As you might expect from looking at them side by side in a parking lot, the Audi Q5 and the Audi SQ5 are two versions of the same small luxury crossover SUV. The SQ5 offers more power and some extra performance along with a few added luxury touches to help it feel a bit more premium.
Pros Impressively comfortable ride for a sport-tuned SUV Generous space for passengers Luxurious but restrained interior design Nimble handling
Cons Lack of touchscreen functionality limits smartphone integration usefulness
Thankfully, the Audi SQ5 is a lot more comfortable than most of them. Its standard adaptive suspension will let you choose between sporty or more comfortable settings, but the optional adaptive air suspension irons out bumps better than any other sporty SUV. It’ll also lower the car’s ride height at speed to make it more stable and you can raise it by 45mm if you fancy a spot of light off-roading.
Pros Very fast Great build quality Spacious interior
Cons Expensive options Diesel engine only Pricey compared to alternatives
The SQ5 displays great balance between driving dynamics and comfort, proving its worth in a competitive class.
Pros Numerous standard interior features, well-balanced ride, surprisingly fuel efficient.
Cons Passenger volume and cargo space is lacking, bland exterior design, falls short to its rivals in terms of performance.
The Audi SQ8 adds a heady dose of diesel performance to the regular Q8's style-led form, creating a compelling new variant in the Audi Sport range.
Pros Enticing low rpm performance Impressive dynamics for the size Comfortable and quiet as a family SUV... But able to transform itself when asked to angry-up
Cons Not different enough from a cheaper Q8 inside Minor wind noise interruption at highway speeds Hides its size well on the open road, but not on city streets
The SQ8 is new for 2020.Kicks off the first SQ8 generation.
Pros Twin-turbo 500-hp V8 moves the SQ8 with authority Four-wheel steering keeps the big SUV feeling nimble 48-volt hybrid system provides added acceleration from a standstill
Cons Less practical than the related Q7 Infotainment system can be distracting to use Limited interior storage
Put simply, the Audi SQ8 is one of the fastest diesel-powered SUV in the world and can be had with loads of high-tech kit. Sadly, lots of these features are reserved for top-spec Vorsprung cars.
Pros Sports-car fast Posh and spacious interior Plenty of infotainment tech
Cons Alternatives are more fun to drive Cheaper Q8 50TDI makes more sense Petrol-powered alternatives are more dramatic