You may also like:
Audi’s 2022 SQ5 threads the needle between sports car thrills and family-hauler practicality better than most competitors—the 349-hp turbocharged V6 launches to 60 mph in about 5 seconds while the optional air suspension smooths out rough roads[1]. Edmunds praised it as “a combination of sports car and comfortable SUV, very adaptable to all different driving needs”[2]. The catch? Some owners have reported significant engine problems before 25,000 miles, and 20 mpg combined means frequent fill-ups with premium fuel[3].
Why This Review Matters
The compact luxury performance SUV segment has become fiercely competitive. Buyers cross-shopping the 2022 SQ5 typically consider the BMW X3 M40i, Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, and Porsche Macan. What makes the SQ5 interesting is its positioning—performance that satisfies enthusiasts wrapped in a body that works for school drop-offs and grocery runs.
For around $54,500 when new, you got genuine muscle without the impracticality of a sports sedan[4]. The 2022 model carried over mostly unchanged from 2021, though Audi shuffled some package content. Real question is: does this platform deliver enough to justify choosing it over the competition? Let’s dig in.
Key Specifications
| Category | 2022 Audi SQ5 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged V6[1] |
| Horsepower | 349 hp @ 5,400 rpm[1] |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 1,370-4,500 rpm[1] |
| 0-60 mph | ~5.0 seconds[3] |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (electronically limited)[3] |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic automatic[1] |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD with rear limited-slip differential[1] |
| Fuel Economy | 18 city / 24 highway / 20 combined mpg[4] |
| Towing Capacity | 4,409 lbs[3] |
| Curb Weight | 4,288 lbs[3] |
| Fuel Type | Premium required[1] |
Performance & Driving Dynamics
That 369 lb-ft of torque arrives at just 1,370 rpm[1]. In practical terms? Zero turbo lag. Stomp the throttle from a standing start and the V6 responds instantly—no hesitation, no waiting for boost to build. It’s the kind of power delivery that makes highway on-ramps genuinely fun.
Here’s what the spec sheet doesn’t tell you: the optional S Sport air suspension transforms this SUV’s personality. One owner described it perfectly—”The SQ5 with the sport air suspension allows the car to turn into a spirited driving machine, but also allows the comfort for a long road trip without feeling every bump”[2]. That flexibility separates it from the Porsche Macan, which corners harder but punishes you on potholed city streets.
The 8-speed Tiptronic responds sharply in Dynamic mode. Quick, decisive shifts. But switch to Comfort for highway cruising and it mellows out—relaxed, content to hold taller gears for better efficiency. Where it falls short? Steering feel. Compared to a Porsche or BMW, the SQ5’s wheel feels numb. You’ll know what the front tires are doing, but you won’t feel it through your fingertips. That’s the trade-off Audi made for a softer ride.
And the quattro system genuinely earns its reputation. One owner tackled “4-5 inches of snow/ice transitioning through N. Texas/N. Mexico like a champ while other Tahoes were spinning out”[2]. The rear limited-slip differential helps rotate the back end when you push hard through corners—subtle, but noticeable.
Interior & Technology
The 2022 SQ5’s cabin remains a class leader. Full stop. One owner compared it to “a spaceship”—and honestly, that’s not much of an exaggeration[2]. The 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit displays navigation with Google Earth photorealistic imagery, and the customizable layouts let you prioritize whatever information matters most. An owner called it “a absolute show-stopper… beautiful, intuitive, and a pure joy to use”[2].
Material quality punches above the $55,000 price point. Soft-touch surfaces cover most contact areas, and the quilted Nappa leather seats on higher trims feel genuinely luxurious. Front seat space is excellent. Rear passengers get adequate room—not cavernous, but comfortable for trips under four hours.
The MMI infotainment system includes a touchpad with handwriting recognition. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard[3]. But here’s the thing: Audi’s option packages stack up fast. Want the Bang & Olufsen sound system, surround-view camera, and adaptive cruise control? That’s extra[3]. A well-equipped Prestige trim easily crossed $65,000 when new.
One gripe from owners: the MMI system can be finicky. A Consumer Reports survey noted one owner experiencing frequent blank screens, pairing issues, and general connectivity problems[5]. Your mileage may vary—literally and figuratively.
