Q5 vs SQ5? Anyone one from one to the other?

[OUGrad05]

Just curious, always been more of a sedan guy. A6 is on the list as are a couple of other Audi products and some vehicles from other MFGs. I like the Q5 and SQ5. They're generally reliable, though probably have their own set of issues and I love the idea of a sporty hatchback since most of my cars of sporty variety and we can't get sporty and powerful wagons here...at least at a reasonable price.

With the girls getting a bit older we need to move something a bit bigger than my 335i. Also being 6'6 means space is at a premium for me and I don't want to drive a boat (see 7 series, A8, etc). A big part of me says if I go SUV just throw in the towel and give up on sport. But that's just really hard to do, as a car guy, as something who loves vehicles it's just very difficult.

I want something that I can put a tow hook on to mount my bike rack, something that maybe could displace the Lexus (wife has RX350) for family vacations. My BMW is great on trips but if I want to haul the bikes I can't which leaves the Lexus. The seating position isn't right for someone of my height, while I make it work it's not that comfortable and it gets absolutely atrocious mileage.

Anyway, any thoughts from folks who have gone from Q5 to SQ5 or from SQ5 to Q5 I'd love to hear it. The practical answer is Q5, but I know I'll miss the power of a turbo 6, especially in a bigger vehicle.

[jasonsowers]

The supercharged V6 comes in the SQ5 and the Q5. So you can pick either the Q5 or the SQ5.

[SQive]

I've had two SQ5's. I've also driven several Q5 loaners. To me, there's no comparison. Others on here will say the a Q5 3.0T can be modded to SQ5 specs, but that's not the case with the new ones. The new series (B9) Q5 only comes with the 2.0T. If you want the V6, you have to go with the SQ5. The B9 SQ5's are turbos, while the '14 - '17 SQ5 (and Q5 3.0T) are supercharged. Those who have the B8.5's will tell you the turbo model isn't as snappy, but that's always been the down side with turbos. Those that have a B9 will say it isn't so bad. Personally (duh), I love the B8.5, but don't like the looks or quality of the B9 so much. Again, two different schools there. It's like this: IMO, if you want to get a '14 - '17 3.0T, rock on! You can't go wrong with either V6 model. If you want new, well. . .I don't want to incite another riot here, but I'll just say I want my German luxury vehicle to come from Germany.

[OUGrad05]

The supercharged V6 comes in the SQ5 and the Q5. So you can pick either the Q5 or the SQ5.

That's not correct anymore. You get a 2.0L turbo in the Q5 and a twin turbo V6 in the SQ5

[q5 dave]

That's not correct anymore. You get a 2.0L turbo in the Q5 and a twin turbo V6 in the SQ5

The new V6T is twin-scroll, not twin turbo.

[OUGrad05]

Ahh good to know

The new V6T is twin-scroll, not twin turbo.

[MK2SQ]

Just curious, always been more of a sedan guy. A6 is on the list as are a couple of other Audi products and some vehicles from other MFGs. I like the Q5 and SQ5. They're generally reliable, though probably have their own set of issues and I love the idea of a sporty hatchback since most of my cars of sporty variety and we can't get sporty and powerful wagons here...at least at a reasonable price.

With the girls getting a bit older we need to move something a bit bigger than my 335i. Also being 6'6 means space is at a premium for me and I don't want to drive a boat (see 7 series, A8, etc). A big part of me says if I go SUV just throw in the towel and give up on sport. But that's just really hard to do, as a car guy, as something who loves vehicles it's just very difficult.

I want something that I can put a tow hook on to mount my bike rack, something that maybe could displace the Lexus (wife has RX350) for family vacations. My BMW is great on trips but if I want to haul the bikes I can't which leaves the Lexus. The seating position isn't right for someone of my height, while I make it work it's not that comfortable and it gets absolutely atrocious mileage.

