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The Audi SQ5 is arguably the unique efficiency SUV within the premium mid-size section, and to this present day it stays a well-liked selection each in Australia and all over the world.
Like the Q5 on which it’s based mostly, the SQ5 had that goldilocks pitch of being ‘just right’ in dimension, efficiency and value; and the diesel effectivity of the primary two generations was additionally a key promoting level.
Audi Australia says the first-generation SQ5 – launched in 2013 – at one level accounted for 30 per cent of general Q5 gross sales Down Under, which isn’t any imply feat contemplating it was priced at virtually $90,000 when it first went on sale.
Over a decade later and the third-generation Audi SQ5 is hitting Australian showrooms, now not providing diesel energy however as a substitute bringing a thumping turbo-petrol V6 with mild-hybrid tech that brings a noticeable enchancment in efficiency and effectivity over the petrol model of its predecessor.
Add to {that a} substantial replace to the design and tech, and it’s a really completely different SQ5 to the SUV we’ve identified for almost the previous decade.
Now obtainable in luxo-spec SQ5 guise ‘with the lot’ and a brand new ‘purist’ SQ5 version one model that gives all the identical efficiency for a $16,000 low cost, the most recent SQ5 goes dual-pronged in an effort to regain a few of its market share in a well-liked section.
Does the brand new SQ5 have the chops to out-punch the BMW X3 M50 and Mercedes-AMG GLC43, amongst different rivals? We took a fast first spin on the Gold Coast to search out out.
How a lot does the Audi SQ5 price?
The SQ5 truly receives a value drop for the brand new era… nicely, technically. A brand new ‘edition one’ launch particular strips out some luxurious gadgets for a considerable saving over the ‘standard’, full-fat SQ5.
| Model | Price earlier than on-road prices |
|---|---|
| 2025 Audi Q5 TFSI | $81,000 |
| 2025 Audi Q5 TDI quattro | $87,600 |
| 2025 Audi Q5 TDI quattro sport | $94,100 |
| 2025 Audi SQ5 version one | $106,400 |
| 2025 Audi SQ5 | $122,400 |
Audi’s pricing technique additionally strains up nicely towards key rivals. The X3 M50 xDrive with its 48V-assisted inline turbo-petrol six continues to be $7000 dearer than the full-fat SQ5 (from $129,600).
Meanwhile, the four-cylinder Mercedes-AMG GLC43 has just lately employed the same tactic to Audi, providing a purist-spec Edition R (from $128,900) and a regular variant with ‘the lot’ (from $136,900).
The soon-to-be-facelifted Volvo XC60 Ultra T8 PHEV (from $101,990) brings four-cylinder hybrid energy for much less, and the V6 Genesis GV70 3.5T Signature Sport likewise undercuts the SQ5 version one (from $100,200) however is thirstier and fewer potent in efficiency.
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
What is the Audi SQ5 like on the within?
My ideas on the cabin of the SQ5 largely echo my ideas on the usual Q5…
Audi’s newest show tech is entrance and centre, dubbed the ‘Digital Stage’ and working the model’s newest person interface, all housed in shiny black bezeling.
The driver is confronted with a brand new ‘Sport’ steering wheel which sits forward of the brand new 11.9-inch ‘virtual cockpit’ digital instrument cluster, housed in the identical free-standing panoramic show unit because the central 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system.
Both screens function OLED know-how for higher brightness, depth and readability, and on first impressions are fairly engaging and pretty straightforward to get your head round, even for those who’re used to Audi’s far easier previous-gen interface.
I personally am not enamoured by the brand new digital cockpit structure, which throws out the earlier typical speedo and tacho dials in favour of a brand new video game-esque adaptive central show with dwell help tech view within the center. One good addition, nevertheless, is the mixing of smartphone maps into the sidebar widgets.
As skilled within the A5 in addition to the Q6 e-tron, the brand new interface largely presents nicely with swish graphics and animations, and whereas the local weather controls are actually digital they’re completely on the bottom of the show.
