2023 Audi SQ5 Review

Name: 2023 Audi SQ5
Brand: Audi

Price Range: $35,962 - $48,999

Audi SQ5 Prestige 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

Good

7.7

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2023 SQ5's name suggests it's a sporty version of the Q5 on which it's based. It delivers on that suggestion, adding a large dose of driving enjoyment to an already desirable package. The combination makes this well-rounded, stylish and highly functional SUV an easy recommendation.

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Average price: $40,139

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Appraise My 2023 Audi SQ5

Pros

Impressively comfortable ride for a sport-tuned SUV
Generous space for passengers
Luxurious but restrained interior design
Nimble handling

Cons

Lower power output than some rivals
Not many visible cues that differentiate it from the standard Q5
Steering does not feel engaging in the default Comfort mode

What's new

Adaptive cruise control now standard
Premium Plus trim includes Bang & Olufsen sound system
Part of the second SQ5 generation introduced in 2018

Overview

Written by automotive expert Cameron Rogers

12/28/2022

The 2023 Audi SQ5 is the sport-oriented version of the automaker's Q5 compact crossover SUV. It could hold appeal if you want the convenience of a small SUV but with a little spice added in. Audi pairs a turbocharged V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission, adding 88 horsepower to the Q5 for a total of 349 hp. That's a little short of the 382 hp delivered by the BMW X3 M40i or the 434 hp unleashed by the Porsche Macan GTS, but it's still plenty quick. The SQ5 also receives stickier tires, larger wheels and a stiffer suspension to set itself apart from the Q5 in addition to the beefier engine.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

186 listings

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2023 Audi SQ5
Premium Plus 4dr SUV
$38,495
great price
$2,916 below market
- 36,316 miles
- 5 Seats, 19 City / 24 Hwy MPG
- 16 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Vienna, VA
Recent Arrival! 2023 Audi SQ5 Premium Plus quattro quattro Glacier White*** FINANCING IS AVAILABLE *** PREMIUM PLUS PACKAGE *** NAVIGATION PACKAGE *...
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (19 City/24 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WA1B4AFY4P2110087
Stock:
KTJP230670
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
05-04-2026
Certified 2023 Audi SQ5
Premium Plus 4dr SUV
$42,357
great price
$3,047 below market
- 37,596 miles
- 5 Seats, 19 City / 24 Hwy MPG
- 54 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Cockeysville, MD
The following items have been reconditioned on this vehicle: new brakes! Panoramic RoofLeather SeatsKeyless StartRear SpoilerThis vehicle inc...
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (19 City/24 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WA1B4AFY2P2169039
Stock:
P2169039
Certified Pre-Owned:
Yes
Listed since:
05-12-2026

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The refresh the SQ5 received in 2021 to its infotainment complements a refined interior, and the addition of standard adaptive cruise control for 2023 is welcome. Also in store for 2023, the Premium Plus trim level gains the Bang & Olufsen sound system that was previously only equipped to the top-level Prestige trim. Overall, we think the SQ5 is a solid pick. Check out our Expert Rating below for our test team's full evaluation.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

Driven, tested, rated by automotive expert Brent Romans

Good

7.7

out of 10

We drove the 2023 Audi SQ5 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the SQ5 drive? The SQ5 balances sporty and luxury attributes. It's a touch slower than its competition — our test car sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds — but the SQ5 is nonetheless smooth and satisfying. Stopping power is exemplary, and the brakes are predictable and easy to control around town.

True to the S part of its name, the SQ5 is nimble and enjoyable, offering welcome agility and control. Its summer tires deliver more handling potential than you'd need for a public road, and its stability control is less intrusive than the Q5's. The steering wheel has comfortable grips and lots of assistance in the Comfort setting, which makes for easy quick steering inputs, such as when you're in a small parking lot.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the SQ5? The interior delivers on the comfort you'd expect from a luxury SUV. The supportive seats and quiet ride mean you can drive all day. The side bolsters help keep you in place during cornering but aren't intrusive during the commute. Despite its sporty intentions, the SQ5 doesn't sacrifice anything when it comes to ride quality.

In the cabin, you don't hear much in the way of wind, tire or road noise. You can adjust the loudness of the engine, which in its most dynamic setting adds a low-rpm thrum under moderate acceleration. As for the climate control system, it's easy to adjust and get the air flow you want.

Interior

8.5/10

How’s the interior? The SQ5 earns high marks for interior functionality. The design is minimalist, yet the cabin layout and primary physical controls make sense. A wide range of seat and steering wheel adjustments make it easy for most drivers to find their ideal setting. The interior has generous interior measurements, and front and rear passengers have plenty of space.

The tall door openings make for good head clearance when getting in and out. The large windows and narrow roof pillars allow excellent outward visibility. Along with the outward view, the big sideview mirrors, crisp-looking rearview camera and proximity sensors take the guesswork out of parking.

