It has become the “done thing” for Audi to offer its customers a sportier and more powerful “S” version of just about every model they bring out. In 2021, the latest addition to the ranks of the S-series vehicles is the counterpart to the Q5 Sportback SUV, namely the Audi SQ5 Sportback. As it happens, the SQ5 is more than just an additional letter to a name. It’s a lot more vehicle, as well.
Added Power
The first thing many come to expect when they see an “S” in the Audi badging is additional power. The SQ5 Sportback does not disappoint in this regard. Compared to the 261-hp and 273 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with MHEV technology, the SQ5 delivers a very impressive 349-hp and 369 lb-ft. The SQ5 is packing a 3.0L 6-cylinder engine that helps the SQ5 sprint from 0-60 in just 4.7 seconds. The Q5 Sportback gets there in a still applaudable 5.7 seconds.
The added power of the SQ5 Sportback makes it a lot more capable for speedier driving. That additional power comes in hand when driving at speed on the highway, for instance. The SQ5 Sportback also gets an 8-speed automatic transmission paired with the powertrain, compared to a 7-speed on the Q5 Sportback. Both SQ5 and Q5 Sportback models ride on AWD drivetrains as standard.
Unique SQ5 Features
To help set the SQ5 Sportback apart from the regular Q5 Sportback, Audi has added some options that are exclusive to the SQ5. The first of these is an adaptive suspension system that automatically adjusts according to road conditions beneath the wheels. When that’s combined with the signature quattro AWD system from Audi, you get superlative handling and performance on just about any road surface.
If the adaptive suspension system isn’t quite enough for you, buyers of the SQ5 have the added option of purchasing the air suspension system that can actively raise or lower the vehicle’s height. If you go for the top-level Prestige trim, you can also take advantage of OLED headlights that are superior to the regular LED lights on the Q5 Sportback.
Premium Interiors
With the SQ5 Sportback, you get Audi’s typical premium interior marked by front sport seats, natural wood inlays made from Gray-Brown Birch, and a panoramic sunroof all as standard interior features. The central touchscreen measures 10.2 inches loaded with the new-and-improved MIB 3 infotainment system, which is more intuitive and user-friendly than preceding versions.
One popular interior upgrade is the move to get the all-new second-generation Audi Virtual Cockpit that features an incredible 12.3” flawless HD display. Another upgrade for those with a playlist obsession is the 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D sound.
Both the Q5 and SQ5 Sportback models do sacrifice a little cargo space in order to keep their sportier form. It’s not a dramatic difference though. The regular Q5 gets 25.9 cubic feet compared to just 24.7 cubic feet in the SQ5 Sportback. That augments to 51.9 cubic feet when you lower the rear seats, but that’s still lower than the larger 54 cubic feet of space you get in the regular Q5.
Fully Loaded with Technology
Besides the optional digital instrument cluster, large infotainment screen and premium sound system, the SQ5 has a lot to offer technologically. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) come as standard, including Audi Side Assist, which provides drivers with blind spot monitoring at speeds over 9-mph. The package also includes “pre sense rear” which uses radar to detect when there might be a rear-end collision and take preventative measures.
There’s also Lane Departure Warning, which warns you when you’re straying from the lane you should be in at speeds over 40-mph. Additional standard ADAS features include parking sensors and rear cross-traffic alert, which help make parking and reversing in the road both safer and easier.
On the Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels, you also gain access to additional options including adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and the top view camera system that creates a 360-degree view of the SQ5’s surroundings projected onto the MMI touchscreen.
Is it Worth “Going S”?
There’s a lot of additional cost to switching to the SQ5 Sportback, especially when you consider that you’ve already added cost to get the Sportback in the first place compared to the regular Q5 SUV model. With the added power, premium interiors and additional features, however, it’s clear that you do get quite a lot of bang for your buck.
The SQ5 Sportback is fun to drive on the road, and the more athletic curve of the roof does add an extra “head-turning” aspect that’s impossible to deny. If you’re in the market for a really “Premium+” Audi experience, then the SQ5 Sportback is a good way to go.