While I lament Audi giving into the digital A/C pattern, the excellent news is that it’s nonetheless one of many higher implementations on the market. The ledge under the display screen helps as a relaxation on your hand once you’re making an attempt to make contact inputs on the transfer, and there’s a satisfying haptic suggestions.
Same goes for the steering wheel controls, which seem like shiny touch-capacitive models however the haptic suggestions makes them really feel like actual buttons. That mentioned, I do miss the clickiness of Audi’s previous-gen buttons.
You can even go for the MMI passenger-side show within the SQ5 as a part of the $5700 Tech professional bundle. It successfully extends the central interface with app and streaming performance, and a privateness filter to keep away from distracting the driving force, although like I’ve mentioned beforehand the ten.9-inch show appears a bit naff.
Build high quality feels fairly good, particularly in comparison with the last-gen SQ5 which was a bit laborious and scratchy in areas. It’s not a patch on the final atmosphere of the Q8, however feels good in comparison with one thing like an X3 or GLC…
The rear seats aren’t as large as you may anticipate, regardless of the brand new SQ5’s achieve in general size (+35mm). It’s price noting the wheelbase is close to unchanged at 2820mm (+1mm).
Behind a taller driver like 6’1″ me, there’s enough room for a equally sized grownup but it surely’s not stand-out. There’s first rate leg and foot room, however your knees might be pretty near the seat in entrance – even when it has scalloped backs.
Rear facilities are strong although, with a 3rd zone of local weather management and directional vents fitted as commonplace, as are a pair of 100W USB-C cost ports that can be utilized to cost laptops.
You additionally get net-type map pockets, first rate door bins, a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, and the requisite ISOFIX and top-tether baby seat anchor factors to cater to the kiddies.
Above: Overseas mannequin proven
Audi quotes 520 litres of cargo capability with the rear seats in use, increasing to 1473L with them folded. It seems to have retained its five-seat capability, however misplaced some two-seat quantity in keeping with official dimensions (1473L v 1520L).
Australian automobiles get the ‘Storage and compartment package’, which brings issues like netting and straps to carry unfastened gadgets in. The Q5 additionally lacks any type of spare wheel underneath the boot flooring, as a substitute providing solely a tyre restore package.
| Dimensions | Audi SQ5 |
|---|---|
| Length | 4717mm |
| Width | 1900mm |
| Height | 1647mm |
| Wheelbase | 2820mm |
| Cargo capability | 475-1446L |
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
What’s underneath the bonnet?
After two generations of diesel, the third-generation SQ5 goes solely petrol, powered by a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 48V ‘MHEV plus’ know-how.
| 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 kind | All-whee drive |
| Weight | 2115kg |
| 0-100km/h (claimed) | 4.5 seconds |
| Fuel economic system (claimed) | 7.6L/100km |
| Fuel economic system (as examined) | 8.3L/100km |
| Fuel tank capability | 65L |
| Fuel requirement | 98-octane |
| CO2 emissions | 172g/km |
| Emissions commonplace | Euro 6 |
| Braked tow capability | 2000kg |
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
How does the Audi SQ5 drive?
Disclaimer: We solely bought a comparatively temporary stint within the SQ5 version one on the media launch drive, so our on-road impressions are solely based mostly on the ‘purist’ leaning launch variant.
Above: SQ5 version one
There are a whole lot of similarities to the S5 which I drove just a few months in the past, with the principle variations being the raised journey peak and all the things that comes with that.
Audi’s newest 3.0 TFSI has a refined, brassy word that isn’t tremendous loud however is sort of satisfying when you hit the 3000-4000rpm mark, the place the quad-outlet exhaust actually opens up and sings. You get the odd overrun pop once you elevate off, and shifts through the paddleshifters in handbook mode are tremendous snappy.
With all 550Nm obtainable from 1700rpm, plus the MHEV plus system’s electrical motor contributing 18kW/230Nm underneath load, the SQ5 actually hustles once you put your foot down. It actually feels as much as assembly its 4.5-second 0-100km/h declare with the assured backing of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.
