AUDI Q5 and SQ5: Difference Inside

Audi presented a new generation of its bestseller – the Q5 crossover and its sports version SQ5, which is almost identical in appearance but technically closer to the race track. The novelties are expected at Indy car dealership’s car lot at the beginning of 2025.

The AUDI Q5 has been one of the most popular cars in the mid-size crossover segment and the permanent competitor to the BMW X3 for over fifteen years. The new generation of the Q5 has become even more modern and dynamic while retaining the signature exterior minimalism and luxurious equipment.

All-new platform

The Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) is a very flexible platform that allows for the launch of a wide variety of models with unique characteristics into mass production, both petrol and diesel, as well as hybrids, including PHEV and MHEV, and EVR (a hybrid without a direct connection between the internal combustion engine and the wheels). In addition, the platform integrates the most modern control architectures, with maximum use of digitalization both at the production stage and during operation or service.

Innovative design

The third generation of Q5, as the manufacturer assures, has become radically more comfortable. The new spacious interior includes fully adjustable second-row seats, which move forward and backward. The backrest angle is regulated to increase the trunk volume or comfort for rear passengers. With the rear seats folded, the cargo compartment volume increases to 52 cubic feet. The curtain covering the luggage can be hidden in a specially designated place under the floor.

Audi designers boast that the new Q5 demonstrates ideal proportions and looks impressive. The leading line connects the front and rear lights, visually lengthening the car. The front part looks more confident because all the elements are raised compared to the previous generation. The Singleframe radiator grille, framed by vertical air intakes, and the aggressive pattern of the headlights stand out. The rear part has a clear and simple design due to the maximum reduction in the parts and lines. According to the designers, the space between the LED strip and the bumper emphasizes the sporty elegance of the crossover. 

At the same time, the car experts from the Indy Auto Man dealership claim it is almost impossible to find any striking differences between the exterior of the Audi Q5 and the sports version of the SQ5. The sports package looks more modest, contrary to accepted traditions, standing out only in its bright blue color. Another matter is the technology.

Comparing engines

The power range of the Q5 is represented by three engines, with the prospect of expansion in the future. At the start of sales, all models will be equipped with MHEV plus technology, which provides, thanks to an electric motor generator, additional power of up to 25 hp. The base engine will be a 2.0 TFSI with a capacity of 204 hp and a maximum torque of 250 lb-ft. However, the Audi SQ5 will receive a V6 TFSI with a displacement of 3 liters, a capacity of 362 hp, and a maximum torque of 405 lb-ft.

In addition, the Q5 is equipped with a coil spring suspension, and the SQ5 uses a standard suspension with frequency-selective damping (FSD), which combines the advantages of a sport and comfort shock absorber in one shock absorber, automatically adjusting the stiffness depending on driving conditions. This technology is not new and consists of a special valve that reduces the fluid flow in the shock absorber under high loads, allowing you to effectively respond to various road conditions.

New Audi Q5 prices

Prices will be revealed later this year, with Audi anticipating that deliveries of the third-generation Q5 and SQ5 will commence in early 2025. The Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims will be available in base, S Line, and SQ5 configurations. European pricing isn’t directly comparable due to the mild-hybrid system in those models. Therefore, the experts expect the 2025 Q5 to start at a lower price than the current $59,000 Q5 Quattro in Europe, based on current exchange rates. This expectation also applies to the SQ5, priced at 82,000 euros, or roughly $90,000.