The Audi SQ5: still the undisputed champion of premium mid-size performance SUVs, a legacy forged from being first and a reputation burnished by global adoration.
The Audi SQ5 hits the sweet spot. It mirrors the Q5’s "just right" dimensions, performance, and price. Plus, the first two generations boasted diesel efficiency, a major draw for savvy drivers.
Back in 2013, Audi Australia unleashed the SQ5, and it promptly devoured a staggering 30% of all Q5 sales. Consider this: a near-$90,000 SUV muscling its way to becomethechoice Down Under. That’s not just impressive; it’s a testament to raw performance meeting everyday practicality.
A decade on, and the Audi SQ5 is back in Australia, reborn. Gone is the diesel rumble, replaced by a snarling turbo-petrol V6, now invigorated with mild-hybrid technology. The result? A surge of performance and surprising efficiency that leaves its predecessor’s petrol-only version eating dust.
"A decade is a lifetime in the automotive world. This isn’t just a tweak; the SQ5 has undergone a chrysalis, emerging with a striking new design and cutting-edge tech, barely resembling the SUV we’ve grown accustomed to."
The Audi SQ5 is back, and this time, it’s playing both sides of the field. Craving opulence? The luxo-spec SQ5 boasts every imaginable bell and whistle. Prefer raw power without the frills? The new "purist" edition delivers the same thrilling performance, but saves you a cool $16,000. Audi’s double-barreled approach aims to recapture lost ground in this fiercely competitive market.
Can Audi’s revamped SQ5 land a knockout blow against the BMW X3 M50 and Mercedes-AMG GLC43? We hit the sun-drenched Gold Coast for a rapid-fire first drive to see if Audi’s contender has the power and precision to reign supreme.
How much does the Audi SQ5 cost?
The new SQ5 boasts a lower price point,sort of. Audi’s launching an ‘edition one’ SQ5, a stripped-down, lean machine that sheds some high-end frills to offer a surprisingly significant discount compared to the fully-loaded model. Think of it as SQ5, but make it agile.
| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | | 2025 Audi Q5 TFSI | $81,000 | | 2025 Audi Q5 TDI quattro | $87,600 | | 2025 Audi Q5 TDI quattro sport | $94,100 | | 2025 Audi SQ5 edition one | $106,400 | | 2025 Audi SQ5 | $122,400 |
Audi’s playing hardball on price, positioning itself squarely against its German rivals. But here’s the rub: that tempting X3 M50 xDrive, boasting its electrified inline-six, still demands a $7,000 premium over the raw V6 power of the SQ5 (which starts at $129,600). Is mild hybrid efficiency worth the extra sting to your wallet, or will Audi’s brawny veteran tempt you instead?
Mercedes-AMG GLC43 buyers face a tantalizing choice: embrace raw driving purity with the stripped-down Edition R (starting at $128,900) or indulge in the fully-loaded standard variant (from $136,900). It’s a ‘less is more’ versus ‘have it all’ dilemma, mirroring Audi’s recent approach and forcing drivers to ask: What kind of thrill-seeker are you?
Forget settling! The Volvo XC60 Ultra T8 PHEV ($101,990) delivers hybrid efficiency without the hybrid price tag, muscling in with four-cylinder power. Meanwhile, Genesis throws down the gauntlet with the GV70 3.5T Signature Sport. It undercuts Audi’s SQ5 edition one ($100,200), but be warned: it’s a thirsty beast that doesn’t quite match the SQ5’s raw power. Choices, choices… fuel economy or brute force?
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What is the Audi SQ5 like on the inside?
My thoughts on the cabin of the SQ5 largely echo my thoughts on the standard Q5…
Audi’s new ‘Digital Stage’ isn’t just a display; it’s the star of the show. Encased in sleek, obsidian bezels, the brand’s cutting-edge interface explodes with vibrant clarity, putting the future of driving directly in your line of sight.
Behind the wheel, a newly sculpted ‘Sport’ steering wheel awaits, poised before a dazzling 11.9-inch ‘virtual cockpit’ display. This digital command center flows seamlessly into a breathtaking panoramic display, home to the vibrant 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen – your gateway to infotainment nirvana.
