2025 Audi SQ5 Review: The Perfect Blend of Power, Comfort, and Everyday Usability

The mid-size SUV market is fiercely competitive, with every automaker striving to build a vehicle that balances performance, luxury, and practicality. While the standard Audi Q5 may have fallen short of expectations in this latest generation, the 2025 Audi SQ5 delivers a surprisingly strong performance, breathing life back into Audi’s S-badged portfolio.

Armed with a 362bhp 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, adaptive air suspension, and smart tech integration, the Audi SQ5 manages to blend sports car capability with premium SUV comfort—making it one of the most well-rounded fast Audis in recent years.

A Performance SUV That Actually Performs

Let’s begin with what matters most: the engine and drivetrain. The SQ5 now ditches diesel for a lively petrol-powered 3.0-litre V6, producing 362bhp and 406 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to launch this all-wheel-drive SUV from 0-62mph in under 5 seconds, making it quicker than many sports sedans.

The V6 doesn’t just deliver numbers—it brings character. Start-up growls are prominent, and in Dynamic mode, the exhaust emits subtle crackles that add a layer of drama. Power delivery is linear and torque-rich, making the SQ5 easy to drive fast without needing to wring it out to redline.

While it’s no manual purist’s dream—the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission works better in automatic—gear changes are fast and mostly seamless. There’s also a mild hybrid system for smoother stop-start operation and increased fuel efficiency in urban conditions.

Ride and Handling: Where the SQ5 Shines

The true star of the 2025 SQ5 is its adaptive air suspension, which transforms the ride quality into something genuinely luxurious—without sacrificing agility. It’s comfortable in every driving mode, ironing out road imperfections while offering enough damping and body control for confident cornering.

Sure, it’s not the most thrilling SUV through tight B-roads, but it has a Volkswagen Golf GTI-like balance that’s fun, predictable, and planted. There’s just enough feel through the steering to make it engaging, particularly in Dynamic mode, where feedback improves, and the suspension tightens up for sportier handling.

Steering is light but accurate, and the chassis improvements help deliver a refined and enjoyable driving experience. It doesn’t try to be a Porsche Macan GTS, and it doesn’t need to—it excels as a daily-friendly performance SUV.

Exterior Design: Sporty Sophistication

The SQ5 doesn’t scream aggression, and that’s exactly why it works. Audi has applied a subtle yet classy makeover to the Q5’s bodywork. The signature Singleframe grille, quad exhaust outlets, red brake calipers, and 21-inch wheels mark it out as something special.

There’s also a Sportback version for those wanting a coupe-style silhouette, though practicality remains nearly identical between the two. The SQ5 Sportback might be more of a niche in the UK, but it offers visual distinction for those who want more style than space.

The return of the Audi Sport red badge on the rear is another small but meaningful nod to the model’s heritage—a detail enthusiasts will appreciate.

Interior: Comfortable but Not Cutting-Edge

Step inside the SQ5 and you’re greeted with a well-equipped, modern cabin that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The sports seats are trimmed in fine Nappa leather with diamond stitching, offering heating, ventilation, and massage functions. They're easily one of the best features in the cabin—supportive during cornering yet plush for long journeys.

The 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit and 14.5-inch touchscreen dominate the dash, joined by an additional passenger display. The UI is intuitive, but some basic functions like climate control are buried in menus, which can be frustrating.

Material quality is good but not class-leading. There are touches like Dinamica microfiber trim that elevate the aesthetic, but cheap-feeling gear paddles and some questionable button placements (fog light switches by the window controls, for example) detract from the otherwise premium ambiance.

Technology & Features: Well-Equipped with One Major Flaw

The SQ5 comes fully loaded. Standard features include:

• Matrix LED headlights
• OLED rear lights
• Panoramic sunroof
• Digital displays across the dashboard
• Heated rear seats
• All-around parking sensors and cameras

Audi’s MMI infotainment system is fluid, and wireless Apple CarPlay is onboard as expected. However, active safety systems leave much to be desired—particularly the lane-keeping assist, which defaults to "on" and often misinterprets UK road markings, creating an annoying and potentially dangerous driving experience.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

With a 3.0L turbocharged engine, the SQ5 was never going to be a fuel-sipper. Yet, it performs surprisingly well for its class, returning up to 32mpg in real-world testing and offering a range of over 400 miles per tank. This makes it more livable than many competitors in the performance SUV segment.

At a starting price of around £75,000, it’s certainly not cheap. But when compared to similarly specced models like the BMW M340i Touring or performance hybrids, the SQ5 remains competitive—especially when considering its extensive standard equipment.

Final Verdict: The Unexpected Hero of Audi's S-Line

The 2025 Audi SQ5 is not perfect. It could use sharper driving dynamics, better cabin materials, and a more refined safety tech suite. But taken as a whole, it’s a remarkably well-rounded package that surprises in the best ways.

It’s fast, comfortable, stylish, and genuinely fun to drive—without being overwhelming or fatiguing. Audi has struck a balance that makes this the ideal performance SUV for real-world driving. If you're looking for a fast, practical, and sophisticated SUV that doesn’t shout about its abilities but delivers them confidently, the SQ5 might be the sweet spot you've been waiting for.

For more in-depth car reviews, performance shootouts, and luxury vehicle comparisons, visit www.nestfact.com and explore the road ahead.

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