2021 Audi SQ5 review
Audi SQ5 highlights
Customer 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
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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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?
- SQ5 trims have been upgraded with Rear Seat Heaters, Leather & Suede Seats, and Heated Steering Wheel as standard equipment this year.
- Rear Sunshade features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Premium Plus trim now comes with Adjustable Suspension, Lane Departure Warning, Head Up Display, and Automated Cruise Control as standard equipment.
- The Premium trim now comes with Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitor, and Parking Sensors as standard equipment.
2021 Audi SQ5 trims
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:
- Includes all features available on the Premium Plus
- Bang & Olufsen Audio
- View our Audi SQ5 Prestige inventory
Audi SQ5 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2021 Audi SQ5
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
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 SQ5Audi SQ5 features and specs
Prestige 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- 4WD/AWD
- ABS Brakes
- Adjustable Suspension
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Bang & Olufsen Audio
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather & Suede Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- 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
The 2021 Audi SQ5 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Prestige: 18 MPG City and 24 MPG Highway
- Premium: 18 MPG City and 24 MPG Highway
- Premium Plus: 18 MPG City and 24 MPG Highway
The Audi SQ5 received a rating of 3 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks the Audi SQ5 as 22 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUV
The 2021 Audi SQ5 has received an average 1.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Audi SQ5, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Audi SQ5 Reviews.
The 2021 Audi SQ5 has a maximum towing capacity of 4400 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2021 Audi SQ5:
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Leather & Suede Seats
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Cruise Control
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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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