Ditch the drab displays of yesteryear! This car plunges you into a vibrant world with its dual OLED screens, boasting eye-popping brightness, rich depth, and crystal clarity. Even if you’re an Audi loyalist clinging to the old, blissfully simple interface, prepare to be captivated. These screens aren’t just attractive; they’re surprisingly intuitive, promising a seamless and engaging driving experience.
Trading classic dials for a screen straight out of a futuristic racer, the new virtual cockpit feels more "Grand Theft Auto" than grand tourer. While the adaptive central display and its live assist tech might appeal to some, I find myself yearning for the comforting familiarity of the old speedo and tacho. The saving grace? A clever integration of smartphone maps into the sidebar widgets – a genuinely useful touch in a sea of digital distraction.
The A5 and Q6 e-tron debut a stunning new interface, where vibrant graphics and fluid animations dance across the screen. Even the climate controls have been reimagined digitally, now anchored permanently at the display’s base, a constant touchpoint in a world of change.
Audi’s touchscreen climate controls? A necessary evil. Thankfully, they’re notallevil. Unlike some systems, Audi’s implementation is surprisingly usable. That little ledge below the screen? Genius. It provides much-needed hand support, transforming frantic stabs into confident commands while you’re on the road. Plus, the haptic feedback? Chef’s kiss. It’s a small thing, but it makes a world of difference.
The steering wheel controls? A deceptive dance of glossy surfaces. Theyappearto be the dreaded touch-capacitive nightmares, but a clever haptic trickery imbues them with the convincing sensation of actual buttons. Still, a ghost lingers: the satisfyingclickof Audi’s older, more tactile controls. A bittersweet swap, progress with a pang of nostalgia.
Alternatively, splash out on the $5,700 Tech Pro package and unlock the SQ5’s hidden superpower: the MMI passenger-side display. Think of it as a personal entertainment hub with streaming apps and functionalities, seamlessly extending the main interface. It’s even got a built-in privacy shield, so your co-pilot’s screen shenanigans won’t distract you. Though, truth be told, the 10.9-inch display feels a bit like Audi skimped on the pixels.
Forget the old SQ5’s plasticky past. This new model boasts a tangible step up in quality. It doesn’t quite reach the luxurious heights of its Q8 sibling, but it confidently outclasses rivals like the X3 and GLC, leaving you with a satisfyingly premium feel.
Don’t let the SQ5’s added length fool you – those rear seats aren’t stretching out. While the body gained 35mm, the wheelbase barely budged (a measly 1mm increase to 2820mm), so backseat passengers shouldn’t expect limousine-level legroom.
Even at 6’1", I found the backseat passenger space acceptable behind me – enough for another adult of similar height. It wasn’t limousine-like, but think of it as "cozy comfort." Leg and foot room are decent, but be warned: your knees might get friendly with the seat ahead, even with its strategically sculpted back.
Passengers in the back? They’ll feel anything but second-class. A dedicated climate control zone with adjustable vents ensures personalized comfort, while twin 100W USB-C ports stand ready to power up laptops and other power-hungry devices. Consider the rear seats a mobile office or entertainment hub, fully equipped for the journey ahead.
Beyond the basics, discover clever storage solutions: net-type map pockets for on-the-go essentials, and generously sized door bins ready for anything. The fold-down center armrest transforms into a mobile refreshment station with integrated cupholders. Plus, peace of mind comes standard with easily accessible ISOFIX and top-tether anchor points, ensuring your precious cargo is always safe and secure.
Above: Overseas model shown
Cargo space in the Audi is generous. Think 520 litres with the seats up – enough for a family getaway. Need more room? Fold the rear seats down and unlock a cavernous 1473 litres. Surprisingly, while maintaining its five-seat practicality, the official figures reveal a slight shrinkage compared to the previous two-seat configuration (1473L vs. 1520L). A minor trade-off, perhaps, for enhanced usability.
