The 2020 Audi SQ5 hits a sweet spot between daily-driver practicality and genuine performance—something most compact luxury SUVs struggle to deliver. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 pumps out 349 horsepower, pushing this crossover to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds[1]. But here's the catch: some owners have reported significant engine issues before hitting 25,000 miles, and fuel economy sits at a thirsty 20 mpg combined[2].
The compact performance SUV segment has exploded over the past decade, and buyers cross-shopping the SQ5 are typically looking at the BMW X3 M40i and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. What makes the 2020 SQ5 interesting is its positioning—Audi positioned it as the middle ground between the standard Q5 and the more extreme RS Q5 found in European markets. For around $55,000 when new, buyers got genuine sports car acceleration wrapped in a family-friendly package[3].
| Category | 2020 Audi SQ5 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged V6[4] |
| Horsepower | 349 hp @ 5,400 rpm[4] |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 1,370 rpm[4] |
| 0-60 mph | 5.1 seconds[1] |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (electronically limited)[1] |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic automatic[1] |
| Drivetrain | Quattro all-wheel drive[1] |
| Fuel Economy | 18 city / 23 highway / 20 combined mpg[2] |
| Towing Capacity | 4,400 lbs[1] |
| Fuel Type | Premium required[1] |
That 369 lb-ft of torque hits at just 1,370 rpm[4]. What does that mean in the real world? Instant shove when you mash the throttle from a highway on-ramp. The power delivery feels linear and predictable—none of that turbo lag that plagued earlier forced-induction engines.
The 8-speed Tiptronic shifts quickly in Sport mode, though it occasionally hunts for gears in relaxed driving. Here's the thing: the SQ5 doesn't pretend to be a track weapon. It's tuned for confident highway passes and spirited weekend drives. The quattro system sends power rearward when you push hard, giving the rear end a slight rotation through corners that makes the SUV feel smaller than it is.
What surprised me during testing was how composed it stayed over broken pavement. The adaptive dampers (part of the S Sport package) dial back harshness without turning the ride into a floaty mess. But if you're coming from a true sports sedan, the steering feels numb by comparison. That's the trade-off with performance SUVs—you gain ride height and practicality, you lose some steering feel.
Audi's interior game remains strong. The 2020 SQ5 gets a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit as standard equipment—a configurable digital gauge cluster that can display navigation maps, performance metrics, or a traditional speedometer layout[5]. The MMI infotainment system responds quickly, though the learning curve for new owners can be steep.
Material quality inside punches above the price point. Soft-touch surfaces cover most areas your hands contact, and the Nappa leather seats in Premium Plus trim feel genuinely luxurious. Rear seat space is adequate for adults—not cavernous, but workable for road trips under four hours. The 25.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats expands to 53.1 with them folded.
The catch? Audi's option packages add up fast. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto came standard in 2020, but features like a Bang & Olufsen sound system, heated rear seats, and a head-up display all require extra cash[5]. A well-equipped SQ5 could easily push past $65,000 when new.
The 2020 SQ5 earns solid marks from both major safety organizations. IIHS rated the Q5 platform "Good" across all crashworthiness tests, with its front crash prevention system earning a "Superior" rating[6]. Audi's Pre Sense City—standard on the SQ5—avoided a collision entirely in the 25 mph test and nearly avoided one at 12 mph[6].
Standard safety tech includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. Lane-keeping assist is available but not standard—an odd omission at this price point.
Here's where things get complicated. And honestly, this might be the dealbreaker for some buyers.
Multiple owners have reported significant engine problems within the first 25,000 miles. One Edmunds reviewer documented head gasket failure and timing chain housing issues at just 22,000 miles—major repairs that required five weeks in the shop[7]. Everything was covered under warranty, but that's still a rough experience for a vehicle costing over $50,000.
Other owners have reported electronic system failures causing complete instrument cluster shutdowns, including airbag warning lights[7]. Fair warning: if you're considering a used 2020 SQ5, get a pre-purchase inspection from an Audi-certified mechanic and verify warranty coverage. For more context on which years to be cautious about, check out our guide on Audi Q5 years to avoid.
That said, plenty of owners report trouble-free experiences. The turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 has been in Audi's lineup for years and is generally considered robust when properly maintained. Audi vehicles can last well beyond 150,000 miles with diligent service—just don't skip those oil changes or use anything less than the specified full synthetic.
Budget for premium fuel. Always. Running regular gas through this engine will reduce performance and could potentially cause knock. At 20 mpg combined and premium prices, expect to spend roughly $2,200-$2,500 annually on fuel for average driving[2].
Scheduled maintenance follows Audi's standard intervals—roughly $200-400 for minor services and $600-900 for major ones at dealership rates. Independent shops specializing in German vehicles typically charge 20-30% less. Tires are the hidden expense: the SQ5's 21-inch optional wheels look great but wear expensive rubber that needs replacement every 25,000-35,000 miles.
| Model | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | MPG Combined | Starting MSRP (2020) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Audi SQ5 | 349 hp[4] | 5.1 sec[1] | 20 mpg[2] | ~$55,000 |
| BMW X3 M40i | 382 hp | 4.4 sec | 21 mpg | ~$56,000 |
| Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 | 385 hp | 4.7 sec | 20 mpg | ~$58,000 |
| Genesis GV70 3.5T | 375 hp | 4.8 sec | 21 mpg | ~$52,000 |
The BMW X3 M40i undercuts the SQ5 on straight-line speed and offers slightly better fuel economy. The Genesis GV70 delivers more power for less money—plus a longer warranty. But Audi's interior quality and quattro's foul-weather capability remain competitive advantages.
Pros:
Cons:
The 2020 Audi SQ5 gets the fundamentals right. It's quick, comfortable, well-built, and genuinely useful as a dailThe 2020 Audi SQ5 gets the fundamentals right. It's quick, comfortable, well-built, and genuinely useful as a daily driver. If you prioritize interior quality and all-weather confidence over raw speed numbers, it makes a strong case for itself.
But the reliability reports give pause. Before buying a used example, verify the maintenance history thoroughly and budget for a comprehensive inspection. (Full disclosure: I'd want any 2020 SQ5 with over 20,000 miles inspected by an independent Audi specialist, not just a general mechanic.)
For those interested in newer model years with updated features, see 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.
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