Safety Ratings
IIHS rated the Q5 platform “Good” across all crashworthiness tests—small overlap front (both driver and passenger sides), moderate overlap, side impact, and roof strength[6]. The roof withstood 21,215 lbs of force before crushing five inches, giving it a strength-to-weight ratio of 5.16[6].
Front crash prevention earned a “Superior” rating with optional Audi Pre Sense Front (standard on Premium Plus and Prestige trims). In testing, the vehicle avoided a collision entirely at 25 mph and nearly avoided one at 12 mph[6]. Pedestrian detection earned an “Advanced” rating, successfully avoiding collisions with crossing children at 12 mph[6].
Headlights vary by trim—and this matters more than you’d think. The Prestige trim’s LED projectors earned a “Good” rating with visibility described as “good on both sides of the road” on straightaways[6]. But Premium and Premium Plus trims scored only “Acceptable” due to reduced visibility on left curves[6]. If you frequently drive dark country roads, factor this into your trim decision. For more context on Audi safety considerations, see our guide on Audi Q5 years to avoid.
The Reliability Question
No sugarcoating here: some owners have reported serious mechanical issues.
One Edmunds reviewer documented head gasket failure and timing chain housing problems at just 22,000 miles—”Car spent 5 weeks in the shop – all covered by warranty but 22k miles to have this level of engine work is less than ideal”[2]. Another owner experienced total electronic system failures three times within three drives, including complete instrument cluster shutdowns and airbag warnings[2]. (Audi corporate eventually replaced that vehicle entirely.)
Consumer Reports noted issues with MMI connectivity and infotainment glitches on the Q5 platform[5]. The Guide Auto Web gave the 2022 SQ5 a 7/10 reliability rating[3]—decent but not bulletproof.
That said, plenty of owners report trouble-free experiences. The turbocharged 3.0L V6 has been in Audi’s lineup for years and is generally robust when properly maintained. Audi vehicles can exceed 150,000 miles with diligent service—but don’t defer maintenance or use anything less than the specified full synthetic oil.
If buying used, get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection from an Audi specialist. Verify remaining warranty coverage. And check service records for any previous engine work.
Ownership Costs
Budget for premium fuel—always. Running regular gas can cause engine knock and reduced performance. At 20 mpg combined and current premium prices, expect roughly $2,400-$2,800 annually for average driving[4].
Tires are the hidden expense. One owner noted the SQ5 “loves to chew through P-zero sport tires. At $350+/tire… that is annoying”[2]. The 21-inch wheels look fantastic but wear expensive rubber that needs replacement every 25,000-35,000 miles. Stepping down to 20-inch wheels saves money long-term.
Scheduled maintenance follows Audi’s standard intervals—roughly $300-500 for minor services at dealership rates. Independent shops specializing in German vehicles typically charge 20-30% less. The 4-year/50,000-mile warranty provides some peace of mind for early ownership[3].
Competitors Compared
| Model | HP | 0-60 mph | MPG Combined | 2022 MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Audi SQ5 | 349[1] | ~5.0 sec[3] | 20[4] | ~$54,500 |
| BMW X3 M40i | 382 | 4.4 sec | 21 | ~$57,000 |
| Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 | 385 | 4.7 sec | 20 | ~$58,000 |
| Porsche Macan S | 348 | 4.6 sec | 20 | ~$60,000 |
The BMW edges out the SQ5 on raw power and straight-line speed. The Porsche handles sharper through corners—”the best cornering SUV or 4 door vehicle I’ve driven… the builders clearly thought out the suspension as though they were thinking about a 911″[2]. But the Mercedes? Multiple owners criticized its cramped rear seat—”my wife and I were very turned off by the back seat feeling like it was a literal after thought”[2]. The GLC 43’s 9-speed transmission also drew criticism for hunting between gears.
Where the SQ5 wins: interior technology, ride comfort with the air suspension, and all-weather confidence. The MMI system consistently outscored competitors in owner satisfaction for intuitive operation[2].
