2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback
MSRP Range: $59,200 - $67,600 Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.
2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback


360°



+61
good
7.8/10
edmunds TESTED
Like every Audi, the SQ5 Sportback will make you feel and look modern and chic with its accoutrements and advanced technology. The interior feels spacious for a coupe-style SUV, but rear headroom and cargo capacity are compromised. The ride may be on the firmer side due to its sporty nature, but it manages to throw in a bit of comfort to balance things out and the relaxing seats feel great to sit in.
Pricing
Total MSRPThis price includes a $1,195 destination fee charged by the manufacturer. | $60,395 |
---|---|
Edmunds suggests you pay | $55,011 |
What Should I Pay
2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback Review


byAlex Nishimoto
Correspondent
Alex Nishimoto has worked in the automotive industry since 2007. He was a staff writer for MotorTrend for 10 years and since then has contributed to CNET, PRI, AutoWise and other publications.
, rating written byRex Tokeshi-Torres
Associate Manager, Vehicle Testing and Operations
Rex Tokeshi-Torres has worked in the automotive industry for over 17 years. Rex is a vehicle testing technician and photographer at Edmunds and is responsible for coordinating vehicle testing and logistics, organizing data, and capturing photos for the site and social media. He has written over 100 vehicle-related articles and has rated, tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. He has also contributed content to Autobytel, Autotrader, Automobile, the Associated Press and DSport along with various motorsport teams. His affinity with cars started because of Hot Wheels and his love of modifying cars. He occasionally drives Subarus.
Pros
- Comfortable front seats
- Luxurious but restrained interior design
- Nimble handling
Cons
- Infotainment system is distracting to use
- Less overall storage space than standard SQ5
What's new
- Carbon-fiber interior trim now comes standard
- Part of the first Q5 Sportback generation introduced in 2021
Overview
If ordinary luxury crossovers are too practical for you, consider the Audi SQ5 Sportback, which does away with the standard model's pesky cargo space and trades it for a sloping roofline. Though that aesthetic choice might not be so good for hauling luggage, it does lend it a sleek, sporty look. And because this is the S model of the family, that look is backed up by a burly 349-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.32 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$254/mo for SQ5 Sportback Premium
SQ5 Sportback Premium
vs
$210/mo
Avg. Midsize SUV
Audi introduced the fastback variant of the Q5 and SQ5 in 2021, so the 2022 SQ5 is mostly a carryover model. The one notable difference this year is now every model gets carbon-fiber interior trim as standard. The SQ5 Sportback offers a wide assortment of standard features, including active driver assist systems like lane departure warning and blind-spot warning. Others like adaptive cruise control are available, but you'll need to upgrade to a higher trim.
The Audi SQ5 isn't the first small luxury SUV to offer a raked-roof version. The model joins the BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Infiniti QX55. There's also the Porsche Macan, which isn't quite as streamlined in the back but is one of the sportiest SUVs in the class. If luxury, performance and eye-catching design are top priorities for you in an SUV, the Audi SQ5 should be on your list. But if utility is also a priority, you may want to look elsewhere.
Edmunds Expert Rating
good
7.8/10
Edmunds Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Like every Audi, the SQ5 Sportback will make you feel and look modern and chic with its accoutrements and advanced technology. The interior feels spacious for a coupe-style SUV, but rear headroom and cargo capacity are compromised. The ride may be on the firmer side due to its sporty nature, but it manages to throw in a bit of comfort to balance things out and the relaxing seats feel great to sit in.
Rated for you by America's best test team.
Performance
8.0/10
How does the SQ5 Sportback drive? The SQ5 Sportback offers respectable performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds flat. However, the SQ5 sometimes hesitates from a dead stop. The brake pedal is easy to control and feels good in day-to-day use, but the SQ5 is merely average in stopping from 60 mph, at 119 feet.
