The Audi SQ5 is the high‑performance S‑model of the Q5 family: a compact luxury SUV with a turbo V6, sharper chassis tuning, and a more aggressive look and feel, while still offering the same practical 5‑seat layout and everyday usability. It sits one step above the Q5 in both price and performance but remains more balanced and liveable than a full‑fat RS‑Q8.

High‑performance compact SUV

The SQ5 is a five‑door, five‑seat SUV based on the latest Q5 platform, with a slightly more muscular stance, larger wheels, bolder bumpers, and quad exhaust tips that set it apart visually. It keeps the Q5’s roughly 4.7–4.8‑metre length and high beltline, giving it a commanding driving position plus a boot around 600–650 litres and over 1,600 litres with the rear seats folded, making it a practical family‑performance crossover.

3.0‑litre turbo V6 and mild‑hybrid boost

The current SQ5 uses a 3.0‑litre turbocharged V6 (3.0 TFSI) with mild‑hybrid (MHEV) technology that e‑boosts torque and slightly improves responsiveness and fuel use. Typical outputs sit around:

• 362–367 hp (≈270 kW) between 5,500–6,300 rpm,

• 550 Nm (≈405 lb‑ft) available from about 1,700–4,000 rpm,

paired with a 7‑speed dual‑clutch automatic (S tronic) and Audi quattro all‑wheel drive. This setup pushes the SQ5 from 0–100 km/h in about 4.6–5.0 seconds, with a governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). Official fuel economy figures are usually around 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined (roughly 8–9 km/l city, 10–11 km/l highway).

Sharper handling and premium interior

The SQ5 gets firmer suspension calibration, larger brakes, and sport‑oriented steering and damping versus the normal Q5, plus adaptive air suspension on many trims. The result is a more planted, responsive feel in corners while still remaining comfortable enough for daily use.

Inside, it mirrors the Q5’s sophisticated cabin:

• Virtual Cockpit plus 10–11‑inch MMI touchscreen,

• Leather/S‑line upholstery, sport seats, brushed aluminium or carbon‑look trim, and ambient lighting,

• Quattro Drive Select (multiple drive modes), MMI navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bang & Olufsen audio, and a comprehensive safety suite (adaptive cruise, lane‑assist, blind‑spot, 360‑camera, AEB, and more) on higher trims.

Who it suits and pricing trend

The Audi SQ5 is aimed at buyers who want a fast, practical SUV with strong on‑road performance, a premium feel, and enough space for a family, but who don’t need a full‑size RS‑Q8 or a track‑focused car. In 2026 markets, new SQ5s typically start around $65,000–$70,000 USD (or around 100,000–140,000 AUD in markets like Australia), with certified‑used samples often trading in the $45,000–$60,000 USD band depending on age, mileage, and spec.