Technology

7/10

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 available 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.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? The SQ5 offers 25.9 cubic feet of storage space behind the second row and 54 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, which is a bit less than average for this class of SUV. The decently sized door pockets and center console should accommodate most items. We like how the tray under the armrest slides back and forth, and it holds a phone or two.

With a 4,400-pound maximum tow rating, the SQ5's capability sits among the best of the segment. Models equipped with the air suspension have a trailer tow setting that activates automatically with the factory-installed hitch.

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the SQ5 will get 21 mpg combined, which is average compared to other sport-oriented small SUVs. Like many SUVs in this class, the SQ5 requires premium fuel.

Value

7.5/10

Is the SQ5 a good value? The SQ5 is a true standout when it comes to build quality. The interior continuously relays value to its occupants. The optional upgraded leather and stitching make this luxury vehicle feel like it's in another class entirely. The switches and interior controls have a satisfying click and weight. The price is reasonable and remains so even after adding the options you want. Warranty coverage from Audi is average.

Wildcard

7.5/10

An enjoyable and powerful engine combined with pleasing handling makes the SQ5 hard to fault. Its stability control system is less intrusive than the standard Q5's, and its turbocharged V6 engine generates entertaining thrust and sounds.

But aside from the badges and wheels, little says the SQ5 is special, especially from the outside. And no one should be OK with the embarrassing blocked-off fake exhaust ports on the rear bumper — especially Audi.

2023 Audi SQ5 trim level differences

The SQ5 is a sportier version of the Audi Q5 compact SUV and is offered in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The SQ5 is also available in an SQ5 Sportback version (which we review separately) that features a sloping rear roofline for a sleeker silhouette. Both are similarly equipped and are powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 349 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive is standard on all trims. Compare the 2023 Audi SQ5 trim levels in-depth.

Which SQ5 trim does Edmunds recommend?

There's a lot to like about the SQ5's base Premium trim level, but we recommend upgrading to the Premium Plus. It includes the Convenience package that you'd want anyway, then adds a few more safety systems and an absolutely rocking Bang & Olufsen audio system. It also opens the door to the SQ5's full list of optional extras, notably the Warm Weather package.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$276/mo

$220/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

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Reliability

The 2023 Audi SQ5 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, ranks it #23 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

3 out of 5 stars3/5Average

#23 out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$949/yr

vs. $602/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV

Frequency

1.13x/yr

vs. 1.09x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV

Severity

20.8%

vs. 9.4%
for Average Luxury Midsize SUV

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2023 Audi SQ5

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles

Audi SQ5 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.4

41 reviews

5(73%)

4(7%)

3(9%)

2(11%)

1(0%)

See all 41 reviews of the Audi SQ5

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Trending topics

BEST ALL AROUND PURPOSE CROSSOVER SUV

ARLE, 07/12/2018

2018 Audi SQ5 3.0T Prestige quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

I have never seen or driven a car like this before. I've owned BMW 3, 5, and 7 series, Porsche 911, and Mercedes SL 55 and a Honda Pilot. The SQ5 is a combination of all of them. Its rides very comfortably, very stable, and quiet, sporty and with a lot of power and torque. Its a get up and go car, great to drive anywhere in the city or country. I love the quality and the very …

SQ5 Was the Winner - Updated 25k miles

Kevin, 01/20/2019

2018 Audi SQ5 3.0T Prestige quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

Update at 25k miles: Still love the handling, and all things that made us originally get this vehicle but maintenance has been less than ideal. At 22k miles had a slight oil leak - turned out to be the head gasket which is major, and timing chain housing assembly (also major). Car spent 5 weeks in the shop - all covered by warranty but 22k miles to have this level of engine work is less … than ideal. Only other gripe about the car since original review is tires - it loves to chew through P-zero sport tires. At $350+/tire... that is annoying. Snow handling is great however with all seasons. Original Review: My wife and I needed an SUV and my BMW was looking at maintenance bills >60% of the value of the car and was well past warranty. I built a detailed spreadsheet that incorporated different weightings based on what we both liked across several vehicles we drove. We looked at Lexus and other brands as well, but they didn't meet the mission as we ran through our objectives and desires. The categories were the following: price, safety rating, estimated reliability, performance, fun factor, road trip comfort, technology/audio, road noise, storage / capacity, and fuel efficiency. It ultimately came down to the SQ5 and the Macan S, with the SQ5 being the most practical in the class in our view. The SQ5 with the sport air suspension allows the car to turn into a spirited driving machine, but also allows the comfort for a long road trip without feeling every bump which set it apart from the Macan in that class. Inversely, the Macan might be the best cornering SUV or 4 door vehicle I've driven... the builders clearly thought out the suspension as though they were thinking about a 911. The other category which the SQ5 truly stood out was the MMI technology package that was significantly more intuitive, user friendly, sharp displays, and just all around better than the Porsche or Mercedes. While the Porsche and Mercedes both 0-60 slightly faster than the Audi, in reality... how often is that really the deciding factor? Part of our mission included trips to CO, which we recently completed in the SQ5 and despite having sport tires, with the quattro system and rear limited slip dif, it tackled 4-5" of snow/ice transitioning N. Texas/ N. Mex like a champ while other Tahoe's were spinning out and not making the same progress... We are thrilled with our SQ5 so far - and no mx issues of yet to report. Separate from this review, both my wife and I were really trying and or expecting to like the GLC 43 AMG much more than we did... it was wholly underwhelming in all other categories with exception to performance. The 9-speed transmission in the GLC 43 AMG feels like a spastic middle-school aged boy whos had a few too many Mtn Dews for my liking as it always was trying to figure out what to do next. The PDK is a dream in the Porsche, however the Audi has an honest transmission that delights when pressed hard in Dynamic mode, but also isn't "begging" to go fast when you're looking for a more relaxed drive and perhaps on bluetooth. The Audi and Porsche both had great overall interiors and creature comforts, with the Audi being a small but noticeably more comfortable cabin with 4 people inside compared to the Porsche. Despite being on the same chassis, the Porsche's engine/transmission areas take space away from the cabin that the Audi didn't sacrifice. The Mercedes in the front was fine, had great interior lines/design... but my wife and I were very turned off by the back seat feeling like it was a literal after thought that would be dissapointing even for a non-lux midsize crossover let alone wear the badge of MB! Long story short - we are thrilled with our SQ5 and it surprised us because when we started we both thought it'd be a Porsche or Mercedes, but in the end... we were surprised by the complete package the Audi has assembled (and candidly... we are liking the subtlety of the Audi brand compared to the sometimes certain driver stereotypes of the other brands tested). Happy driving!