Anyway, any thoughts from folks who have gone from Q5 to SQ5 or from SQ5 to Q5 I'd love to hear it. The practical answer is Q5, but I know I'll miss the power of a turbo 6, especially in a bigger vehicle.

I would not recommend any of them from what you described. Go and test drive them with the family and see how comfortable will you be and the kids in the back. Me and my wife are not as tall as you and no teenager or adults would be comfortable with the way we position our seats especially for longer drive. I love my SQ5 B9 and as much as I’m looking to find something better every day I was not able to find anything as good. For example new A7 is so much smaller for drivers then the older one and don’t like the rear or the low sitting position. Q8 is nice inside but would be over 100k with specks I want and still slower and bigger to what I need for a DD. Don’t get me wrong B9 SQ5 foe me is the best crossover DD regardless of price and spac. with that a person you’re size and kids and trips to me = q7 or if you can justify the $ the Q8.

[OUGrad05]

I would not recommend any of them from what you described. Go and test drive them with the family and see how comfortable will you be and the kids in the back. Me and my wife are not as tall as you and no teenager or adults would be comfortable with the way we position our seats especially for longer drive. I love my SQ5 B9 and as much as I’m looking to find something better every day I was not able to find anything as good. For example new A7 is so much smaller for drivers then the older one and don’t like the rear or the low sitting position. Q8 is nice inside but would be over 100k with specks I want and still slower and bigger to what I need for a DD. Don’t get me wrong B9 SQ5 foe me is the best crossover DD regardless of price and spac. with that a person you’re size and kids and trips to me = q7 or if you can justify the $ the Q8.

I like the Q7 but have zero desire to drive a vehicle that big day to day.

[KillerQuattro]

OP it might help if we knew what Gen you are leaning towards, and your budget.

I have to agree with the above statement.. I came from a B7 avant, and I feel that I have about the same, or slightly less useable space. If I were to have kids and need extra room for road trips, I would certainly lean towards a Q7 with the 3.0t and tune it. There you have plenty of power, and room. I guess you need to ask yourself, is a Q7 too big, or is the Q5 too small? Both will be a solid option with the 3.0tfsi supercharged engine.

Edit: Get a Q5 3.0t and be happy.

[OUGrad05]

OP it might help if we knew what Gen you are leaning towards, and your budget.

I have to agree with the above statement.. I came from a B7 avant, and I feel that I have about the same, or slightly less useable space. If I were to have kids and need extra room for road trips, I would certainly lean towards a Q7 with the 3.0t and tune it. There you have plenty of power, and room. I guess you need to ask yourself, is a Q7 too big, or is the Q5 too small? Both will be a solid option with the 3.0tfsi supercharged engine.

Edit: Get a Q5 3.0t and be happy.

I'd be the new B9, probably try to find a CPO car.

[KillerQuattro]

If it were me, I would choose a '17 Q5 3.0t CPO with 10-20k miles over a brand new '18 2.0t Q5 any day of the week. With the new Q5, you are stuck with "standard quattro ultra" instead of the true quattro we are used to.. Be sure you drive the new Q5 like you normally would to test out the drivetrain.

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ssion-Terrible!

[MK2SQ]

I like the Q7 but have zero desire to drive a vehicle that big day to day.

Then i'm confused as you want space but don't want a big vehicle. You cant eat your cake and have it too.... Drive the Q5 with the family and see if this would do for you.

Then if you are happy with the size you need to see if you want any of the below.

- Air ride
- Power (V6)
- NAPA seats
- carbon fiber trim

if you dont care for any of this option then go with a Q5 and save $

[MSq5]

I'd be the new B9, probably try to find a CPO car.

Yes, that will be the 3.0T engine with turbo in the SQ version. It's a very nice car, just not a lot of upgrade options for power so far.

I don't think anyone has broken the coding on the ECU yet. That will come with time. The ZF8 automatic transmission does carry over from those of us with SQ/Q5 models with the 3.0 TFSI. That transmission is amazing.

