2020 Audi SQ5

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Rating8.2

Ranked #8 in 

Midsize SUV
Write Review
$52,900 - $62,150
Starting Price 
M. Hannigan's image
M. Hannigan 

Content Writer,

Updated on November 3, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Confidence Inspiring Handling

High Starting MSRP

New Premium Trim

Luxury laden Interiors

Not the best performing SUV

Standard Driver Assistance package on Prestige Trim

Better Interior Space than rivals

Black Optic Appearance package

Cushy Ride despite the sport suspension tune

Specs & Features

$52,900

price

349 hp @ 5400 rpm

horsepower

369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm

torque

8-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

3.0L 6cyl AWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Audi revamped the entire lineup of the SQ5 series of SUV's in 2020 and the 2020 Versions come with some more equipment and design changes. The SQ5 was one of the most selling SUV's in its class and with the Fresh Design and comprehensive set of features, Audi claims that the New SQ5 will build on the same. The 2020 Audi SQ5, gets a new trim namely the Premium Trim and follows the lines of the Q5. Power continues to be derived from a 3.0L Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection V6 Motor that develops 354hp and 369ft-lbs of Torque.

Buying Advice

The Prestige Trim justifies its high asking price with some luxurious and premium features like B&O audio, Power adjust steering column, HUD and more and hence, is the trim to choose.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The SQ5 gets a stiffer suspension tune, chassis and improved steering responses when compared to the standard Q5 other than the change in the engine configuration and the bump in power. The SQ5 comes powered by Audi's Quattro AWD system that offers plenty of grip at high speeds and makes cornering fun. Prices for the SQ5 begin from $52,400 for the base Premium trim and goes over $62,100 for the top of the line Prestige trim.

Features
7.5/10

The 2020 Audi SQ5 is segregated in three trims unlike the 2020 version, which only came with two. The new addition comes in the form of the base Premium Trim which makes the SQ5, more affordable to the masses. All these trims come paired to Audi’s superb Quattro AWD system and there is no FWD/RWD option in any of them.

Trims

Premium

Premium Plus

Prestige

Price(AWD)

$52,400

$58,200

$62,100

Features

3.0L TFSI V6 with Quattro

Adds/Upgrades to “Premium”

Adds/Upgrades these to “Premium Plus”

 

20” 5 Double Spoke Star Design wheels with 255/45 summer performance tires

MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch and Audi Connect Prime and Plus

755W Bang and Olufsen Sound System with 3D Sound, 19 Speakers, 16 Channel Amplifier

 

LED Headlights

Audi Virtual Cockpit

Power Adjust Steering Column

 

5-Specific adaptive damping suspension and brake system

Audi Phone Box with Signal Booster, Wireless Charger

Top View Camera System and Park Assist System

 

 

Panoramic Sunroof

 Heads Up Display
 

Leather/Alcantara Interior

Audi Side Assist, Pre Sense with Rear Cross Traffic and Vehicle Exit Assist

Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam and Active Lane Assist

We Recommend 

The Prestige Trim justifies its high asking price with some luxurious and premium features like B&O audio, Power adjust steering column, HUD and more and hence, is the trim to choose.

Fuel Economy
7.0/10

The 2020 Audi SQ5 shows a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency over the previous gen model. This time, it can munch 19 miles in a gallon of fuel inside city limits. Take it out on the highway and this number escalates to 24 MPG. With a combined mileage of 21 MPG, the SQ5 might be an improvement over its predecessor, but it still has a long way to go in this aspect.

Model

Audi SQ5 Premium

BMW X3 M40i

Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG*

Porsche Macan GTS*

MPG (city)

19

20

18

17

MPG (highway)

24

27

24

23

MPG (combined)

21

23

2

20

Range (city/highway)

(miles)

N/A

354/478

383/418

337/455

Tank Capacity (gal)

N/A

17.7

17.4

19.8

BMW X3 M40i has the best mileage rating in this segment and it’s rated at 20mpg for the city, 27mpg for highway and has a combined mileage of 23mpg. The Porsche Macan offers the lowest MPG figures in this comparison while the Merc manages to avoid embarrassment by delivering a slightly higher MPG figure than the gas-guzzling Porsche. The Audi remains in second position just behind the Bimmer.

Interior
9.9/10

The SQ5 provides enough room for four adults to get comfy and offers plenty of upscale features, even on the base Premium model-CarandDriver.com

Ergonomics and Comfort

The SQ5 has a seating capacity of 5 people. The leather seats are well contoured and provide a good support for comfortable long drives. The driver and the front-seat passenger can get the precise seating position as per their requirements using the 12-way power-adjustable front sport seats. The front seats also feature 4-way power-adjustable lumbar support. There is ample room for your legs, knees and head. The front row is very spacious, so, getting in and out of the car is really easy. The rear row might get a bit congested but overall, Audi has plush and comfortable looking interiors. Also, the standard heating and ventilating functions of the front seats further increase the lux-appeal of the vehicle.

