If you had to do it over again - best bang for the buck, Q5 or SQ5?

[B8Phil]

I currently have a B8 (09) A4 Prem+, APR Stage II and we’re about to have a third kid, so it’s time for a SUV. Looking at a preowned Q5/SQ5 - need your guys input on the best bang for the buck. If you had to do it over again considering features, platform issues, and upgrades, what year and trim would you go with?

[PR.138]

I guess it would depend on whether you intend to mod the Q5 to match an SQ5 in all areas (suspension, brakes, power, exterior/wheels, etc.), or if just matching the power level is enough for you.

You can get a Q5, tune it, and call it a day - that saves a ton of money and would be a fantastic daily driver with a lot of power. If that’s not where you plan on ending the mods, then I think an SQ makes more sense.

My SQ has been amazing and i think I’ll really only need to add a tune and lowering springs to be happy with it. I’d have to spend a lot more money to get a Q5 to where I’d feel the same way. Obviously this is a matter of personal opinion, here.

To answer more of your questions: I’d personally recommend a newer (14-16) B8.5 SQ5. I love the supercharged 6 and ease of tuning. You can find them in the low $30s with 30k miles or so. Mine still had factory warranty left on it.

[S4'ed]

A 2016 or 2017 3.0T or SQ5 3.0T.
2.0Ts earlier than 2013 have engine issues.
3.0T earlier than 2016 have timing chain noise issue due to the upper tensioners.
2015s built after Jan 2015 have an revised front chassis structure for improved small-offset crash test performance.

[RoofRails]

I can't recall reading a post from a SQ5 owner saying they wish they would have gotten a 3.0T Q5 and the same goes for 3.0T Q5 owners wishing they would have gone SQ5. If you plan on leaving it stock then a SQ5 is the only answer. If you like the interior bits of the SQ5 then the SQ5 is the way to go because those trim pieces get really expensive really quick. One big factor for me when I was shopping is the 3.0T Q5 was not only 3-5K cheaper but the examples in my price range had less miles on them as well. That being said now that the B9 is out and in the mainstream it is a really good time to be shopping for a B8.5 SQ5/Q5 3.0T. Either way you go you will be getting a lot of SUV for your dollar.

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[sebvw]

No brainer: Q5 3.0T.


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[B8Phil]

This is fantastic feedback, guys, thank you! I was dialed into the 2016-17 Q5/SQ5 but wanted to make sure there were no significant issues with electrical, oil consumption/carbon buildup, or timing chain/tensioner issues. I just got done dealing with full timing service on my 09 A4, and don’t want to have to deal with that again.

This is definitely going to get tuned, suspension comps, wheels, and other engine bits to make it more responsive. Unless someone makes a compelling argument to save the extra scratch on the Q5 and put it toward mods, I’m leaning more to the SQ5.

[tylaughter]

I’m not sure what the age range of your kids will be but I have 3 kids and the size of my SQ5 is not really enough. My wife has an Q7 which is used almost exclusively when I/we have all 3 kids in tow. I love my SQ but unless you have a larger SUV in the household I would consider the 3.0T Q7; or TDI if you’re lucky.


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[B8Phil]

I’m not sure what the age range of your kids will be but I have 3 kids and the size of my SQ5 is not really enough. My wife has an Q7 which is used almost exclusively when I/we have all 3 kids in tow. I love my SQ but unless you have a larger SUV in the household I would consider the 3.0T Q7; or TDI if you’re lucky.


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Spot on... the kids are 11, 4, and a new one on the way. My wife currently has an 08 Highlander, we’re looking at a 2015 Q7 prestige as her replacement.

[tylaughter]

Spot on... the kids are 11, 4, and a new one on the way. My wife currently has an 08 Highlander, we’re looking at a 2015 Q7 prestige as her replacement.

Perfect. Don’t get me wrong, it works in the SQ5 but not ideal. With 3 kids (8, 4, 18m) in the backseat, it gets a little tight with 2 being in car seats. Then that doesn’t leave a ton of cargo space for things like luggage, pack/play crib, stroller, golf clubs. We will utilize our cargo box up top if needed when we have all those items.


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[Novarider]

If you are going to change the wheels and suspension why would you pay more for a SQ5? The main difference between the Q5 and SQ5 are tune, wheels and suspension. If you are going to be changing all 3 of those you are paying thousands of dollars more for an SQ badge.

[B8Phil]

If you are going to change the wheels and suspension why would you pay more for a SQ5? The main difference between the Q5 and SQ5 are tune, wheels and suspension. If you are going to be changing all 3 of those you are paying thousands of dollars more for an SQ badge.

You know, it all sounded good in my head until I actually test drove the two yesterday. Then reading exactly what you stated above, I’ve come to a similar realization.

[Turtleteeth]

You know, it all sounded good in my head until I actually test drove the two yesterday. Then reading exactly what you stated above, I’ve come to a similar realization.

Aren’t the front brakes and calipers larger on the SQ than the 3.0t Q? Not 100% sure tbh, but I’d think they are. I also tend to prefer the look/feel of the interior of the SQ over the Q.

The kid thing is a big factor though... alcantra gets awfully messy when you smash goldfish, fruit snacks, Cheerios, etc into them. So the pleather in the Q might be a better alternative.

My SQ suits us well with 2 kids under 8, and my wife with the larger SUV, but if there was a 3rd idk if it’d work.


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[Silver_Bullet]

I would consider both but I wouldn't pay more than a 3-4K premium for the SQ5 with the same miles/condition. The SQ5 mechanical changes are the tune, wheels, shocks/springs, front brakes, valved exhaust, extra intercooler.