[OUGrad05]

The Q series vehicles have quite a bit more room than say an A4 or S5 sportback. The packaging allows for more real world leg room in the second row for example.

U are correct I don't want a huge vehicle

Then i'm confused as you want space but don't want a big vehicle. You cant eat your cake and have it too.... Drive the Q5 with the family and see if this would do for you.

Then if you are happy with the size you need to see if you want any of the below.

- Air ride
- Power (V6)
- NAPA seats
- carbon fiber trim

if you dont care for any of this option then go with a Q5 and save $

[MK2SQ]

The Q series vehicles have quite a bit more room than say an A4 or S5 sportback. The packaging allows for more real world leg room in the second row for example.

U are correct I don't want a huge vehicle

I owned multipole A4 and now the SQ5 B9 I would urge you to verify the leg room between models. You sit higher in the Q but I don’t agree you have more leg room for rear passenger.

Go out and test drive only way you will know what you like more and what fits for you.

[MK2SQ]

Yes, that will be the 3.0T engine with turbo in the SQ version. It's a very nice car, just not a lot of upgrade options for power so far.

I don't think anyone has broken the coding on the ECU yet. That will come with time. The ZF8 automatic transmission does carry over from those of us with SQ/Q5 models with the 3.0 TFSI. That transmission is amazing.

You are right not a lot right now but I love my JB4 tunner that got me to 0-60 in 4.6 seconds and don’t know how much more one really needs. Now want is another thing 😂 AEW also has an amazing exhaust for the SQ5 so you got all you need 👍

[mwlmd]

Also check out the Volvo XC90. It feels small but has lots of room for taller people.

[greasykid]

If it were me, I would choose a '17 Q5 3.0t CPO with 10-20k miles over a brand new '18 2.0t Q5 any day of the week. With the new Q5, you are stuck with "standard quattro ultra" instead of the true quattro we are used to.. Be sure you drive the new Q5 like you normally would to test out the drivetrain.

https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ssion-Terrible!

What is the difference between the 2 QUATTRO's you quote?

[DiscoDan]

Also check out the Volvo XC90. It feels small but has lots of room for taller people.

I'm 6'3 and have no issues piloting my B9 SQ5, the interior is comfy and inviting.

[ChrisBWJ]

My 6' 8" son fits nicely in the front seat of my '18 SQ5. Haven't seen him in the back seat. I suspect plenty of head room, not enough leg room back there for him unless the front seat passenger moves most of the way forward.

[TexasDfwS4]

The genII has a little more leg room for rear passengers but less cargo room with the seats up.

[OUGrad05]

I like Volvo's design but the drivetrains and driving experience is pretty damn boring

Also check out the Volvo XC90. It feels small but has lots of room for taller people.

[MSq5]

I like Volvo's design but the drivetrains and driving experience is pretty damn boring

My wife has a 2012 XC 90. It been trouble free, but in general they have a terrible frequency of repair history. She's been lucky. They are now Chinese owned, but still assembled in Sweden. She likes the new design, still need third row seating, but is skeptical about moving from a V6 to their turbo four in a car that heavy. She is looking at other options.

[OUGrad05]

The drivetrain is disappointing IMO. Lacks the power of the Audi and BMW 4 cyls unless you go twin charged. That creates it's own issues and poor mileage. I also question long term reliability.

My wife has a 2012 XC 90. It been trouble free, but in general they have a terrible frequency of repair history. She's been lucky. They are now Chinese owned, but still assembled in Sweden. She likes the new design, still need third row seating, but is skeptical about moving from a V6 to their turbo four in a car that heavy. She is looking at other options.

[agrizzly72]

Drive an x5. I had one and loved it. It’s not real big but has lots of room. It was great to travel in.


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[OUGrad05]

Drive an x5. I had one and loved it. It’s not real big but has lots of room. It was great to travel in.


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I have driven several when my car has been in the shop. They are excellent but running cost get quite high on those. Especially with the common staggered setup you find on the turbo6 and v8 cars.

