Among German car manufacturers, Audi is alone in offering a high-performance version of its compact crossover. What starts out as the Q5 becomes the SQ5 which, naturally retains the Q5's basic look but augments it with larger wheels and subtle body add-ons.
But the big difference is under the SQ5's hood, where there resides an uprated version of a 3.0L supercharged V6 shared with the standard Q5. Here, it gains a notable 82 hp and 53 lb-ft of torque, for totals of 354 hp and 347 lb-ft.
That makes it most powerful among compact upscale crossovers, but not the most powerful: that title goes to the tiny Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG, which squeezes its 2.0L four-cylinder for an impressive 375 hp.
Like its Q5 siblings, the SQ5 gets an eight-speed automatic transmission and, predictably, Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system..
Fuel consumption ratings haven't yet been set for 2017, but the mechanically-identical 2016 model's estimates are 14.1/9.9 L/100 km (city/highway).
Standard exterior features in the base Progressiv model include 20-inch wheels and tires, aluminum-look roof rails, LED taillights, high-gloss window and grille surround, bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, fog lights, headlight washers and heated power-folding side mirrors.
Inside, the SQ5 comes equipped with a storage package, Nappa leather-upholstered sport seats with power adjustment and driver lumbar and memory, panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker stereo with satellite radio, brushed aluminum inlays, three-zone automatic climate control, LED lighting, Audi music interface, flat-bottom steering wheel, 60/40 split folding rear seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and Bluetooth. Convenience items include intelligent keyless entry with push-button start, power tailgate, Audi drive select and heated front seats.
Safety equipment comprises rear parking sensors, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers.
Mid-range Technik trim adds a garage door opener, Audi side assist, adaptive headlights with cornering function and heated rear seats.
The top-end Dynamic Edition adds 21-inch wheels with performance tires, navigation, Bang & Olufsen stereo, diamond seat stitching, red brake calipers, backup camera, speech dialog system, black exterior trim, carbon atlas interior inlays, front and rear parking sensors and a DVD player.
SQ5 pricing starts at $58,500 for the Progressiv model, $60,700 in Technik trim and $64,900 for the Dynamic model.
Progressiv and Technik trims can be optioned with navigation, front and rear parking sensors, DVD player and a backup camera for $2,800.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