The interior of the car feels spacious and the leather upholstery on the seats give the car a lavish vibe. The high tech virtual cockpit is easy-to-use. The controls are placed right and are responsive. The fit and finish on the door sill trim and aluminum inlays on the dashboard scream money, and all the detailing gives the car a luxurious feel. A few cheap plastics could be felt under the dashboard, but that's just fine. You won't really mind them being there.

Model

Audi SQ5 Premium AWD

BMW X3 M40i

Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG*

Porsche Macan GTS*

Passenger capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

41.7/57.7/41.0

40.0/57.6/40.3

37.8/57.3/40.8

N/A

Second

(Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

39.3/56.5/37.8

38.5/56.0/36.4

38.5/56.5/37.3

N/A

In terms of passenger volume, it's the Audi that takes the lead here. It has the most airy cabin out of the lot. The Bimmer follows it closely leaving the Merc for the third position. The Porsche stays out of discussion due to the lack of data in this regard.

Infotainment

As with all Audi Cars, there is a standard 8.0-inch full HD infotainment unit serving your entertainment needs in the 2020 Audi SQ5. It also happens to be one of the most technologically advanced MMI in the automotive world currently. There is also an optional 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit system that extends the oomph factor of the cabin (as shown below). Not to mention it brings a plethora of technology along with it as well.

Some of the few features of this System are:

  • MMI Navigation Plus and All in Touch with Handwriting recognition technology
  • 755W 19 Speaker B&O audio system with 3D sound with 16 channel amplifier
  • Cruise Control with Coast, Resume and Accelerate feature
  • Android Auto and Apple Car Play compatibility
  • HD/SiriusXM/INRIX XD Radio and Traffic system
  • SD Card slot with 64GB capacity
  • Heads Up Display with Navigation and Assistance System Info
  • Audi Pre Sense Basic and City
  • Home Link Garage Door opener
  • Bluetooth Connectivity and 2 USB ports
  • Audi advanced Key and Voice Control system

Cargo and Towing Capacity

The cargo volume of the SQ5 is not the biggest but it’s certainly not the worst. The SQ5 offers a generous 25.1 cubic feet of space and can further liberate more space, courtesy of the 60/40 split-flat folding rear seats. There are plenty of small cargo hooks on offer for hanging those small packages while the Cargo area lamp, illuminates the same during dark times.

The average towing capacity in this class lies somewhere around 3,500 pounds. The SQ5 can pull as much as 4,400 pounds and that’s more than its own curb weight. So much for a utilitarian!

Model

Audi SQ5 Premium

BMW X3 M40i

Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG*

Porsche Macan GTS*

Cargo Volume (ft.3)

25.1

28.7

19.4

17.7

Maximum Towing Capacity

4,400 lbs.

4,400 lbs.

3,500 lbs.

4,400lbs

The BMW X3 is the most spacious vehicle in terms of cargo capacity. The SQ5 follows it and secures the second place. Third comes the Merc and Porsche's puny 17.7 earns it the last position in this comparison. In terms of towing capacity, all of the said vehicles are equally matched except for the Merc GLC 43 AMG which can only manage 3,500 lbs behind it.

Interior Features

Like the Infotainment System, the Interiors of the 2020 SQ5 comes loaded with a plethora of features in it. Some of those include:

  • Three-zone Automatic Climate Control
  • Leather Covered Center Console and Door armrest
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Tilt and Telescopic adjust steering with Paddle Shifters
  • High Gloss Dark Brown Walnut Wood Inlays
  • Auto-Dimming RVM with Digital Compass
  • Ambient LED lighting
  • 8 Way heated and power front seats with 4-way power lumbar adjust and memory for driver
  • Sliding, Split Folding 40/20/40 rear seatbacks with adjustable recline
  • Leather-wrapped gear selector, center console and door armrest
  • One-Touch Up/Down Power Windows

Exterior
9.9/10

This version is a little sharper on the corners, the nose is a little longer, and the grille is a little bigger, but it’s largely conservative-TheCarConnection.com

Design and Dimensions

The Audi SQ5 has a sporty yet classy exterior. The platinum gray single-frame grille with the Audi logo placed in between gives the front an elegant look. The beautiful wavy shoulder-line flows from hood to tail.

The 20-inch double-spoke star alloys add to the classy appearance of this luxurious SUV. The Sleek looking LED Headlights, add to the appeal of the SUV while the sharp lines running across the Body of the SQ5 gives it a sporty look.