[agrizzly72]

Tires are expensive but they drive well for their size and are comfortable for road trips.


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[OUGrad05]

Tires are expensive but they drive well for their size and are comfortable for road trips.


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Absolutely agree with you on that. Maintenance is also quite a bit higher than an SQ5 - FYI

[VW2Audi25]

I know this is an old thread and sorry to bump it, but just wanted to add my two cents for anyone who is considering both from someone who was recently in a similar predicament.

FWIW - I test drove a 16 SQ5 and cross shopped against a B9 Q5.

If you care about speed only, then SQ5 is obviously the way to go. Sure - you can tune/add a JB4 to the B9 Q5, but it will not have the same sound or feel as the SQ5. But if speed is your main goal, you should not buy a B8.5 SQ5, but a Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

If you care about looks, features and luxury, then the previous generation SQ5 is definitely NOT the way to go. You can talk all you want about where they were built - driving them back to back makes the SQ5 feel like it's 15 years behind in terms of technology and interior looks. Not to mention that the B8.5 felt like a boat. You can definitely feel the extra 400 lbs - at which point that V6 is definitely needed just to make it competitive against base model SUVs coming out these days.

Your passengers will definitely think that the B9 is built in Germany while the previous Gen is built in Vietnam. Not something you want if you value a "luxury SUV" in 2019.

[MSq5]

I know this is an old thread and sorry to bump it, but just wanted to add my two cents for anyone who is considering both from someone who was recently in a similar predicament.

FWIW - I test drove a 16 SQ5 and cross shopped against a B9 Q5.

If you care about speed only, then SQ5 is obviously the way to go. Sure - you can tune/add a JB4 to the B9 Q5, but it will not have the same sound or feel as the SQ5. But if speed is your main goal, you should not buy a B8.5 SQ5, but a Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

If you care about looks, features and luxury, then the previous generation SQ5 is definitely NOT the way to go. You can talk all you want about where they were built - driving them back to back makes the SQ5 feel like it's 15 years behind in terms of technology and interior looks. Not to mention that the B8.5 felt like a boat. You can definitely feel the extra 400 lbs - at which point that V6 is definitely needed just to make it competitive against base model SUVs coming out these days.

Your passengers will definitely think that the B9 is built in Germany while the previous Gen is built in Vietnam. Not something you want if you value a "luxury SUV" in 2019.

V6 for V6, I think the 3.0 turbo B9 SQ5 is only 100 pounds lighter than the B8.5 3.0 supercharged SQ5, and you simply can't get a V6 any longer in the current Q5, only the underpowered 2.0T.

As some point you make choices based on your own criteria. For me, the '17 S-Line Q5 with the strong, highly adaptable to modification 3.0 TFSI supercharged version was the happy medium between comfort and performance, and at a more friendly price tag.

I understand Audi's concerns about EPA fuel economy standards getting tighter and its move to turbos in the SQ5. It is a shame Audi also chose to make the turbo V6 available only in the SQ package.

Perhaps on down the road the engine will trickle down to the Q5 in an S-Line version. Maybe by then the code will be cracked for proper tuning. My car may be a "boat" to some, but it is a very quick one. Perhaps several years of use might distinguish "Made in Germany" versus "Made in Mexico." Maybe not.

[Charles.waite]

OP it might help if we knew what Gen you are leaning towards, and your budget.

I have to agree with the above statement.. I came from a B7 avant, and I feel that I have about the same, or slightly less useable space. If I were to have kids and need extra room for road trips, I would certainly lean towards a Q7 with the 3.0t and tune it. There you have plenty of power, and room. I guess you need to ask yourself, is a Q7 too big, or is the Q5 too small? Both will be a solid option with the 3.0tfsi supercharged engine.

Edit: Get a Q5 3.0t and be happy.

Agree here on the cargo space. My b7 holds just as much (probably more because the back seats are smaller in the b7) as the q5.