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The 349-hp V6 delivers 369 lb-ft of torque from just 1,370 rpm—instant throttle response for confident acceleration without turbo lag[1]
- Optional S Sport air suspension provides the rare combination of sporty handling and genuine long-distance comfort that the Porsche Macan can’t match[2]
- Virtual Cockpit with 12.3-inch configurable display and Google Earth navigation ranks among the best digital gauge clusters in any segment[2]
- Quattro AWD with rear limited-slip differential handles snow and ice confidently—owners report outperforming truck-based SUVs in winter conditions[2]
- IIHS “Good” crashworthiness ratings across all tests plus “Superior” front crash prevention on Premium Plus and Prestige trims[6]
Cons:
- Premium fuel required plus 20 mpg combined means annual fuel costs run 30-40% higher than efficient competitors[4]
- Some owners report significant engine issues—head gasket failures and electronic malfunctions documented before 25,000 miles[2]
- Sport tires on 21-inch wheels wear quickly at $350+ per tire, adding substantial ongoing ownership expense[2]
- Steering feel is muted compared to BMW X3 M40i and Porsche Macan, reducing the connected driving experience enthusiasts crave
- Premium and Premium Plus headlights only score “Acceptable” from IIHS—upgrade to Prestige for best night visibility[6]
Final Verdict
The 2022 SQ5 accomplishes what most performance SUVs struggle with: it’s genuinely quick when you want excitement and genuinely comfortable when you want relaxation. That adaptive air suspension is the secret weapon—dial it up for canyon carving, dial it down for highway cruising with the family. Interior quality remains best-in-class, and the Virtual Cockpit continues to embarrass competitors’ infotainment efforts.
But reliability concerns give pause. Before buying used, verify service history thoroughly and budget for a comprehensive inspection. (Full disclosure: I wouldn’t touch one with sketchy maintenance records regardless of the discount.)
- Choose the 2022 SQ5 if: You value Audi’s interior craftsmanship and technology leadership, want a comfortable daily driver that can still embarrass sports cars at stoplights, and plan to keep it under warranty or have access to a trusted Audi mechanic.
- Look elsewhere if: Long-term reliability tops your priority list, fuel economy matters to your budget, or you want the sharpest steering feel—the BMW X3 M40i and Porsche Macan S both offer stronger alternatives in those areas.
For those interested in comparing model years, check out our reviews of the 2021 SQ5 and 2024 SQ5. And if you’re exploring Audi’s broader SUV lineup, our best Audi SUV guide breaks down which models suit different needs.
FAQs
Is the 2022 Audi SQ5 reliable?
Reliability is mixed. The turbocharged 3.0L V6 has a generally solid reputation, but some owners report major issues like head gasket failures and electronic malfunctions before 25,000 miles[2]. The Guide Auto Web rated reliability 7 out of 10[3]. If buying used, a pre-purchase inspection by an Audi specialist is essential. Vehicles still under the original 4-year/50,000-mile warranty provide more peace of mind.
What’s the difference between the Audi Q5 and SQ5?
The SQ5 packs 349 horsepower versus the standard Q5’s 261 hp—an 88-hp advantage[1]. Beyond the upgraded engine, the SQ5 gets sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, quad exhaust tips, and visual upgrades including a unique grille and S-specific interior trim. The 0-60 sprint drops from around 5.7 seconds to approximately 5.0 seconds[3].
How does the 2022 SQ5 compare to the Porsche Macan?
The Macan corners sharper—one owner called it “the best cornering SUV or 4 door vehicle I’ve driven”[2]. But the SQ5 with air suspension rides more comfortably on rough roads, has a more spacious cabin, and offers superior infotainment technology. The Macan starts roughly $5,000 higher and sacrifices some interior space to accommodate its engine/transmission layout.
References
- Edmunds. (2024). Used 2022 Audi SQ5 Specs & Features. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/sq5/2022/features-specs/
- Edmunds. (2022). Used 2022 Audi SQ5 Consumer Reviews. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/sq5/2022/consumer-reviews/
- Guide Auto Web. (2022). 2022 Audi Q5 SQ5 Progressiv TFSI quattro Specifications. https://www.guideautoweb.com/en/makes/audi/q5/2022/specifications/sq5-progressiv-tfsi-quattro/
- Kelley Blue Book. (2024). 2022 Audi SQ5 Specs, Features & Options. https://www.kbb.com/audi/sq5/2022/specs/
- Consumer Reports. (2023). 2022 Audi Q5 Reliability. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/q5/2022/reliability/
- IIHS. (2022). 2022 Audi Q5 4-door SUV Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/q5-4-door-suv/2022
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