Some could also be cautious of the transfer to a seven-speed ‘S tronic’ dual-clutch auto, instead of the previous mannequin’s glorious eight-speed typical auto, however the SQ5’s shifter is fairly well-sorted and is nearly as refined because the Porsche PDK used within the previous petrol-powered Porsche Macan.
Our drive route behind the wheel of the SQ5 version one predominantly took us on tight winding B-roads west of the Gold Coast and, whereas we’d like extra time to get a correct real-world really feel, just a few noteworthy factors are instantly obvious.
The SQ5 is grippy however feels a bit top-heavy, because of its pretty excessive driving place. There’s a sense you’re sitting on it somewhat than in it, which exacerbates the feeling of lateral lean.
Secondly, the SQ5’s ‘progressive’ steering is simply too light-on for really feel and suggestions, just like the S5, which is disappointing given there’s fairly a capable-feeling chassis beneath you.
The overly gentle steering weight feels synthetic within the SQ5’s dynamic mode, and is a far cry from the fantastically communicative tillers within the Macan – each previous and new. It additionally takes away from the enjoyable and engagement once you’re urgent on.
Above: SQ5
In the SQ5 version one, you solely get passive ‘S sport’ suspension with frequency selective damping. On the smaller 20-inch alloy wheels it’s stability between dynamics and luxury, although at this value adaptive dampers ought to be commonplace.
You can get sport-tuned adaptive air suspension within the full-fat SQ5, however in lieu of seat time in a car with such gear, I’ll need to withhold judgement on whether or not it is best to spend the additional $3800 – chances are high you most likely ought to, although.
When you’re not gunning it, the SQ5’s MHEV plus system may be very energetic. Let off the throttle with the transmission in D and it’ll very often reduce the engine to save lots of gas. Same goes for once you’re slowing to a cease at an intersection.
A perk of the MHEV plus tech is it’ll additionally permit “limited” EV mode driving at low speeds, which means that once you’re rolling round in a carpark or bumper-to-bumper site visitors you’re not burning via gas.
As for help tech, the SQ5 has nearly all the things bar a semi-autonomous freeway mode just like the mannequin it replaces, and numerous different automobiles each on this section and others.
Apparently, Audi is engaged on a software program bundle for each PPC and PPE platform-based fashions to roll out this function and others which might be obtainable abroad, and can doubtless come to Australia with a mannequin yr improve. It will doubtlessly be retrofittable to some present vehicles pending the requisite {hardware}, however the model’s native staff couldn’t verify additional particulars.
It’s a disgrace Audi has been compelled to depart options off the roster for the Australian market in its effort to make sure a well timed launch, particularly as a result of the model’s adaptive cruise help operate is mostly superb.
The Q5 in any other case has a well-sorted set of driver help applied sciences, together with adaptive cruise management with cease and go, lane departure warning and lane-keeping help, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic help.
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
What do you get?
Standard specs are up throughout the brand new Q5 and SQ5 lineup.
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2025 Audi Q5 gear highlights – TFSI 150kW + TDI quattro 150kW:
- S line exterior
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Matrix LED headlights
- incl. selectable gentle signatures
- LED tail-lights with rear projection gentle
- 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
- Colour inside ambient lighting
- Wireless telephone charger incl. cooling
- Auto-dimming mirrors with reminiscence
- Extended upholstery bundle incl. distinction stitching
- Inlays in matte brushed aluminium
- Rear seat bench – sliding, reclining
- 4-way adjustable headrests
Q5 sport provides:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Panoramic sunroof
- Electrically opening
- Electric sunshade
- Sport entrance seats with built-in headrests
- S line inside
- S embossing on entrance seats
- 3-spoke sport steering wheel – flat prime, backside
- Inlays in matte brushed aluminium with linear embossing
- Pedals in chrome steel
- Black headlining
SQ5 version one provides:
- 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels – black metallic
- S sport suspension
- Red brake calipers
- Privacy glass
- Black exterior bundle
- 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 provides:
- Metallic paint
- 21-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels
- S exterior aluminium styling
- Acoustic glazing – front-side home windows
- Premium leather-based upholstery incl. diamond sew
- Interior parts in Dinamica suede
- Ventilated entrance seats
- Massaging entrance seats
- Interior dynamic interplay gentle
- Head-up show
- 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Higher charging capability for USB-C interfaces
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
Options
A pair of choice packages can be found for the SQ5, and only a single pack for the SQ5 version one.