I love the engine in the q5. I have an IE tune on the 2.0t model and it’s nice and quick, way faster than my stock b7.

The 3.0t is truly quick, I got a loaner 3.0t Prestige model once, but I’ve never driven an SQ so I can only assume it’s quicker and sportier than the regular Q regardless of engine.

I wouldn’t discount the new 2.0t. It’s a really phenomenal engine and once the tuning catches up, it will be able to hold its own with the v6s.

My only concern for the OP (if he’s still reading this thread) is the 2.0t struggles to cruise easily above 80mph when you have a roof box on. This is mainly due to the sloped roof so the box is canted upwards at the front, basically acting like a wind sail. It’s stupid. Not sure if the b9s have resolved that (major, IMO) issue or not...

[OUGrad05]

Agree here on the cargo space. My b7 holds just as much (probably more because the back seats are smaller in the b7) as the q5.

I love the engine in the q5. I have an IE tune on the 2.0t model and it’s nice and quick, way faster than my stock b7.

The 3.0t is truly quick, I got a loaner 3.0t Prestige model once, but I’ve never driven an SQ so I can only assume it’s quicker and sportier than the regular Q regardless of engine.

I wouldn’t discount the new 2.0t. It’s a really phenomenal engine and once the tuning catches up, it will be able to hold its own with the v6s.

My only concern for the OP (if he’s still reading this thread) is the 2.0t struggles to cruise easily above 80mph when you have a roof box on. This is mainly due to the sloped roof so the box is canted upwards at the front, basically acting like a wind sail. It’s stupid. Not sure if the b9s have resolved that (major, IMO) issue or not...

I am still reading. SQ5 is probably the answer and it would be a B9

[MK2SQ]

I am still reading. SQ5 is probably the answer and it would be a B9

B9 would be my recommendation if you want current design and comforts. Q5 or SQ5 you can’t go wrong. Good luck

[Hey_T_S5]

B9 would be my recommendation if you want current design and comforts. Q5 or SQ5 you can’t go wrong. Good luck

Just returned a 2019 Q5 that I had as a loaner, car rides beautifully, the design is on point and the engine is plenty powerful but definitely not a speed demon!! My biggest issue was the seats, I had the car for 5 days, took it on a 3 hour road trip and while I was never really uncomfortable, I was also never comfortable. The only spot you can seat is dead center, the side bolsters are way too high, narrow and stiff, not sure what other seat option this car has but I would seat away from the “comfort” seat option!!!


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[MK2SQ]

Just returned a 2019 Q5 that I had as a loaner, car rides beautifully, the design is on point and the engine is plenty powerful but definitely not a speed demon!! My biggest issue was the seats, I had the car for 5 days, took it on a 3 hour road trip and while I was never really uncomfortable, I was also never comfortable. The only spot you can seat is dead center, the side bolsters are way too high, narrow and stiff, not sure what other seat option this car has but I would seat away from the “comfort” seat option!!!


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Seats are all personal taste like color. Every body is different and everyone is looking for different support or cushion. Sorry it did not work out for you.

[StingX71]

I'm 6' and wished the seat dropped a little bit lower in my 18 SQ5. Q5 might be a bit small for you you. Not to mention you'll have to have the seat pretty far back limiting rear seat leg room. It fine for us, but if I had to push my seat back any further, it would start getting cramped back there for the kids. Q7 might be in your future.

[OUGrad05]

I'm 6' and wished the seat dropped a little bit lower in my 18 SQ5. Q5 might be a bit small for you you. Not to mention you'll have to have the seat pretty far back limiting rear seat leg room. It fine for us, but if I had to push my seat back any further, it would start getting cramped back there for the kids. Q7 might be in your future.

I'd go back to an x3 M40i before I go q7....Q7 is too damn big

[Charles.waite]

Q7s are enormous and a totally different car. And the OP has stated multiple times he’s not remotely interested in one.

