The Audi SQ5 is a standout in the luxury SUV market, offering a combination of style, performance, and comfort that is hard to beat. While it shares many similarities with its sibling, the standard Audi Q5, the SQ5 has a distinct personality and a playful nature that sets it apart.
One of the first things you’ll notice about the SQ5 is its striking design. It features a unique mesh grille pattern, blackout details, and larger wheels that give it a sporty and aggressive look. Inside, carbon inlays add a touch of sportiness to the interior, and leather sport seats are available for added comfort. Audi’s excellent digital cockpit is also available, providing a high-tech and customizable driving experience.
Under the hood, the SQ5 boasts a powerful 354-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine. This is a significant upgrade from the base Q5’s turbo-four engine, providing an extra 93 horsepower for a thrilling driving experience. The SQ5’s chassis dynamics are slightly softer than its primary competitors, such as the BMW X3 M, Porsche Macan, and Mercedes-AMG GLC-class. However, this softer suspension setup offers a more comfortable ride, making it ideal for long family trips.
For those looking to make a statement, the SQ5 is also available in a Sportback version with a sloping roofline. While this adds a touch of vanity to the vehicle, it does come at a slight premium.
In terms of tech and features, the 2024 SQ5 sees some notable improvements. Adaptive cruise control with adaptive cruise assist is now standard, providing better effectiveness in all driving situations. Lane-keep assist and a heated steering wheel with Hands-on Detection (HoD) have also been added to the standard list. The myAudi app now offers remote start functionality and works with third-party services like Spotify and Amazon Music. Additionally, Arkona White replaces Ibis White as the exterior paint option.
When it comes to pricing and trim levels, the Premium Plus trim is the sweet spot in the lineup. It includes a panoramic sunroof, a leather package, a top-view camera, a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display.
In terms of performance, the SQ5 offers a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 349 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system, which can direct up to 85 percent of available torque to the rear wheels. While the SQ5’s acceleration is respectable at 5.1 seconds from 0 to 60 mph, the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 outperforms it with a time of 4.5 seconds. The steering response is accurate and well-weighted, but the focus is more on a comfortable ride rather than razor-sharp handling.
In terms of fuel economy, the SQ5 falls slightly short compared to the base Q5, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined. However, during a highway fuel economy run, the SQ5 Prestige test vehicle achieved an impressive 28 mpg, surpassing its EPA rating of 24 mpg. Overall, the SQ5’s fuel efficiency is in line with its competitors in the luxury SUV segment.
Inside the SQ5, you’ll find a comfortable and well-designed interior. Heated, power-adjustable front seats are standard, and diamond-stitched quilted-leather coverings are available as an option. The heated steering wheel, previously an option, is now standard in every SQ5. Three-zone automatic climate control and Audi’s practical and attractive design add to the overall comfort and convenience.
In terms of cargo space, the SQ5 offers a 27-cubic-foot cargo area, which is slightly smaller than the Macan’s 18-cubic-foot luggage compartment. However, the SQ5 can still accommodate six carry-on boxes, making it a practical choice for everyday use. The Sportback variant reduces storage space behind the rear seats by 3 cubic feet but provides a total of 52 cubic feet of cargo volume when the seatbacks are folded.
The SQ5’s infotainment system includes two USB ports, three 12-volt outlets, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Wireless Apple CarPlay smartphone integration comes standard. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display is available on the Premium Plus and Prestige trims, providing a high-tech and intuitive driving experience. However, additional USB ports for back-seat passengers would be a welcome addition.
In terms of safety, the 2024 SQ5 comes equipped with adaptive cruise control with adaptive cruise assist as standard. This feature coordinates cruise control, traffic jam assist, lane centering, and more for a smooth and safe driving experience. The SQ5 also offers several collision-avoidance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features provide added peace of mind on the road.
In terms of warranty coverage, Audi offers a standard warranty package that is typical for the industry. The limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty covers the same duration and mileage. There is no complimentary scheduled maintenance included.
Overall, the Audi SQ5 is a standout in the luxury SUV market. Its combination of style, performance, and comfort make it a top choice for those looking for a thrilling yet practical vehicle. Whether you opt for the standard body style or the sleek Sportback variant, the SQ5 offers a high-tech and luxurious driving experience that is hard to beat.
