,500 and 3,100 RPM. The starter-generator provides a mild improvement in acceleration speeds by contributing 11 hp (8 kW) and 60 Nm (44 lbft) of its own when the car starts moving.

All electric components draw their power from the vehicle’s 48V electrical network and a tiny 0.5 kWh battery.

The turbo diesel engine links to an eight-speed automatic transmission and an AWD system. Normally, the torque is distributed in a 40:60 ratio between the front and the rear axle. When necessary, automatic torque control can vector up to 85% of torque to the rear axle and up to 70% to the front one. Active rear differential is available as an option.

The Audi S5 TDI takes 4.8 seconds to sprint from zero to 100 km/h. The Sportback version needs 4.9s to accomplish the same. All gas-powered versions manage to conclude the standard sprint in 4.7s.

Dealerships in Europe will begin receiving new S5 TDI models in May 2019, with prices starting from €65,300.

Photos: Audi