Model

Audi SQ5 Premium

BMW X3 M40i

Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG*

Porsche Macan GTS*

Length(in)

183.6

185.9

183.5

185

Width(in)

74.5

74.4

74.4

76.1

Height(in)

65.3

66.0

64.1

63.4

Ground clearance (in)

8.2

8.0

6.7

7.2

Wheelbase (in)

111.0

112.8

113.1

110.5

Neither the longest nor the widest but the car has the largest ground clearance of 8.2 inches. The wheelbase of the car lies in the middle with a length of 111.2 inches. In contrast, Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 4Matic has the smallest ground clearance (6.7 inches) and the longest wheelbase (113.1 inches).

Exterior Features

The Audi SQ5 has been the leader in terms of innovations on offer and the exterior features on the 2020 SQ5 are a living testimony to the same. Following are some of the features of the exteriors of the 2020 Q5

  • 20” Alloy wheels
  • Full LED Automatic Headlights with Dynamic Range Adjustment
  • LED Taillights with Dynamic Turn Signals
  • Heated Windshield Washer Nozzles
  • Powered ORVM with Auto Dimming, Power folding, Heating Functions and Integrated LED Turn Indicators
  • Power Tailgate
  • Body Colored Roof Mounted Spoiler

Safety
9.1/10

Audi doesn’t compromise on the safety front of its cars and the 2020 SQ5 is no exception. The 2020 Audi SQ5 packs in a lot of safety features as standard and Audi takes it a step forward with the advanced driver aids on offer. Based on the trusted MQB platform, the SQ5 leaves us with no doubt at all with its build quality. Furthermore, its chassis has been borrowed from the conventional Q5 but this one has been reinforced to contain the extra capabilities of the car.

Some of the few safety features include

  • Front dual-stage, seat-mounted thorax airbags
  • Side guard Head Curtain Airbags
  • ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
  • ESC with off-road mode, secondary collision brake assist and Traction control
  • Anti-Theft Alarm with motion sensors and vehicle immobilizer
  • TPMS with Electronic Parking Brake
  • LATCH in rear seats with Integrated Child Door locks in rear doors
  • Hill Descent Control

Competition
9.0/10

Audi Q5 vs BMW X3

The BMW has a slightly more powerful engine when talking in terms of horsepower. The SQ5 is overshadowed by the BMW in terms of acceleration, cargo space, and fuel economy. The BMW is costlier than the Audi but not by a big margin. The SQ5 however, outshines the BMW in the braking department. Of the two, if driving is your top priority, the BMW will suit your needs well. For everything else, it's the Audi.

Audi Q5 vs Mercedes Benz GLC

The engine of the Mercedes GLC 43 AMG is a far refined and powerful unit than that of the SQ5. The Mercedes is quicker to accelerate but except acceleration, the SQ5 performs better in every field when compared to the AMG GLC 43 AMG. The SQ5 has better braking, fuel economy and more cargo volume and towing capacity. Further, the SQ5 is cheaper than the Mercedes. The SQ5 here hence clearly wins.

Audi SQ5 vs Porsche Macan GTS

The Porsche Macan GTS has the least efficiency rating and also the least powerful brakes in the comparison. The Macan, however, gathers pace much quicker than the Audi but falls behind in the braking department. Also, the Macan costs a fortune more than the SQ5. There is by all accounts positively no explanation behind purchasing the Macan GTS over SQ5. The GTS might be a better handler of the two, but the SQ5 offers all of that for a much more subsidized price.

Final Verdict

Staying true to Audi’s name, The 2020 Audi SQ5 comes stuffed with performance capabilities, while not missing out on the luxury front. Its sport-tuned suspension and chassis account for fabulous stability around the corners and the ride never gets spine crushing. In terms of the looks, the SQ5 scores high with its futuristic-looking headlights on the outside and a superb digital display on the inside. Summing it up, if you want a performance SUV that does not compromise on features, practicality, luxury, and comfort, the 2020 Audi SQ5 is one of the best SUVs that you can get right now.

FAQs

Does the Audi SQ5 come with AWD?

Yes, the Audi SQ5 comes mated to Audi's legendary Quattro AWD system which is standard across both trims.

Is Audi SQ5 reliable?

Backed by its German roots, the Audi SQ5 is based on VW's trusted and well-proven MQB platform which has already earned maximum ratings for safety in other vehicles. Its V6 motor is also a tried and tested motor that ensures hundreds of thousands of miles if pampered properly.

Does the Audi SQ5 come in Manual Transmission?

No, unlike its previous iterations, the 2020 Audi SQ5 features only the automatic 8-speed DSG transmission with paddle shifters.

Does the Audi SQ5 come with any warranty?

Yes, the SQ5 is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. For more information, please head over to the beginning of this page.