The SQ5 feels composed and balanced on winding roads, but the Audi's relatively numb steering saps some joy out of the driving experience. That said, it's effortless to drive on a daily basis. It's easy to park, and the engine and transmission are smooth around town. While it has an off-road mode, it's best only used to go on small trails that lead to campgrounds.
The SQ5 feels composed and balanced on winding roads, but the Audi's relatively numb steering saps some joy out of the driving experience. That said, it's effortless to drive on a daily basis. It's easy to park, and the engine and transmission are smooth around town. While it has an off-road mode, it's best only used to go on small trails that lead to campgrounds.
Comfort
8.0/10
How comfortable is the SQ5 Sportback? The SQ5 offers comfortable and supportive seats in both rows. All SQ5s come standard with heated front sport seats, and ventilated seats are available. The tri-zone climate control works equally well, and rear passengers have the ability to control their temperature and fan speed independently. The system is quick to chill the car and runs on the cool side, though that's preferable to running warm. Add all this to the hushed cabin and the SQ5 gives off a decidedly premium feel.
The ride in the SQ5 skews toward the firm side for a small luxury SUV, but it's not uncomfortable or harsh. Switch the drive mode to Comfort and it softens up a bit.
The ride in the SQ5 skews toward the firm side for a small luxury SUV, but it's not uncomfortable or harsh. Switch the drive mode to Comfort and it softens up a bit.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
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2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback pricing
in Ashburn, VAEdmunds suggests you pay
Interior
8.0/10
How’s the interior? This is where the Sportback's sleek roofline becomes an issue compared to more traditional SUVs. Getting in and out can be relatively easy for average-size people, but taller passengers will have to duck a bit. That said, the cabin is spacious whether you're sitting in the front or the back seat. It has better outward visibility than other SUV coupes, but it's still not as good as other SUVs.
The controls are all clearly marked, and it only takes a quick glance to acclimate yourself to where things are. The standard 10.1-inch touchscreen has crisp graphics, even though the screen itself looks like a tablet tacked onto the dash. Our editors have mixed opinions on the ease of operating the infotainment system. Some think the touchscreen is simple to use, while others find it more distracting to poke and swipe on the screen than use a touchpad or controller dial, like Audi had for its prior generations. Otherwise, everything is easy to see and reach thanks to an excellent driving position.
The controls are all clearly marked, and it only takes a quick glance to acclimate yourself to where things are. The standard 10.1-inch touchscreen has crisp graphics, even though the screen itself looks like a tablet tacked onto the dash. Our editors have mixed opinions on the ease of operating the infotainment system. Some think the touchscreen is simple to use, while others find it more distracting to poke and swipe on the screen than use a touchpad or controller dial, like Audi had for its prior generations. Otherwise, everything is easy to see and reach thanks to an excellent driving position.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? Audi has been updating its in-car tech over the past few years. It's mostly solid, but there were a few hiccups. Wireless Apple CarPlay smartphone integration comes standard, but connection issues forced us to use a USB connection. Don't expect much from the voice activation system either, which requires you to adhere to strict prompts. Our SQ5 was equipped with the optional Bang & Olufsen stereo system. It's crisp and clear and doesn't get muddy at higher volumes. Our test vehicle also included a wireless charging pad.
The advanced driver aids performed well — most notably the adaptive cruise, which provided a good following distance. We must warn you of the lane keeping assistance that seemed to interject every couple of minutes.
The advanced driver aids performed well — most notably the adaptive cruise, which provided a good following distance. We must warn you of the lane keeping assistance that seemed to interject every couple of minutes.
Storage
8.0/10
How’s the storage? At 24.7 cubic feet, the SQ5 Sportback's cargo area is average for the class and only slightly smaller than the standard Q5's. Stack items higher and you'll notice a bigger difference that roofline makes. Folding the rear seats flat gives you 51.9 cubic feet. There are a few tie-down points inside but no underfloor storage. Small-item storage inside the cabin is merely average with a shallow center console and two small trays that could hold an ID badge or transponder, along with a couple of cubbies.
