First Drive: Could the Audi SQ5 be the ‘do everything’ performance SUV?
The SQ5 has always been seen as the ‘everyday’ high-powered SUV, but is that still the case? Jack Evans finds out.
What is it?
Now, it’s time for a new one. Audi has flip-flopped between petrol and diesel power for the SQ5, but for this latest model, it has opted for the former with a little help from a mild-hybrid system to boost efficiency. We’ve been trying it out.
What’s new?
Interestingly, Audi is still offering the Q5 with a diesel engine to go alongside petrol and hybrid options. With its 475- litre boot, the SQ5 remains practical, too.
What’s under the bonnet?
Performance-wise, the SQ5’s 4.2-second 0-60mph time is more than respectable and it’ll even get to a 155mph limited top speed when given the space and means to do so. It’s also nice to see that the latest SQ5 gets ‘proper’ quad exhaust pipes – those on previous iterations of this car were simply trim pieces and there for show.
What’s it like to drive?
The steering isn’t the most communicative that we’ve experienced, but it’s more than accurate enough to place the SQ5 just where you’d like it. Sound-wise, the SQ5 is quite reassuringly subtle; there aren’t any cracks or pops, but it feels like this suits the overall character of the car. Plus, because of the SQ5’s design, you get a nicely elevated view of the road ahead.
How does it look?
For many drivers, that’ll suit quite nicely. Of course, being an Audi model means that there’s plenty of scope for customisation, with a wide range of exterior colours and alloy wheel designs to choose from.
What’s it like inside?
But space is definitely just right. Those in the back of the SQ5 do well in terms of headroom and legroom, while the boot – as mentioned earlier – is a good size and isn’t too high, so it’s easy to access.
What’s the spec like?
Upgrade to top-tier Vorsrpung specification and that price rises to £79,655 while adding features such as digital OLED rear lights and a panoramic sunroof. However, the standard car is so well equipped that it seems to be the better choice.
Verdict
The SQ5 continues to offer the classy and well-executed experience that you’d expect from a premium SUV. It manages to bring the right balance; there’s enough performance to keep things interesting, but you’ve also got a level of practicality that ensures this car will still come in handy during more ‘everyday’ adventures.
It’s expensive, yes, but the SQ5 comes with a level of equipment that helps it deliver quite a lot of value compared with rivals.