When it first launched back in 2012, the original Audi SQ5 was the first S car to pack a diesel engine alongside its petrol powerplant, making it something quite unique in the German manufacturer’s performance line up.
But the spectacular fall from grace of diesel (particularly within the Volkswagen Group…) has seen the oiler dropped entirely from the latest generation, with the beefy 3.0-litre turbo petrol V6 being the sole choice of power, but this time with a mild-hybrid twist.
The SQ5 sits at the top of the Q5 range, and commands a significant premium over the base $111,990 TFSI S line, starting at $149,990 before you start ticking option boxes.
You do get quite a lot for that money though, with the SQ5 distinguishing itself by including high-end features as standard that are often optional on rivals, such as OLED taillights with customisable signatures, a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, and a head-up display.
Inside, Audi has overhauled the cabin with a "Digital Stage" layout that some may find overwhelming, particularly given the number of screens it thrusts in your face. The dashboard is dominated by three distinct displays: an 11.9-inch dial display for the driver, a massive 14.5-inch central MMI touchscreen and a dedicated 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger.
The screens are spectacularly crisp and the touchscreens are fantastically responsive, but there is just so much screen real estate here that some people may find it all a bit too much.
As you would expect, the cabin is solidly put together, with superb quality materials befitting its premium pricing, while the SQ5-specific sports seats are brilliantly comfortable and feature high-quality leather, heating, ventilation, and even a massage function.
The focal point of the SQ5, however, is undoubtedly that 3.0-litre turbo V6 engine, which produces a robust 270kW and 550Nm of torque. Audi has integrated its new MHEV+ 48-volt mild-hybrid system into the SQ5’s powertrain, with a 1.7kWh LFP battery and a powertrain generator that provides an additional 18kW of power and 230Nm of torque.
Acceleration is savage, feeling genuinely faster than its already brisk 4.5 second 0 to 100 time, while the belligerent bellow that emanates from the engine is simply exhilarating.
This hybrid setup allows for partial electric driving in stop-and-go traffic and engine-off coasting during downhill runs, enhancing efficiency without sacrificing the SQ5’s wonderful snarling V6 character.
On the road, it also translates into serious pace: the SQ5 belts from 0 to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds, and is capable of reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.
The fact that Audi doesn’t make a full-blown RS version of the Q5 is absolutely to the S version’s advantage, as it means that the SQ5 doesn’t need to be restrained in order to justify an RS version’s inevitably heftier price.
And it certainly isn’t in any way restrained; acceleration is savage, feeling genuinely faster than its already brisk 4.5 second 0 to 100 time, while the belligerent bellow that emanates from the engine is simply exhilarating.
Despite this performance, however, fuel consumption remains relatively restrained, with Audi claiming a combined average of 8.2L/100km, although if you take full advantage of that beefy performance it will creep up into the 10s.
Yes, the chassis is nicely communicative, with sharp turn in and impressive mid-corner adjustability, but it is all just so damn competent that it lacks any real thrills.
To balance this savage performance with its 2,115kg weight, the SQ5 relies heavily on its adaptive S air suspension, which is standard on the SQ5, but optional on the rest of the Q5 range. This endows the SQ5 with an impressive ride/handling balance, with a superbly compliant ride that is firmly sporty, but never harsh, even in its sportiest setting.
The impressive suspension combined with the excellent quattro all-wheel drive system imparts a sense of immense confidence on the road, regardless of conditions. In Dynamic mode, the engine note becomes genuinely angry and the thrust becomes even more insistent, but the handling remains neutral with a hint of oversteer possible through corners thanks to a torque-vectoring rear differential.
Yet, like all Audi’s the SQ5 is still all quite remote, with little in the way of feel or feedback through the steering wheel. Yes, the chassis is nicely communicative, with sharp turn in and impressive mid-corner adjustability, but it is all just so damn competent that it lacks any real thrills.
The SQ5 is also armed with a comprehensive suite of driver assists, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keeping Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
The driver assists work well and aren’t intrusive or overly sensitive, but in case they still bother you Audi has added a physical button on the end of the indicator stalk that allows the driver to quickly disable lane-keeping assistance.
The snarling engine and serious acceleration are perfect for quick thrills between the more mundane daily grind, where it is a superbly comfortable family hauler as well.
The Audi SQ5 is an impressive jack-of-all-trades that manages to be a refined family SUV during the week and a serious performance machine on the weekend. It offers more standard equipment than many of its direct rivals and provides a more comfortable ride than the likes of a Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. While the interior may be too digitally focused for some, the sheer flexibility of its V6-hybrid powertrain makes it a compelling choice.
However, if you want a more involving nature with all of that, then might I suggest taking a look at the S5 Avant, which is basically everything good about the SQ5 packed into a lower, sleeker wagon body with a nicely low centre of gravity and an even more engaging chassis...
How much is the Audi SQ5?
The SQ5 wagon we drive here lands at $149,990, but if you prefer a sleeker look to your performance SUV, then there is also an SQ5 Sportback that is mechanically identical, but gets a coupe-like roofline (and slightly improved fuel consumption) for $153,990.
What are the key statistics for the Audi SQ5?
The SQ5 is powered by a 270kW/550Nm 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine with a 48-volt MHEV Plus technology featuring a 1.7kWh LFP battery and an electric motor providing an extra 18kW and 230Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. System.
Is the Audi SQ5 efficient?
The SQ5 is surprisingly efficient for a high-performance SUV due to its hybridisation. It has a claimed fuel consumption of 8.2L/100km, which is easily achievable even solely in urban running thanks to the MHEV system that allows for partial electric driving in stop-and-go traffic.
Is the Audi SQ5 good to drive?
Yes, in a distinctly Audi way that may not appeal to everyone. As a daily driver it is superbly comfortable and effortless to live with, and out on the open road it is seriously quick and sounds wonderfully angry. But while it also possesses remarkably sharp handling, it does it all with a clinical lack of drama and almost brutal competence that makes it all feel a bit remote.
Is the Audi SQ5 practical?
The SQ5 is in the size sweet spot when it comes to SUVs - small enough to be easy to live with, but big enough to offer decent practicality. With luggage space of between 520 and 1473 litres depending on the seat configuration, the SQ5 can easily fit five adults, while a slidable rear seat bench allows you to adjust the balance between rear legroom and boot space.
What do we like about the Audi SQ5?
The turbocharged V6 is a fantastically bombastic engine, with a great soundtrack and seriously strong performance, while the adaptive air suspension is also a highlight, offering an impressive balance between handling and comfort. While it is pricey, it comes armed to the teeth with standard tech, and the Bang & Olufsen audio system is fantastic.
What don’t we like about the Audi SQ5?
While the engine is characterful and the performance is brutal, there is an oddly disconnected lack of drama. If you start adding options it very quickly gets even more pricey very quickly. And while we didn’t mind it, the sheer volume of screens inside the SQ5 may be a bit too much for some people.
What kind of person would the Audi SQ5 suit?
The SQ5 is ideally suited for anyone who wants a refined family vehicle but still desires high-performance capabilities. The snarling engine and serious acceleration are perfect for quick thrills between the more mundane daily grind, where it is a superbly comfortable family hauler as well. It is also a strong choice for tech-focused buyers who will appreciate the highly digitalised cabin and advanced lighting technology.