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2020 Audi SQ5 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Audi SQ5 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Comfortable seating for all passengers, not just the driver
  • Interior is luxuriously modern
  • Clever small storage compartments

Cons

  • Smartphone connectivity is unnecessarily complex
  • Lacks touchscreen
  • Fake exhaust ports take away from the aesthetic

Mileage (EPA estimate)

18 city, 23 highway, 20 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Price
Year

2020 Audi SQ5 is well equipped from the base model on up

Audi’s performance-tuned crossover, the SQ5, is a sportier version of the Q5 but with a generous pinch of power. Loaded up with a 349-horsepower turbocharged V6, the 2020 Audi SQ5 gets an astonishing 101 hp more than the standard Q5. Far more than a grocery getter, the SQ5 rivals big-name crossovers like the BMW X3 M40i, the Mercedes-Benz GLC43 AMG, and the Porsche Macan S.

For all intents and purposes, the 2020 SQ5 is identical to the previous year’s model, which rode the wave of a complete makeover for 2018. It retains the same robust engine, three well-equipped trims, and summer tires as the 2018 SQ5, plus a four-year/50,000-mile warranty when new.

This SUV earns positive ratings for its combination of power and prestige, and we’re impressed with the sheer amount of value for a vehicle using such high-quality materials.

All Audi SQ5 years

What is new for the 2020 Audi SQ5?

  • SQ5 trims have been upgraded with Rear Air Conditioning and Tow Hitch as standard equipment this year.
  • Leather & Suede Seats features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Premium trim now comes with Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment.

2020 Audi SQ5 trims

Curious how Audi SQ5 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Premium:

  • 349-hp, 369-lb-ft of torque 3.0L
  • Adjustable Suspension
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seats
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • View our Audi SQ5 Premium inventory

Premium Plus:

Prestige:

  • Includes all features available on the Premium Plus
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Automated Parking
  • Head Up Display
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • View our Audi SQ5 Prestige inventory

Audi SQ5 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2020 Audi SQ5

What We Like

Storage: With 25.1 cubic feet of storage space behind the second row and 53.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, the SQ5 offers decent cargo space. The tray under the armrest slides back and forth, and there are plenty of other small storage spaces. On top of that, the SQ5 can tow an estimated 4,400 pounds when properly equipped.

Comfort: Audi has set the standard for sophisticated interiors, and the SQ5 does not disappoint. Supportive, cushy seats with side bolsters make it easy to drive for short and long distances. Not only is the fit and finish top-notch, the cabin is supremely quiet, as well. If it’s too quiet for you, activate the Dynamic mode for more of the “vroom-vroom” noises enthusiasts love.

Interior: Beautifully designed and appointed, even a base model SQ5 includes a highly adjustable steering wheel and seats. Audi ensured each passenger has plenty of headroom from front to back, and tall door openings make it easy to get in and out. Physical controls are placed nicely in reach for the driver, and the screen and camera are crisp and clear.

What Needs Improvement

Technology: Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto are standard in the SQ5, but a fussy infotainment system makes integration more complicated than necessary. Audi offers its Virtual Cockpit on the Premium Plus trim and above, and it brings a sharp, futuristic factor to the dash as long as you don’t mind a bit of a learning curve. Additionally, rear passengers are out of luck in the base model if they’re looking for USB ports.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3
Average

RepairPal gave the Audi SQ5 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Audi SQ5 23rd out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Audi SQ5

Audi SQ5 features and specs

Premium Plus 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

3.0L

Horsepower

349

Torque (ft-lbs)

369

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

18.5

Wheelbase

111.2"

Overall length

183.9"

Width

74.5"

Height

65.3"

Leg room

F 41"/R 37.8"

Head room

F 40.2"/R 37.7"

Front tires

P255/45WR20

Rear tires

P255/45WR20

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

440/4400 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2020 Audi SQ5 FAQ

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