Best luxury SUV w/ perfect comfort/sport balance

Al, 10/25/2017

2018 Audi SQ5 3.0T Prestige quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

Very happy with choosing the 2018 Audi SQ5 prestige. Before buying, I compared it to the new F -Pace S, XC60 T8, 43 AMG, and upcoming redesigned X3 M40i. With Audi SQ5's standard adaptive dampers, you get the best comfort, but also great sportiness when desired. The volvo is for my taste too soft and floaty, while the others are too harsh for a daily driver even with adaptive dampers. …

A naughty SUV, in a little black dress!

NHHawk6, 06/22/2019

2019 Audi SQ5 3.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)

Allow yourself time to "experience" a proper introduction to the 2019 Audi SQ5. If you are pressed for time, then wait; if something else is on your mind, then reschedule your test drive. You will want to immerse yourself in this; you owe it to yourself. There is simply an awful lot to process, here. At first glance, it's a bit unsettling. The SQ5 is an unbelievably pretty vehicle. My … first walk-around took 25 minutes. As I approached, the profile is low-slung, via an electronically-controlled air suspension atop beautiful Pirelli-clad 21" wheels. Mythos black metallic paint, bright red brake calipers, and aluminum cross bars project a somewhat "formal" image of an otherwise athletic stance. I just stood and stared. This is one sexy car. Walking around to the front, the good looks become instantly married to an aggressive nose, and there is an unmistakable desire to pop the hood. The engine compartment is impressive; it's simple and clean. The 3.0L V6 fills the space, and almost seems to ask that you close the hood and just get inside, already! Continuing on to observe the Audi from the rear, you cannot help but be impressed. From the D-pillar aft, the SQ5 is simply perfect. Wide, low, and beautifully finished, which is great because this is the view most will see, as you ease past most, on any road you travel. The real show starts now, however, when you slip inside the most intoxicating interior in this, or really any, segment. The 2019 Audi SQ5 cockpit is decadent. The beauty and support of the quilted Nappa leather seats are unsurpassed. The Audi virtual cockpit, a Google Earth photorealistic navigation system, with customizable displays, is a absolute show-stopper! It is beautiful, intuitive, and a pure joy to use! The MMI-plus computer controls everything, via a central dial or an awesome touchpad with handwriting recognition. All information is displayed on a beautiful 7" screen centrally mounted on the dash. However, once you start the engine, and begin your test drive, the deal is all but done. This is a smooth and powerful sportscar in an SUVs skin. I have never driven an SUV, large or small, that was anything like this. It is not just fast; it is poised and confident at every turn, in every turn. It stops on a dime. The Bang & Olufsen sound system is crystal clear, and screams: "turn me up"! The car is dripping with technology, and everything just works! Allow yourself time to "experience" a proper introduction to the 2019 Audi SQ5. You owe it to yourself!

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Audi SQ5, so we've included reviews for other years of the SQ5 since its last redesign.

2023 SQ5 Features & Specs

Trim:

Premium

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$56,500
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	21 MPG
Cost to Drive	$276/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	25.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the SQ5 models:

Pre Sense City: Warns you when it detects the risk of an imminent crash. Can automatically apply the brakes at speeds under 52 mph.
Side Assist: Alerts the driver to vehicles in the SQ5's blind spot.
Rear Side Airbags: Deploys torso-protecting airbags from the outboard rear seats in case of a side-impact collision.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.3%

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