When equipped with the optional trailer hitch, the SQ5 boasts a maximum towing capacity up to 4,400 pounds, which is strong for the class. Only a few competitors can match it. For parents, the easily accessible car seat attachment points and roomy back seat should make it easy to install even the bulkiest of rear-facing infant seats.
When equipped with the optional trailer hitch, the SQ5 boasts a maximum towing capacity up to 4,400 pounds, which is strong for the class. Only a few competitors can match it. For parents, the easily accessible car seat attachment points and roomy back seat should make it easy to install even the bulkiest of rear-facing infant seats.
Fuel Economy
7.0/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the SQ5 Sportback gets 21 mpg combined, which is average among sport-oriented small SUVs. Like many SUVs in this class, the SQ5 requires premium fuel. We averaged 22.1 mpg on Edmunds' 115-mile test loop with a mix of highway and city driving.
Value
7.5/10
Is the SQ5 Sportback a good value? Audi's reputation for excellent build quality shines through in the SQ5 Sportback. The interior and exterior gaps and panels have a tight fit and are outfitted with excellent materials. It's priced well too. While it's not quite as quick or as powerful as rivals from BMW or Mercedes-Benz, the Audi undercuts the competition with a base price of $57,300.
The standard four years/50,000 miles of basic and powertrain coverage is typical of luxury SUVs. Audi also includes 12 years/unlimited miles of rust coverage and four years/unlimited miles of roadside assistance.
The standard four years/50,000 miles of basic and powertrain coverage is typical of luxury SUVs. Audi also includes 12 years/unlimited miles of rust coverage and four years/unlimited miles of roadside assistance.
Wildcard
7.5/10
Aside from wheels and badging, nothing visually separates the SQ5 from the standard Q5 Sportback. That's disappointing given the price jump between the two. Still, it strikes a good balance between classy and sporty, looking less awkward than other coupe-like SUVs.
The SQ5 Sportback isn't as raucous or batty as some other performance SUVs, but it won't leave you bored. We like its comfortable freeway manners, nimble handling and punchy engine. This turbocharged V6 sounds good too. Some details, though — such as its fake exhausts — disappoint. And the disconnected steering feel and low limits for the tires hold it back from being a real joy.
The SQ5 Sportback isn't as raucous or batty as some other performance SUVs, but it won't leave you bored. We like its comfortable freeway manners, nimble handling and punchy engine. This turbocharged V6 sounds good too. Some details, though — such as its fake exhausts — disappoint. And the disconnected steering feel and low limits for the tires hold it back from being a real joy.
Which SQ5 Sportback does Edmunds recommend?
The base SQ5 Sportback is already plenty luxurious, but spring for the midlevel Premium Plus trim and that feeling is enhanced with a synthetic leather center console and extras from the included Convenience package like a heated steering wheel and smart keyless entry. It also comes standard with advanced driver aids that you can't get on the Premium trim like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance.
Audi SQ5 Sportback models
The 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback small luxury SUV comes in one of three styles: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. Under the hood is a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine (349 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque) connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive comes standard on all versions. Feature highlights include:
Premium
This base trim comes pretty well equipped with:
- LED headlights
- 20-inch wheels
- Adaptive suspension system (can enhance ride comfort and performance)
- 10.1-inch center touchscreen
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration
- Three-zone automatic climate control
- Leather seating
- Power-adjustable, heated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Carbon-fiber interior trim
- Power liftgate
Standard driver assist features on every SQ5 Sportback includes:
- Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (notifies the driver if a vehicle is lurking in a blind spot or if rear cross-traffic is approaching when in reverse)
- Front and rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front or behind the vehicle when parking)
Optional for the Premium is the Convenience package that includes:
- Heated steering wheel
- Keyless proximity entry
- Driver's seat memory settings
Premium Plus
This trim elevates the SQ5 Sportback with the features of the Convenience package plus:
- Synthetic leather center console and armrests
- Configurable digital instrument panel
- Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
- Surround-view camera (gives you a top-down view of the SQ5 Sportback and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the vehicle and the car in front)
Prestige
The top-line SQ5 Sportback includes even more features such as:
- Dual-pane acoustic front side windows
- Head-up display
- Navigation system
- Heated second-row seats
- Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system
- Traffic sign recognition
Other notable optional features include:
- Black Optic package
- Black exterior trim
- Different wheels with summer tires
- Warm Weather package
- Ventilated front seats
- Manual rear window sunshades
- S Sport package
- Adaptive air suspension system (can adjust the vehicle's ride height)
- Sport rear differential (can enhance the SQ5 Sportback's handling agility)
- Premium Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Upgraded leather upholstery

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Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback.
