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 2021 Chevrolet Traverse is a big family mover with a sharper look and better safety features.
PROS Sharp looks Standard active safety features Comfortable ride Spacious interior Wireless smartphone software
CONS Outdated AWD system Middling fuel economy Just one engine available
Chevrolet has given its three-row Traverse a light refresh for the 2021 model year that includes revised exterior styling and a host of new standard driver-assistance features. Among them are automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps. An 8.0-inch display inside the gauge cluster is now an available tech option, and new upholstery designs dress up the interior.
PROS Spacious cabin, peppy acceleration, fuel efficient powertrain.
CONS Big blind spots toward the rear, plasticky interior parts, most appealing options cost extra.
The 2021 Traverse has no significant changes. Part of the second Traverse generation introduced for 2018.
PROS Passenger room is generous in all three rows Loads of space for any combination of passengers and cargo Feature-rich infotainment system comes with standard Wi-Fi hotspot
CONS Some safety features are only available on top trims Quality of some interior panels and controls seems low-rent for this class