The SQ5 is a five-door, mid-size SUV. It has sportier styling than other Q5 models. Changes over the regular Q5 include deeper bumpers, a small rear spoiler, bigger wheels and bright metal styling details. The changes are relatively subtle and give the SQ5 a classy look.
The SQ5 is fast and great to drive. It’s available with two very powerful engines, a turbo petrol and a turbo diesel that was introduced in 2019 to replace the petrol one. Both versions have an automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive, and feel secure on slippery roads and solid on motorways. Driving around town is easy and parking sensors make manoeuvring simple. Bumpy roads can make the ride feel a bit jiggly but the seats are very supportive and should still be comfortable after many hours of travel. The SQ5 can tow 2400kg, as well.
The SQ5 is a mid-size SUV with five doors and five seats. It’s the same size as the BMW X3, Mercedes GLC and Porsche Macan. Like all Q5 models, the SQ5 is a practical family car with a luxurious interior. Four adults fit easily and the amount of headroom means that even the tallest will feel comfortable in the back seats. There are two sets of Isofix mounts for child seats in the back seat and some models have one on the front passenger seat, too. The boot can fit a few large suitcases or a flat-pack furniture shopping spree if you fold down the back seats. All models come with heated leather seats, climate control, sat nav, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility and a digital driver’s display.
The SQ5 costs about the same to buy as similar high-performance premium SUVs. But it gets some features as standard that are options on some rivals, so it’s especially good value. According to official figures, both the petrol and diesel engines return an average fuel consumption of around 34mpg. On a long journey, the diesel will return more than that. All SQ5 models are in the top road tax band and high insurance groups. Audis are generally reliable and the SQ5 has a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. Driver assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking are fitted as standard.
The SQ5’s main rivals are high-performance versions of the BMW X3, Mercedes GLC and Porsche Macan. The SQ5 isn’t as good to drive as the BMW or Porsche, and the Mercedes is a bit more comfortable. But the SQ5 is better equipped and costs less to run.
The SQ5 is the sporty version of the Audi Q5 premium SUV. It’s fast, enjoyable to drive and has a luxurious yet practical interior.
All Audi’s are generally reliable and well made. The SQ5 has no particular issues to worry about.
Considering the power of its engines, the SQ5 is very economical, much more so than similar high-performance SUVs. Road tax and insurance costs are on the high side, but servicing is reasonably priced.
The SQ5 is a practical family car. It can comfortably accommodate four adults. The boot has enough space for a few large suitcases and the back seats fold down to create more.
High-performance versions of the BMW X3 and Porsche Macan are better to drive than the SQ5, and the Mercedes GLC is a bit more comfortable. But the SQ5 is more discreet and more economical.
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