Say goodbye to rogue groceries! Australian Audi Q5s now feature a clever ‘Storage and Compartment Package.’ Think cargo nets and tie-down straps – finally, a civilized solution for taming that unruly boot. But hold on, there’s a catch: ditching the spare tire means relying solely on a tyre repair kit. A calculated risk for a clutter-free ride?
| Dimensions | Audi SQ5 | | — | — | | Length | 4717mm | | Width | 1900mm | | Height | 1647mm | | Wheelbase | 2820mm | | Cargo capacity | 475-1446L |
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What’s under the bonnet?
Forget diesel. The SQ5 enters its third generation reborn, ditching compression ignition for a potent 3.0-liter turbo V6 heart, electrified by a 48V ‘MHEV plus’ system.
| Specifications | SQ5 TFSI | | — | — | |Engine| 3.0L V6 turbo-petrol 48V MHEV | |Engine outputs| 270kW + 550Nm | |Electric motor outputs| 18kW + 230Nm | |Battery| 1.7kWh LFP | |Transmission| 7-speed dual-clutch | |Drive type| All-whee drive | |Weight| 2115kg | |0-100km/h (claimed)| 4.5 seconds | |Fuel economy (claimed) | 7.6L/100km | |Fuel economy (as tested) | 8.3L/100km | |Fuel tank capacity| 65L | |Fuel requirement| 98-octane | |CO2 emissions| 172g/km | |Emissions standard| Euro 6 | |Braked tow capacity| 2000kg |
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
How does the Audi SQ5 drive?
Saddle up; our SQ5 edition one experience was a fleeting fling at the media launch. These on-road impressions are raw, unfiltered, and based solely on that ‘purist’ variant. Consider this a taste, not the full tasting menu.
Above: SQ5 edition one
The DNA of the S5, which I enjoyed thoroughly a few months back, pulses strongly here. However, imagine that thrilling sports car, elevated, amplified, and ready to conquer terrains beyond smooth asphalt. That’s the essence of this ride: an S5 spirit unleashed with added altitude and all the adventurous capabilities that implies.
Audi’s 3.0 TFSI doesn’t scream; it purrs. A refined, brassy note emerges, a subtle symphony that truly ignites between 3000 and 4000 rpm. That’s when the quad exhaust awakens, unleashing a satisfying song. Lift off the throttle, and a playful pop punctuates the deceleration. Crave control? Manual mode, coupled with the paddle shifters, delivers shifts so crisp, they’re addictive.
Forget dawdling. The SQ5 erupts. From a mere 1700rpm, all 550Nm slams into action. Then, the MHEV’s electric surge – 18kW and 230Nm – piles on the pressure. Bury the throttle, and prepare for liftoff. Zero to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds? Believe it. Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive locks down the tarmac, unleashing savage acceleration with unwavering confidence.
Forget what you know about the SQ5’s transmission. While some might mourn the loss of the old eight-speed automatic, fearing the new seven-speed ‘S tronic’ dual-clutch, put those anxieties aside. This gearbox is a revelation – nearly as polished and intuitive as the legendary Porsche PDK found in the bygone gasoline-fueled Macan. Think of it as a synapse-quick mind reader, anticipating your every shift.
West of the Gold Coast, the SQ5 Edition One devoured the tight, serpentine B-roads. Even in our brief initial encounter, certain characteristics roared to the surface, leaving us hungry for a more comprehensive exploration of its capabilities.
The SQ5 claws at the asphalt, a tenacious grip that almost masks its elevated stance. You perch atop the cockpit, not nestled within it, a subtle disconnect that amplifies the body’s roll through tight corners. It’s a visceral reminder of the physics at play, a thrilling dance between power and poise.
However, the SQ5’s "progressive" steering feels frustratingly numb, a trait it shares with the S5. It’s a shame because the chassis beneath you hints at untapped potential, leaving you disconnected from the road and yearning for a more intimate driving experience.
SQ5’s "dynamic" mode steering? A numb hand on a video game joystick. Gone is the road feel, the subtle whispers of the tires, replaced by an artificial lightness that insults the legacy of communicative systems like those found in both generations of the Macan. Push hard, and the SQ5 rewards you not with connection, but with a detached driving experience that leaves you wanting more.