 

Trims

    Premium
    $52,900 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl AWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 349 hp @ 5400 rpm hp
    • Torque: 369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.1 sec
    • Top Speed: 155 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    Premium Plus
    $52,900 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl AWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 349 hp @ 6400 rpm hp
    • Torque: 369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.1 sec
    • Top Speed: 155 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    Prestige
    $52,900 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl AWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 349 hp @ 6400 rpm hp
    • Torque: 369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5.1 sec
    • Top Speed: 155 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$52,900- $62,150

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

8.24

Horsepower

349 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque

369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$41,950- $55,900

Gasoline

7.75

248 hp @ 5200 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

$48,350- $63,100

Gasoline

7.3

250 hp @ 5500 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

7

Read Review

$58,900- $82,150

Gasoline

7.69

335 hp @ 5500 rpm

330 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$63,000

Gasoline

6.98

385 hp @ 5500 rpm

384 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

5

Read Review

$54,900- $59,500

Gasoline

7.53

385 hp @ 5500 rpm

384 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

5

Read Review

$73,750

Gasoline

6.81

469 hp @ 5500 rpm

479 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

5

Read Review

$42,500- $44,500

Gasoline

7.57

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

273 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

5

Read Review

$76,500- $84,100

Gasoline

7.89

469 hp @ 5500 rpm

479 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

5

Read Review

$50,900- $83,600

Gasoline

7.67

248 hp @ 5000 rpm

273 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

2020 Audi SQ5 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    2020 Audi SQ5

    Ranked #6

    5.1 sec13.8 sec155 mph
    4.11 sec--
    4.13 sec-114 mph
    4.51 sec13.8 sec-
    4.53 sec12.1 sec-
    2020 BMW X5

    Ranked #5

    5 sec13.7 sec129 mph

    2020 Audi SQ5 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      2020 Audi SQ5

      Ranked #6

      18 mpg23 mpg20 mpg18.5 gal.333/425.50 mi.
      2020 BMW X3

      Ranked #1

      25 mpg29 mpg27 mpg17.2 gal.430/498.8 mi.
      21 mpg30 mpg25 mpg18.8 gal.394.8/564 mi.
      22 mpg29 mpg24 mpg17.4 gal.382.8/504.6 mi.
      2020 BMW X5

      Ranked #4

      21 mpg26 mpg23 mpg21.9 gal.459.9/569.4 mi.
      18 mpg24 mpg21 mpg17.4 gal.313.2/417.6 mi.

      2020 Audi SQ5 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2020 Audi SQ5

        Ranked #10

        183.9 in.74.5 in.65.3 in.8.2 in.111.2 in.
        194.9 in.79.1 in.69.9 in.9.4 in.117.5 in.
        2020 BMW X5

        Ranked #2

        194.3 in.78.9 in.68.7 in.8.7 in.117.1 in.

        2020 BMW X4 M

        Ranked #3

        187.5 in.75.9 in.63.7 in.8 in.112.8 in.
        186.9 in.76 in.62.4 in.6.4 in.113.1 in.

        2020 BMW X3 M

        Ranked #5

        186.2 in.74.7 in.65.6 in.8 in.112.8 in.

        2020 Audi SQ5 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          2020 Audi SQ5

          Ranked #3

          25.1 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.53.1 cu.ft.
          19.4 cu.ft.-56.5 cu.ft.
          41.8 cu.ft.103.8 cu.ft.85.7 cu.ft.
          17.6 cu.ft.-56.5 cu.ft.
          17.6 cu.ft.-49.4 cu.ft.
          17.6 cu.ft.-40.6 cu.ft.

          2020 Audi SQ5 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            2020 Audi SQ5

            Ranked #1

            57.5 cu.ft.25.1 cu.ft.53.1 cu.ft.76 ft.
            40.6 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.40.6 cu.ft.-
            14.8 cu.ft.17.6 cu.ft.52.9 cu.ft.-
            85.7 cu.ft.41.8 cu.ft.85.7 cu.ft.-
            2020 BMW X5

            Ranked #5

            15.3 cu.ft.33.9 cu.ft.72.3 cu.ft.-
            92 cu.ft.19.4 cu.ft.56.5 cu.ft.-

            2020 Audi SQ5 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              2020 Audi SQ5

              Ranked #3

              4400 lbs.1036 lbs.4321 lbs.
              2020 BMW X5

              Ranked #1

              7200 lbs.849 lbs.4758 lbs.
              4409 lbs.1435 lbs.4099 lbs.
              2020 BMW X3

              Ranked #3

              4400 lbs.893 lbs.3931 lbs.
              4000 lbs.1210 lbs.4394 lbs.
              3500 lbs.1232 lbs.4191 lbs.

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