How you fit in a car is totally different for different people too. My dad is 6’1 and I’m 5’11 but I can barely reach the pedals the way he sits and I feel like I sit a good way back. Even with my seat memory setting in the q5 there is loads of backseat space compared to my b7 where a normal adult with legs can’t really fit behind my drivers seat. Again I can’t speak to the b9 but I’d assume it’s maybe slightly larger all around (because cars always get bigger across generations...). As an average height person, a q5 seems like a good car for tall people but it depends if you’re torso is taller than your legs or vice versa.

But the best way to know is to test drive one rather than listen to us bozos on the internet.

[buggravy]

I know this is an old thread and sorry to bump it, but just wanted to add my two cents for anyone who is considering both from someone who was recently in a similar predicament.

FWIW - I test drove a 16 SQ5 and cross shopped against a B9 Q5.

If you care about speed only, then SQ5 is obviously the way to go. Sure - you can tune/add a JB4 to the B9 Q5, but it will not have the same sound or feel as the SQ5. But if speed is your main goal, you should not buy a B8.5 SQ5, but a Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

If you care about looks, features and luxury, then the previous generation SQ5 is definitely NOT the way to go. You can talk all you want about where they were built - driving them back to back makes the SQ5 feel like it's 15 years behind in terms of technology and interior looks. Not to mention that the B8.5 felt like a boat. You can definitely feel the extra 400 lbs - at which point that V6 is definitely needed just to make it competitive against base model SUVs coming out these days.

Your passengers will definitely think that the B9 is built in Germany while the previous Gen is built in Vietnam. Not something you want if you value a "luxury SUV" in 2019.

While many who have driven both may prefer the B9, I don't think many are as polarized by the two as you are. I agree that build quality from Mexico is a nonissue. Fit and finish on our B9 is fantastic. B9 obviously has more and better tech, and yeah, it has made my B8 feel long in the tooth in some regards. But the motor. From an enthusiast point of view (tuning options once available not withstanding) it's hard to imagine that anyone would genuinely prefer the turbo over the supercharged 3.0T. The B9 may be a nicer car to drive, and better in many ways, but I contend that the B8 is still the more exciting car to drive mainly due to the motor. It's still the heartbeat of the car.

The Alpha is in odd bird. I'd be super leery of reliability, but maybe you'd get lucky. If you have a desire to mod, the stance on the Alpha is whack. Mega wheel gap, with very sedan like ground clearance. Don't think there'd be much luck trying to get rid of a meaningful amount of gap with a drop. I'm sure it's a fun car to drive though.

[KillerQuattro]

"Your passengers will definitely think that the B9 is built in Germany while the previous Gen is built in Vietnam. Not something you want if you value a "luxury SUV" in 2019."

While many who have driven both may prefer the B9, I don't think many are as polarized by the two as you are. I agree that build quality from Mexico is a nonissue. Fit and finish on our B9 is fantastic. B9 obviously has more and better tech, and yeah, it has made my B8 feel long in the tooth in some regards. But the motor. From an enthusiast point of view (tuning options once available not withstanding) it's hard to imagine that anyone would genuinely prefer the turbo over the supercharged 3.0T. The B9 may be a nicer car to drive, and better in many ways, but I contend that the B8 is still the more exciting car to drive mainly due to the motor. It's still the heartbeat of the car.

The Alpha is in odd bird. I'd be super leery of reliability, but maybe you'd get lucky. If you have a desire to mod, the stance on the Alpha is whack. Mega wheel gap, with very sedan like ground clearance. Don't think there'd be much luck trying to get rid of a meaningful amount of gap with a drop. I'm sure it's a fun car to drive though.

^This. I was trying to formulate a reasonable response to these egregious claims that an SQ5 could ever be mistaken to have been made in Vietnam. Come on. Not to mention the Alfa suggestion is just silly. That thing is fugly. I mistook it for a Mazda some time ago.. All that and I just built one real quick on their website. ..for comparable features to the new SQ5, the Alfa would cost about $95k.