Above: SQ5
The SQ5 Edition One skips the adaptive trickery, instead planting its feet with a fixed ‘S sport’ suspension featuring frequency selective damping. Paired with the smaller 20-inch alloys, it walks a surprisingly deft tightrope between spirited handling and everyday comfort. However, dropping this much coin, one can’t help but feel adaptive dampers should be part of the party.
The SQ5 boasts an optional sport-tuned adaptive air suspension. Is it worth the $3800? Without experiencing it firsthand, a definitive verdict remains elusive. However, gut feeling suggests: splurge.
The SQ5’s mild-hybrid system is a fuel-sipping ninja when you’re not hammering the throttle. Lift your foot in "Drive," and the engine frequently vanishes, a silent accomplice in your quest for better mileage. Approaching a red light? Prepare for an encore – the engine shuts down again, maximizing efficiency as you coast to a halt.
Creeping through parking lots and gridlocked streets? The MHEV’s tech has a trick up its sleeve: a whisper-quiet, fuel-sipping EV mode. Imagine gliding through low-speed scenarios without guzzling gas – a zen-like experience in the automotive chaos.
The SQ5 boasts a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, stopping just short of the semi-autonomous highway piloting found in its predecessor and competitors alike. It’s a digital co-driver, almost.
Audi’s cooking up a software surprise for its PPC and PPE rides, unlocking features previously enjoyed only abroad, with Australia next in line. Expect this digital upgrade to land with a model year refresh. The big question: Will your current Audi get a taste? Retrofittingmightbe on the cards, hardware permitting, but Audi Australia is keeping mum on specifics.
It’s a bitter pill to swallow: Audi’s hands were tied, forcing them to strip features from Australian models to hit launch deadlines. A real shame, particularly when their adaptive cruise assist is usually a standout performer. Australian drivers are missing out.
Beyond its luxurious cabin, the Q5 acts as a vigilant co-pilot, easing the burden of modern driving. Imagine effortlessly gliding through traffic with adaptive cruise control that anticipates every stop and start. Feel the gentle nudge of lane-keeping assist, keeping you centered and secure. And with blind-spot monitoring watching your back, merging becomes a breeze, while rear cross-traffic assist adds an extra layer of security in bustling parking lots. The Q5 doesn’t just drive; it anticipates.
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
What do you get?
Standard specifications are up across the new Q5 and SQ5 lineup.
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2025 Audi Q5 equipment highlights – TFSI 150kW + TDI quattro 150kW :
- S line exterior
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Matrix LED headlights
- incl. selectable light signatures
- LED tail-lights with rear projection light
- 11.9-inch ‘virtual cockpit’ OLED digital instrument cluster
- 14.5-inch OLED touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless and wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
- Satellite navigation
- Audi sound system with subwoofer
- 8 speakers
- 180W output
- Colour interior ambient lighting
- Wireless phone charger incl. cooling
- Auto-dimming mirrors with memory
- Extended upholstery package incl. contrast stitching
- Inlays in matte brushed aluminium
- Rear seat bench – sliding, reclining
- 4-way adjustable headrests
Q5 sport adds:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Panoramic sunroof
- Electrically opening
- Electric sunshade
- Sport front seats with integrated headrests
- S line interior
- S embossing on front seats
- 3-spoke sport steering wheel – flat top, bottom
- Inlays in matte brushed aluminium with linear embossing
- Pedals in stainless steel
- Black headlining
SQ5 edition one adds:
- 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels – black metallic
- S sport suspension
- Red brake calipers
- Privacy glass
- Black exterior package
- Singleframe grille
- Front and rear bumper trims
- Window trims
- Lower door trims
- Roof rails
- Exterior mirror housings
- Dark tailpipe trims
- Audi rings in anthracite
SQ5 adds:
- Metallic paint
- 21-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels
- S exterior aluminium styling
- Acoustic glazing – front-side windows
- Premium leather upholstery incl. diamond stitch
- Interior elements in Dinamica suede
- Ventilated front seats
- Massaging front seats
- Interior dynamic interaction light
- Head-up display
- 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Higher charging capacity for USB-C interfaces
- 60W front
- 100W rear
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
Options
A pair of option packages are available for the SQ5, and just a single pack for the SQ5 edition one.
