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How excited am I! It isn't often I'm thrown the keys to a brand new car, not to mention a car with a standard torque output of 650NM!! What the hell..? :P
I woke up early today, itching to get my hands on the key and see what this car is all about. For those of you using Mobile Devices, have a look at the pics below.. Before setting off I noticed the car has the Stop/Start feature and that really annoys me.. so I found the button, took a deep breath (instead of swearing at the Audi), then started off towards Gorleston!
The first thing that 'got' me were the seats... My God! Its like sitting in something designed just for me. The Porsche does not compare to this level of comfort. Don't get me wrong, my seats are adequate and I've never complained, but these things are pure sex! I could sit here forever.. Anyway - lets get out on the dual carriageway. First impressions are good. I've had a nice cruise from mine because it has that delicious DSG/S Tronic Gearbox that I love. Switching to Manual Mode is as simple as flicking the gear selector to the left, then using the Paddle Shifters on either side of the Steering Wheel. Perfection, and f*&k this thing is quick, even without remapping! This car has been booked in for Software Tuning by myself - and I will get that done before the customer returns later today. These newer cars have Tricore Anti-Hack Processors inside, so the ECU (Engine Control Unit) must be removed for programming, or you can use 'other' tools that bypass this technology. This engine, both pre and post tuning really is a joy to drive. I have increased torque by approximately 75-90NM and have better 'grunt' at lower RPM's. If I could afford this car I'd have it as a daily, the size is perfect too! The Chassis I can't knock it. We've got great Audi build quality, but a car that isn't as big as the Q7 so its loads of fun throwing around bends during my test. The Quattro system works well, I didn't notice any Oversteer or Understeer with the Traction Control switched off. It is 'nimble', and that is what a chassis should be. Especially if you are into driving like myself. For a Four Door, 4WD 'Wagon' I'm giving this Chassis 10/10. Top marks! The Body It looks slightly bulky in the images, but in person it isn't that big. The Range Rover Evoque looks larger in comparison (don't quote me here) but the SQ5 ticks every box. Lines are sleek, it looks boystrous but not too aggressive. The four tailpipes at the rear let people know what they are up against. I personally dislike the Audi stickers along the door sill - but each to their own.. at least it I'm not driving a MK4 Golf with dandruff and used baby nappies smeared all over the place. The Throttle I like! This thing is incredibly responsive - even at the factory 650NM limit. It lurches forward with finesse! That sentence was contradictory but people who drive powerful 4WD cars will understand. On the second test drive I had to get off the throttle quickly because it will hit 60mph before you can blink! It is insanely quick! The Exhaust This car is a Turbo Diesel so there is nothing to add in this section, other than the Quad Tailpipes really do enhance the aesthetics of this machine. It serves the car well and commands respect from road users of all ages. I've had a great time driving this car, and had a good time working on the engine. We are still running standard Boost and Rail Pressure maps, because at Stage 1 I don't feel the need to overwork the engine. It is definitely a great machine, now I need a cuppa. Nicholas Lawrence //ON CARS nick@on-cars.com |
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