Audi's redesigned 2025 SQ5 delivers 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque—a 13-hp and 37-lb-ft bump over the outgoing model—good for a claimed 4.6-second sprint to 60 mph[1]. The new "Digital Stage" cabin with its curved 14.5-inch touchscreen and standard air suspension across all SQ5 trims elevate the ownership experience[2]. But here's the catch: MotorTrend called the SQ5 "about two seconds behind the commands of its driver," noting it lacks the visceral engagement that enthusiasts crave[2]. At $64,800 to start, this is a supremely competent SUV—just don't expect it to set your pulse racing[3].
The compact luxury performance SUV segment keeps getting more crowded. Buyers cross-shopping the 2025 SQ5 typically consider the BMW X3 M40i, Porsche Macan, and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. Audi's bestselling nameplate since 2009 needed a refresh, and the third-generation Q5/SQ5 (internally called B10) builds on the Premium Platform Combustion architecture—distinct from Audi's EV-focused PPE platform[2].
What makes this redesign interesting is Audi's approach: evolution over revolution. Exterior dimensions barely change, but the powertrain gets a significant boost, and that new Digital Stage cockpit looks genuinely futuristic. The real question? Whether these upgrades justify a price increase of roughly $6,000 over the outgoing model.
| Category | 2025 Audi SQ5 |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged V6[1] |
| Horsepower | 362 hp @ 6,300 rpm[1] |
| Torque | 406 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm[1] |
| 0-60 mph | 4.6 seconds (mfr est.)[2] |
| Transmission | 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch[4] |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD[4] |
| Fuel Economy | 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined mpg (est.)[2] |
| Wheelbase | 111.0 inches[2] |
| Curb Weight | 4,250-4,500 lbs[2] |
| Base MSRP | $64,800 (+ $1,295 destination)[3] |
| SQ5 Sportback | $67,600 (+ $1,295 destination)[3] |
That 406 lb-ft of torque now arrives at 1,700 rpm—low enough for instant response when you mash the throttle[1]. Under the hood sits a revised 3.0-liter V6 with a twin-scroll turbocharger "nestled within the V," which Audi claims improves throttle response and power delivery[4]. Real-world translation? Getting off the line isn't a problem.
Launch control dumps the clutch hard, and quattro makes terrific traction[2]. One early owner compared it to "a combination of sports car and comfortable SUV"[5]. And honestly, that's accurate—the SQ5 can hustle when pushed. Edmunds praised its "nimble handling" and noted the summer tires "deliver more handling potential than you'd need for a public road"[6].
Here's what the spec sheet doesn't tell you: once underway, the V6 suffers from what MotorTrend called "a soft feel, both from slight turbo lag and a lack of top end oomph, which is compounded by the transmission's hesitancy to downshift into the powerband"[2]. The 7-speed S tronic is quick to upshift but reluctant to kick down when you want sudden acceleration. That two-second delay between throttle input and response? It's real.
The new Balanced mode—slotted between Comfort and Dynamic—actually hits the sweet spot for most driving[1]. There's also an Off-Road Plus mode that loosens stability control for gravel or snow. One owner tackled "4-5 inches of snow/ice… like a champ while other Tahoes were spinning out"[5]. The quattro system still earns its reputation.
Standard air suspension on every SQ5 is the big news. It adjusts ride height based on drive mode—lowering in Dynamic for better handling, raising in Off-Road for ground clearance[2]. Ride quality leans firm rather than plush on big bumps, but stays smooth over textured surfaces[2].
The so-called "Digital Stage" is what you notice first. An 11.9-inch gauge display and 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen curve toward the driver within a single enclosure[2]. On Prestige trim, a 10.9-inch passenger touchscreen replaces the blank plastic of lesser trims—letting your co-pilot navigate or control media without fighting for the center screen[2].
One early owner described sitting inside as feeling "like I'm in a spaceship"[5]. That's not hyperbole. The curved displays, ambient lighting, and updated materials create a cockpit that genuinely looks like 2025, not 2020 with a refresh. Edmunds praised the "luxurious but restrained interior design"[6].
Digital climate controls now live at the bottom of the touchscreen—a move that usually triggers complaints. But Audi's execution works: they're responsive, clear, and always visible[2]. The voice assistant recognizes over 800 commands, which serves as a workaround when you need both hands on the wheel[2].
Premium Plus trim adds the Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, panoramic sunroof, Top View camera, and Virtual Cockpit Plus with advanced navigation[7]. Prestige piles on Matrix-design LED headlights, OLED taillights, head-up display, and heated rear seats[7].
The catch? That Prestige passenger screen feels like a gimmick[2]. It duplicates everything the center screen does—nice for road trips, but most buyers won't use it after the novelty fades.
Cargo space grows slightly despite nearly identical exterior dimensions, plus larger door bins and center console storage[2]. Rear seat space remains competitive—though one longtime owner noted the Porsche Macan sacrifices cabin room for its engine/transmission layout, while "the Audi didn't sacrifice" that space[5].
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Key Additions |
|---|---|---|
| SQ5 Premium | $64,800[3] | 362-hp V6, air suspension, 11.9" digital cluster, 14.5" touchscreen, full safety suite |
| SQ5 Premium Plus | $71,000+ | Bang & Olufsen audio, panoramic roof, Top View camera, Virtual Cockpit Plus[7] |
| SQ5 Prestige | $75,000+ | Matrix LEDs, OLED taillights, head-up display, heated rear seats, passenger touchscreen[7] |
| SQ5 Sportback | $67,600[3] | Same powertrains, sloped roofline, reduced cargo space |
Quick reality check: a well-equipped Premium Plus or Prestige easily crests $75,000 with options. The SQ5 Sportback adds nearly $3,000 for the coupe-like roofline but actually reduces cargo space compared to the standard SQ5[8].
This is a full redesign, not a refresh. Key changes include:
| Model | HP | Torque | 0-60 mph | 2025 MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Audi SQ5 | 362[1] | 406 lb-ft[1] | 4.6 sec[2] | $64,800[3] |
| BMW X3 M40i | 382 | 398 lb-ft | 4.4 sec | ~$62,000 |
| Porsche Macan S | 375 | 383 lb-ft | 4.4 sec | ~$72,000 |
| Genesis GV70 3.5T | 375 | 391 lb-ft | 4.8 sec | ~$55,000 |
The BMW wins on raw acceleration and steering feel. The Porsche corners harder—one owner called the Macan "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"[5]. But the Macan also rides stiffer.
Where the SQ5 wins: rear seat space (especially versus the cramped GLC 43 and space-compromised Macan), infotainment quality, and ride comfort with the standard air suspension[5]. One detailed owner comparison found the SQ5's MMI system "significantly more intuitive, user friendly, sharp displays, and just all around better than the Porsche or Mercedes"[5].
Pros:
Cons:
The 2025 SQ5 does almost everything well. And that's precisely the problem—it doesn't do anything spectacularly. MotorTrend summed it up perfectly: "We still wish for more verve, especially in SQ5 guise, so that how it drives could be a reason to want it more"[2].
What you get is a supremely competent luxury SUV that accelerates quickly, handles confidently, rides comfortably, and wraps you in one of the best interiors in the segment. It's pragmatic excellence—the automotive equivalent of a well-tailored suit that fits perfectly but doesn't turn heads.
For those interested in comparing model years, check out our reviews of the 2024 SQ5 and 2023 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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