Helpful shopping links
2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback Features Specs
Premium
Total MSRP | $60,395 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $254/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 24.7 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Compare the Audi SQ5 Sportback
Compare selected vehiclesCompare Audi SQ5 Sportback to any vehicle See full list of Small performance SUVs rankings
Audi SQ5 Sportback vs. BMW X4
The X4 and the SQ5 Sportback have a lot in common. Both are swoopy variants of existing SUVs. In M40i trim, the X4 packs a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that makes more power than the SQ5 but the same amount of torque. Both will be tight on headroom due to their sloping rooflines, but the SQ5 might feel slightly less cramped with its 2.5 inches of extra rear legroom.
Audi SQ5 Sportback vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupe
The GLC Coupe is another compact luxury fastback SUV, and it follows a similar formula to the SQ5 Sportback. In AMG GLC 43 guise, the Mercedes is powered by a turbocharged inline-six, which makes more power and torque than the Audi. It also gets a few advanced driver assist features that are extra on the SQ5 standard, including adaptive cruise control. The GLC 43 Coupe, though, starts a few thousand more.
Audi SQ5 Sportback vs. Porsche Macan
The Porsche Macan is one of the best-handling and most engaging SUVs on the market. It carves corners like a vehicle half its size and has steering feel that's second to none in its class. With all that said, there's some room for improvement. Its infotainment screen is about a generation behind the competition, and its cargo area is small even compared to vehicles with more dramatically raked rooflines.

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Safety
Our experts’ favorite SQ5 Sportback safety features:
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Uses the adaptive cruise control and lane centering system to provide assisted driving at speeds up to 40 mph.
- Audi Side Assist
- Notifies the driver if a vehicle is lurking in a blind spot or if rear cross-traffic is approaching when in reverse.
- Audi Parking System Plus
- Helps the SQ5 Sportback park by sounding an alert when it approaches an object in front of or behind the vehicle.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
---|---|
Overall | Not Rated |
Driver | Not Rated |
Passenger | Not Rated |
Side Crash Rating | Rating |
Overall | Not Rated |
Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
Overall | Not Rated |
Driver | Not Rated |
Passenger | Not Rated |
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
Front Seat | Not Rated |
Back Seat | Not Rated |
Rollover | Rating |
Rollover | 4 / 5 |
Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
Risk Of Rollover | 16.3% |
FAQ
Is the Audi SQ5 Sportback a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2022 SQ5 Sportback both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.8 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the SQ5 Sportback has 24.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Audi SQ5 Sportback. Learn more
What's new in the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback:
- Carbon-fiber interior trim now comes standard
- Part of the first Q5 Sportback generation introduced in 2021
Is the Audi SQ5 Sportback reliable?
To determine whether the Audi SQ5 Sportback is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the SQ5 Sportback. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the SQ5 Sportback's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2022 SQ5 Sportback and gave it a 7.8 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2022 SQ5 Sportback is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback?
The least-expensive 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback is the 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $59,200.
Other versions include:
- Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $59,200
- Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $62,400
- Prestige 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $67,600
What are the different models of Audi SQ5 Sportback?
If you're interested in the Audi SQ5 Sportback, the next question is, which SQ5 Sportback model is right for you? SQ5 Sportback variants include Premium 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), and Prestige 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of SQ5 Sportback models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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