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2021 Audi SQ5 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Audi SQ5 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Athletic handling
  • Comfortable ride
  • Modern, stylish interior

Cons

  • Less power than some of its rivals
  • Numb steering feel in standard mode
  • Finicky infotainment interface

Mileage (EPA estimate)

18 city, 24 highway, 20 combined

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2021 Audi SQ5 boasts a modern, sophisticated look and plenty of power

Who says an SUV has to be bland? Audi’s SQ5 proves a compact crossover can have a vibrant personality. The 2021 Audi SQ5 carries over many of the improvements from the model refresh in 2018, but with a styling refresh. Also new for this model year is an updated infotainment system, wireless smartphone integration, and an integrated toll-road payment system. Most notably, Audi added an SQ5 Sportback model with a sloped roofline for a fresh look.

Well mannered on the road and well equipped from bumper to bumper, the 2021 SQ5 brings a powerful mix of performance and utility to the compact SUV segment. Audi’s all-wheel-drive system is standard, as is a strong 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Features like roof rails, a power liftgate, and a sport-tuned suspension add appeal to this family hauler, and heated front sport seats cradle each passenger comfortably.

All Audi SQ5 years

What is new for the 2021 Audi SQ5?

  • Enhanced safety features included as standard across all models.
  • Introduction of a new infotainment system with improved connectivity options.
  • Increased fuel efficiency ratings for the latest engine option.
  • New exterior color options available for customization.
  • Removal of the base model option, consolidating trims.

2021 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
  • Smart Key
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Seats
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Rear View Camera
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • View our Audi SQ5 Premium inventory

Premium Plus:

  • Includes all features available on the Premium
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Memory Seats
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Head Up Display
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • View our Audi SQ5 Premium Plus inventory

Prestige:

Audi SQ5 photos

What We Like

Interior: Heated, power-adjustable sculpted front seats are standard. Working your way up the trim ladder from Premium to Premium Plus to Prestige ratchets up the amenities and the price. We think the top-level Prestige trim is worth the stretch since it includes a head-up display, parking-assistance technology, and an upgraded Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.

Performance: Equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, the 2021 SQ5 is no wallflower. Beyond the hardware under the hood, Audi fitted the SQ5 with an outstanding suspension that soaks up bumps and holes in the road for excellent driving comfort. The brakes exhibit stellar stopping power, and steering is appropriately balanced and nimble.

Comfort: The cabin of the SQ5 is blissfully quiet, mostly free of road noise. High-quality materials augment the sophisticated design, including the plush leather seats with side bolsters. There is just one touchscreen, and it’s easily within reach. Four passengers can sit comfortably and there's space for a fifth, when necessary.

What Needs Improvement

Technology: This model year brings a new infotainment system, now with faster processing speeds and sharper resolution. The 10.1-inch touchscreen is standard, and a12.3-inch display features Audi's Virtual Cockpit, which replaces analog dials with a customizable digital configuration. Unfortunately, spotty connections to the wireless smartphone function and complicated voice commands diminish the overall effect.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

1 out of 5

1 customer reviews

RepairPal reliability rating

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

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

Prestige 4D Sport Utility 4WD/AWD

Standard Features

  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Locks
  • Cruise Control
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Traction Control
  • ABS Brakes
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Air Conditioning
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Power Windows
  • Smart Key
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Side Airbags
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Power Mirrors
  • Rear View Camera
  • Rear Defroster
  • Alloy Wheels
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Bang & Olufsen Audio
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Bluetooth Technology

Optional Features

  • Heated Mirrors
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

All Wheel (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

3.0L

Horsepower

349

Torque (ft-lbs)

369

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

18.5

Wheelbase

111"

Overall length

184.3"

Width

74.5"

Height

65.5"

Leg room

F 40.9"/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

2021 Audi SQ5 FAQ

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