Some say that the SQ lineup is separate from the standard Q5 squad. But, that is actually the high-end model with an enhanced powertrain and sportier appearance. The 2024 Audi SQ5 is available in the standard body style and Sportback, the coupe-SUV. Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige are the trim levels, while under the bonnet is a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine.
Every season brings some changes. It all depends on the standard Q5 lineup. The logical evolution would be turning internal combustion engines into electric batteries. The E-Tron concept spreads through the lineup very quickly. But, it will take some while until we see the SQ5 with an electric engine. In the meantime, this remains the most powerful version in the lineup.
2024 Audi SQ5 Specs, 0-60 mph
The 2024 Audi SQ5 is a sport-tuned SUV, so the gas mileage is not too important. The focus is on performance. A 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 delivers 349 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Well, this is not the most impressive output by Audi SUV. Still, for a compact luxury model, that is more than enough. The 0-60 time is under 5 seconds, and the Quattro AWD is standard. Engineers pair a V6 with an automatic transmission. The only version that will be able to beat this is the RS. But, it seems Audi is not after BMW X M with 500 hp. That is just too much power for a compact SUV.
All other models of the Q5 lineup are using a 2.0-liter engine. The turbo-four mill delivers 201 hp in the base form, or 261 horsepower if you select the Q5 45 TFSI. A plug-in hybrid joined the lineup. Numbers (362 hp and 369 lb-ft) could suggest that performance is at the same level as the 2024 Audi SQ5, but it is not the case on the road. Still, the E-Tron PHEV can use only electric batteries to cover 23 miles. The range could be extended for the 2024 YM and every next edition.
Grades and Options
The main reason why people consider the 2024 Audi SQ5 as a different model from the rest of the Q5 lineup is the availability of trim levels. Like other Audis, the sport SUV comes with Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige packages.
The base model comes with an impressive safety bundle that includes parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. Some of those options are available only as additional equipment for high-end grades on other luxury crossover SUVs. Plus, the Premium version is using 20-inch wheels, roof rails, a power liftgate, 3-zone climate control, paddle shifters, a carbon-fiber interior, heated seats… and a few more accents that will make an overall impression sportier and the ride cozier.
The Premium Plus builds up from there and adds the Convenience package with keyless entry, memory seat settings, and satellite radio. Then, there are a panoramic sunroof, B&O premium audio, and a 360-degree camera system as the special upgrades.
There is something left for the 2024 Audi SQ5 Prestige. Windows are isolated thanks to the dual panes. Premium leather, heated rear seats, heater and cooler for a cupholder and navigation are special upgrades. Plus, this grade features automated parking, traffic sign recognition, and the HUD. Optionally, you can purchase a full-leather interior, ventilated seats, or the S Sport package. This one adds adaptive suspension for a sportier ride, a sport rear differential, red brake calipers and variable steering.
2024 Audi SQ5 Sportback
Coupe SUVs are a kind of trademark for German carmakers. The 2024 Audi SQ5 Sportback offers all the same options as the standard lineup, only its appearance is more aggressive thanks to the sloped roofline. Of course, the BMW and Mercedes were also offering similar parallel models of their main compact crossovers. Well, the rear headroom is suffering, as well as the cargo space. But, it is all about looks and appearance. There are other models with the Sportback badge in the Audi lineup, so we are not surprised to see it as a member of the Q5 squad, although crossovers insist on practicality, rather than look. But, the SQ5 already shifts focus to the performance, and appearance is as important as the specs sheet.
2024 Audi SQ5 Pricing
The SQ5 is more expensive than other Q5s. The base version starts from $57,000. That is $11k above the standard model. The Sportback adds $2,500. Premium Plus package costs $4,500 for both body styles. The 2024 Audi SQ5 Prestige is $66,500 and the Sportback with the high-end package is $69,000. From significant optional bundles, there are the Black Optic for $600 and the S Sport for $3,000. So, a heavily loaded small SUV could hit $80,000.