Tech professional bundle: $5700 – SQ5
- Heated steering wheel
- MMI entrance passenger show
- Electric steering column
- Heated outboard rear seats
- Digital OLED tail-lights
Carbon model bundle: $9200 – SQ5 + SQ5 version one
- Carbon exterior mirrors
- Carbon door inlays
- Carbon roof spoiler
A spread of standalone choices are additionally obtainable relying on the variant, together with premium paints, alternate alloy wheel designs, completely different inside upholsteries and trim inlays, and rear window solar blinds.
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
Is the Audi SQ5 secure?
The new-gen Audi Q5 is but to obtain an ANCAP security ranking, although it already has a five-star ranking from sister authority Euro NCAP.
| Category | Audi Q5* |
|---|---|
| Adult occupant safety | 85 per cent |
| Child occupant safety | 86 per cent |
| Vulnerable street person safety | 79 per cent |
| Safety help | 77 per cent |
*Euro NCAP scores
Standard security options embody:
- 9 airbags incl. front-centre
- Active entrance help – AEB
- Autonomous emergency braking – ahead
- Front cross-traffic help
- Front flip help
- Swerve help
- Adaptive cruise management with cease/go
- Driver consideration and fatigue monitor
- Emergency lane-keep help
- Lane departure warning
- Side help
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Safe exit warning
- Rear cross-traffic help
- Rear flip help
- 360-degree cameras incl. kerb view
- Park help plus
- Parking sensors – entrance, rear
- Semi-autonomous parking
- Speed signal recognition
- Tyre stress loss indicator
Audi has allowed for fast entry to sure help function settings by the use of a favourites menu, permitting you to pick as much as 5 options that you simply may need to rapidly change on or off.
The German marque mentioned it hung out calibrating the Q5’s help methods domestically, because it does for many of its new fashions.
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
How a lot does the Audi SQ5 price to run?
As with the broader Audi lineup, the brand new Q5 and SQ5 vary is roofed by a 5 yr, unlimited-kilometre new car guarantee and 5 years of roadside help.
| Servicing and Warranty | Audi SQ5 |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 5 years, limitless kilometres |
| Roadside help | 5 years |
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000 kilometres |
| Capped-price servicing | 5 yr Service Plan |
| Total capped-price service price | $3560 |
To see how the SQ5 strains up towards the competitors, take a look at our comparability device
CarExpert’s Take on the Audi SQ5
My time with the brand new SQ5 was admittedly pretty restricted throughout our first native drive, however like its Q5 siblings it reveals promise with its wide-ranging skills – it’s maybe stronger towards its key rivals than the usual variants are, too.
Particularly within the case of the version one, the brand new SQ5 stays higher worth than its opponents from BMW and Mercedes-AMG, whereas additionally claiming sharper efficiency figures and higher fuel-efficiency.
But whereas it’s a lot fast and generates acres of grip in corners, the lacklustre steering really feel and elevated driver’s seat make it really feel extra like a straight-line stormer than a religious successor to the combustion-powered Porsche Macan S.
The new inside execution may additionally be polarising for lovers of traditional Audi cabins of previous, however tech-heads will little doubt be wowed by the brand new shows.
It’s additionally a disgrace the complete tech suite isn’t obtainable to Australians but, specifically adaptive cruise help to make prolonged journeys on the freeway simpler. We’ll preserve an ear out for whether or not these options and others might be retrofittable as soon as they’re obtainable for our market.
As for which SQ5 it is best to go for, clearly if you’d like the one with ‘the lot’ the usual variant is the one to go for – however for those who’re not fussed by all of the luxuries and simply need as a lot bang on your buck as attainable, the version one makes a robust case for itself based mostly on our preliminary drive.
It’s a complete $20,000 cheaper than its German rivals and nonetheless represents categorical premium transport for the household.
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MORE: Explore the Audi SQ5 showroom
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