Tech pro package: $5700 – SQ5
- Heated steering wheel
- MMI front passenger display
- Electric steering column
- Heated outboard rear seats
- Digital OLED tail-lights
Carbon style package: $9200 – SQ5 + SQ5 edition one
- Carbon exterior mirrors
- Carbon door inlays
- Carbon roof spoiler
Beyond the standard offerings, personalize your ride with a stunning array of standalone options. Imagine your car cloaked in lustrous premium paint, rolling on uniquely designed alloy wheels that turn heads. Step inside to discover bespoke interior upholsteries and meticulously crafted trim inlays. For added comfort and privacy, opt for rear window sun blinds that create a serene oasis.
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
Is the Audi SQ5 safe?
While the all-new Audi Q5 awaits its official ANCAP stamp of approval, it’s already flaunting a prestigious five-star safety badge from Euro NCAP – suggesting a safe ride.
| Category | Audi Q5* | | — | — | | Adult occupant protection | 85 per cent | | Child occupant protection | 86 per cent | | Vulnerable road user protection | 79 per cent | | Safety assist | 77 per cent |
*Euro NCAP scores
Standard safety features include:
- 9 airbags incl. front-centre
- Active front assist – AEB
- Autonomous emergency braking – forward
- Front cross-traffic assist
- Front turn assist
- Swerve assist
- Adaptive cruise control with stop/go
- Driver attention and fatigue monitor
- Emergency lane-keep assist
- Lane departure warning
- Side assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Safe exit warning
- Rear cross-traffic assist
- Rear turn assist
- 360-degree cameras incl. kerb view
- Park assist plus
- Parking sensors – front, rear
- Semi-autonomous parking
- Speed sign recognition
- Tyre pressure loss indicator
Imagine effortlessly summoning your Audi’s most helpful driving aids with a single touch. Audi now lets you create a personalized "Favorites" menu, placing up to five of your go-to assistance features at your fingertips. Quickly toggle them on or off, tailoring your driving experience to any road, any condition, instantly.
Audi meticulously fine-tuned the Q5’s driver-assistance tech on native soil, a practice the German automaker employs to optimize nearly every fresh model for regional nuances.
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
How much does the Audi SQ5 cost to run?
Drive with confidence. Your new Audi Q5 or SQ5 is protected by a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, plus five years of roadside assistance – because peace of mind comes standard.
| Servicing and Warranty | Audi SQ5 | | — | — | | Warranty | 5 years, unlimited kilometres | | Roadside assistance | 5 years | | Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000 kilometres | | Capped-price servicing | 5 year Service Plan | | Total capped-price service cost | $3560 |
To see how the SQ5 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool
childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Audi SQ5
A fleeting first drive in the new SQ5 barely scratched the surface, yet the initial impression mirrored that of its Q5 brethren: serious potential. Where it truly shines, though, is in head-to-head combat with its rivals. The SQ5, it seems, packs a more potent punch than the standard Q5s in this competitive arena.
The SQ5 doesn’t just compete with BMW and Mercedes-AMG; it outmaneuvers them. Especially the Edition One, it delivers a knockout punch of superior performance and fuel economy while undercutting their price tags.
While undeniably rapid and boasting tenacious cornering grip, the driving experience feels strangely detached. The numb steering and perched driving position conspire to make it feel less like a true Macan S heir and more like a lightning bolt narrowly confined to a straight path.
Forget the plush leather and familiar feel; purists might mourn Audi’s heritage. But for gadget gurus, prepare to be dazzled: the future of Audi interiors has arrived, screens blazing.
Australian drivers miss out on the full technological symphony, a frustrating exclusion. Adaptive cruise assist, a long-haul highway hero, remains just out of reach. We’re tuning our radars, hoping these features, and potentially others, can be retrofitted once they finally land Down Under.
Craving the ultimate SQ5 experience? The standard model delivers a no-holds-barred symphony of luxury. But if raw exhilaration and maximum value are your driving forces, the Edition One roars into contention, proving that less can be so much more. Our first taste suggests it’s a serious contender.
It’s a whole $20,000 cheaper than its German rivals and still represents express premium transport for the family.
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Explore the Audi SQ5 showroom
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