7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild

The new Audi SQ5 delivers V6 power, quattro grip, and hybrid tech, but does it excite? We break down performance, design, price, and rivals.

Jan 22, 2026 - 11:38
Jan 22, 2026 - 11:40
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild
7 Reasons the New Audi SQ5 Is Fast—but Not Wild

Audi’s popular performance SUV is back — faster, smarter, and more electrified than before.
But while the all-new Audi SQ5 delivers serious pace, the big question remains: does it still excite?


SEGMENT 1: A BIG CHANGE UNDER THE BONNET

Forget diesel — the new Audi SQ5 returns to petrol power.
Under the hood sits a hybridised 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, producing 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, paired with Audi’s new 48-volt MHEV Plus hybrid tech.

Power is sent to all four wheels via quattro all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The result?

Fast? Absolutely.
Explosive? Not quite.


SEGMENT 2: TWO BODYSTYLES, SAME ATTITUDE

Buyers can choose between:

Despite the coupe-like roofline, the Sportback sacrifices very little practicality. Still, many will prefer the classic SUV’s cleaner proportions.


SEGMENT 3: DESIGN—EVOLUTION, NOT REVOLUTION

Audi hasn’t reinvented the SQ5, but it has sharpened it:

The result is a confident, modern look — and arguably more cohesive than the latest BMW X3.


SEGMENT 4: INSIDE THE DIGITAL COCKPIT

Step inside and you’re greeted by Audi’s new “Digital Stage”:

It’s high-tech, premium, and undeniably screen-heavy.

The SQ5 also gets exclusive sport seats, offering excellent comfort — though keen drivers may want more lateral support when pushing on.


SEGMENT 5: PRICE CHECK

In the UK:

Not cheap — but equipment levels are strong.


SEGMENT 6: RIVALS IN SIGHT

The SQ5 faces stiff competition:


VERDICT: FAST, POLISHED… BUT RESTRAINED

The new Audi SQ5 is:
✔ Extremely quick
✔ Comfortable and practical
✔ Well-built and refined

But it’s also:
✖ Lacking drama
✖ Quiet when you want noise
✖ More “fast family SUV” than thrill machine

The Audi SQ5 is a brilliant everyday performance SUV — effortless, capable, and premium.
It just won’t set your pulse racing the way some rivals might.

For many buyers, that calm confidence will be exactly the point.

Thank you for reading this content.


If you find it helpful, then checkout : https://plplnews.com/cupra-leon-hot-hatch-review-325bhp


Also check out the latest Audi :  https://plplnews.com/audi-e-tron-gt-facelift-rs-performance-review





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