
Third generation Audi SQ5
The third-generation SQ5 was released midway through 2025. The updated SUV gains bold new body styling, a performance increase from the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, and updated technology throughout the vehicle.
The powertrain mostly stays the same as the last generation but gets a boost to 362 horsepower, delivered to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro® all-wheel-drive system. The updated SQ5 also gets a newly retuned sport suspension for spirited driving. There are drive modes that adjust the SQ5's personality, and you will be quite comfortable until you select the Dynamic driving mode, which stiffens up the suspension for serious cornering.
The new generation also includes wireless Apple CarPlay®, which gets full-screen access to the 14.5-inch touchscreen. That makes navigation maps and any other displays large enough to be easy to use. There's also an available passenger-side display for video streaming and gaming.
Model highlights
Five-seat compact SUV
Turbocharged V6 engine
Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with all-wheel drive
Adjustable driving modes
Large 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment
Second generation Audi SQ5
For the second generation of the Audi SQ5, the original supercharged V6 engine was replaced by a new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 354 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with Audi's Quattro® all-wheel-drive system as standard equipment. The SQ5 also comes with a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes compared to the standard Q5.
Inside, the second-generation SQ5 continued Audi's sport-luxury tradition with its S models. The seats are comfortable but well bolstered to hold the driver and front passenger in place during cornering. Even a little light off-roading is possible, given that the SQ5 drive modes include both off-road and Allroad settings. One feature to note is the available air-ride suspension, which allows the driver to select a firm or comfortable suspension response.
Model highlights
Two-row compact SUV
Turbocharged V6 engine
Automatic transmission with all-wheel drive
Available air-ride suspension
Off-road driving modes
First generation Audi SQ5
The Audi SQ5 debuted in 2014 to rave reviews for its performance. The SQ5 boasted a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine offering 354 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro® all-wheel-drive system. The SQ5 also benefits from a performance-tuned suspension and improved brakes compared to the standard Q5.
Inside, there's seating for five passengers in two rows. Audi is known for its sport-luxury interiors, and the SQ5 offers comfort and luxury as well as sporty touches and good bolstering in the front seats. You also get a flat-bottom steering wheel, synthetic suede trim, and various aluminum trim pieces around the cabin.
Model highlights
Compact two-row SUV
Supercharged V6 engine
Automatic transmission with all-wheel drive
Sport-tuned suspension
Seating for five passengers
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2026 - present
2026 Audi SQ5
Highlights
First full year for third-generation SQ5
Revised infotainment interface
Scroll controls on steering wheel
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Previous generation from 2018 - 2025
2025 Audi SQ5
2024 Audi SQ5
2023 Audi SQ5

Highlights
Adaptive cruise control became standard
Premium Plus trim got a Bang & Olufsen® audio system
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2022 Audi SQ5

2021 Audi SQ5

Highlights
Midcycle refresh updated the exterior styling
Updated infotainment system
Wireless smartphone integration and automated toll payment added
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2020 Audi SQ5

2019 Audi SQ5

2018 Audi SQ5

Previous generation from 2014 - 2017
2017 Audi SQ5

Highlights
Final year for the first-generation SQ5
Prestige trim gained adaptive cruise control and enhanced steering
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2016 Audi SQ5
2015 Audi SQ5
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Reliability
RepairPal gave the Audi SQ5 an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Audi SQ5 23rd out of 29 among Luxury Midsize SUVs.
RepairPal reports that the average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Audi SQ5 is $949, compared to an average of $642 for Luxury Midsize SUVs and $591 for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
According to RepairPal, Audi SQ5 owners bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 1.1 times per year, compared to an average of 1.4 times for Luxury Midsize SUVs and 1.3 times for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
RepairPal reported that the probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 21% for the Audi SQ5, compared to an average of 13% for Luxury Midsize SUVs and 14% for all the vehicles RepairPal considered in its dataset.
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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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