The high-performance version of Audi's compact Q5 crossover, the SQ5 offers genuine thrills to go with its family-friendly interior. Buyers who don't want to sacrifice sport for utility will find SQ5 easy to love.
What's New for 2016
Aside from a few new options, the SQ5 is unchanged.
Choosing Your Audi SQ5
The centerpiece of the SQ5 is its supercharged 3-liter V6, which lays down 354 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque. To handle all that thrust, you get a sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, selectable driving modes, and summer performance tires on 20-inch wheels. An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive complete the mechanical setup. Outside, SQ5 wears special body trim to differentiate it from the standard-issue Q5.
The SQ5 is available in Premium Plus and Prestige trims:
Comes with all the expected luxury equipment, including heated front sport seats, a panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, a power tailgate, keyless ignition and a 10-speaker sound system with satellite radio. Seats are clad in a mix of leather and faux suede. The available Technology package rounds things out with a navigation system, blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera, parking sensors and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Gets the Technology package as standard, plus adaptive headlamps, rear window shades and a heated and cooled cupholder up front. The optional Driver Assist package tacks on adaptive cruise control and variable-ratio steering.
Both models can get a Luxury package featuring an extended leather interior and ventilated front seats. The available Black Optic package adds gloss-black exterior trim, body-color mirrors and matte-black roof rails.
Individual options include 21-inch wheels, rear side airbags, red-painted brake calipers and diamond-stitched Nappa leather upholstery.
CarsDirect Tip
The only compelling reason for upgrading to the Prestige is to access the Driver Assist package. If that's not a must-have for you, the Premium Plus is the more sensible choice.