Also people seem to like the adaptive suspension that was an option for the Q5s and not available on the SQ5s. If I was looking now I'd try to find a Q5 with that option just so you could go soft on bad roads with kids and sport when out on your own.

[greasykid]

Almost 18 mos ago I bought a 2016 Q5 prem + w/tech & prem paint & 22k mi. $29,900. Perfect condition & all proper dealer services. Had 18" wheels. Bought 20"take off wheels/tires from new 2018 Q5 $1400 shipped. Added H&R lowering springs. $750 installed. Sprint Booster installed $400. Sold 18" wheels/tires $400. Grand total: $32,450.
Not interested in how fast I can go so SB gives me all the fun I want.

Great Q5 @ a reasonable cost. Now have 31k mi & no problems.

[LowerJumper]

I bought my SQ5 used in August 2017. If I could do it over I absolutely would have looked for a Q5 3.0T instead.

[VroomVroom]

I think this is the fourth or fifth thread on the topic over the last few months. Definitely worth searching or just scrolling and page turning over a cup of coffee.

TLDR: It's subjective. Factor in what's most important to you. If that list does not include interior appointments you are likely to be very satisfied with the Q5.

[JD S4]

We’re forgetting to add in seats, steering. Wheel, shift knob, optional carbon fiber trim, larger brakes, exhaust and diffuser. Also - while the engine is the same - the tune is different.

To get to parity it’s brakes, suspension, wheels, interior trim, tune, exhaust, steering wheel and shifter, etc.




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[Don Arco]

I’ve recently started looking into the Q5/SQ5 territory as well. Although, I’ll admit that I’m roughly 12-18 months out before I seriously start shopping around. I eventually would like to convert the RS5 into my weekend only car and acquire something more practical for the daily use. Preferably something higher off the ground, so I don’t have to worry about the shitty city roads in Houston.

Can anyone chime in on the Q5 3.0 TDI? I’m thinking diesel can do no wrong in terms of a solid daily. Any known problems or are they pretty bullet proof?

[Novarider]

We’re forgetting to add in seats, steering. Wheel, shift knob, optional carbon fiber trim, larger brakes, exhaust and diffuser. Also - while the engine is the same - the tune is different.

To get to parity it’s brakes, suspension, wheels, interior trim, tune, exhaust, steering wheel and shifter, etc.




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All of that has been covered above. If he's changing out the suspension, wheels and getting a tune it's down to aesthetics. You can easily find Q5's with sport seats. IMO a fbsw, shifter and some carbon trim are not worth several thousand dollars.

The brakes are bigger but don't they have less pistons in the caliper? I wouldn't consider that an upgrade. I could be wrong but I've not seen anyone "upgrade" their Q5 brakes to SQ5 brakes.

All that said it depends on how bad you want that SQ badge.

[B8Phil]

I bought my SQ5 used in August 2017. If I could do it over I absolutely would have looked for a Q5 3.0T instead.

That’s where I am with it... “would I have buyers remorse?”

[B8Phil]

All of that has been covered above. If he's changing out the suspension, wheels and getting a tune it's down to aesthetics. You can easily find Q5's with sport seats. IMO a fbsw, shifter and some carbon trim are not worth several thousand dollars.

The brakes are bigger but don't they have less pistons in the caliper? I wouldn't consider that an upgrade. I could be wrong but I've not seen anyone "upgrade" their Q5 brakes to SQ5 brakes.

All that said it depends on how bad you want that SQ badge.

Brakes felt fine on the 2017 Q5 prem+ I took out the other day. I’d upgrade he pads/rotors when that time comes anyways, but it didn’t feel terrible with the OE setup.

[B8Phil]

We’re forgetting to add in seats, steering. Wheel, shift knob, optional carbon fiber trim, larger brakes, exhaust and diffuser. Also - while the engine is the same - the tune is different.

To get to parity it’s brakes, suspension, wheels, interior trim, tune, exhaust, steering wheel and shifter, etc.




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Not a fan of alcantara, but really would like ventilated seats. I’m on the hunt now for a 16/17 Q5 3.0T Prestige with black optic package.

[ILVTRANCE]

I'm sorry the SQ5 is better in every way no matter how you slice it.

[Bezlar]

Aren’t the front brakes and calipers larger on the SQ than the 3.0t Q? Not 100% sure tbh, but I’d think they are. I also tend to prefer the look/feel of the interior of the SQ over the Q.

The kid thing is a big factor though... alcantra gets awfully messy when you smash goldfish, fruit snacks, Cheerios, etc into them. So the pleather in the Q might be a better alternative.

My SQ suits us well with 2 kids under 8, and my wife with the larger SUV, but if there was a 3rd idk if it’d work.


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no food at all is my rule for our cars. My girls 12 and 15 never have been allowed to eat in the car. My 15 1/2 year old has her car already and I guarantee she will not allow any food in her car. I’m a proud father, raised her right. Well we did have a mini van once, there might have been a weak moment in that.


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[Phil Dammit]

3 kids in a 5 is pushing it. I wouldn plan any family trips larger than an errand run in a 5 with all 3 kids in tow. Especially wouldn with a baby seat as part of the mix. That will turn into a crowded mess real fast.

With that said, bought the wife a 14' Q5 S-Line 3.0t with two tone brown leather interior last year. We were in the boat for an SQ5 but price wise it just made more sense to not pay the 5k premiuim for the SQ being that down the road I knew the wheels, suspension, and tune would be swapping and/or installed later on.



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[choppstixxx]

Here are a few recent similar threads that answer most if not all your questions:
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ng-3-0T-vs-SQ5
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ne-3-0t-vs-SQ5

[Turtleteeth]

Here are a few recent similar threads that answer most if not all your questions:
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ng-3-0T-vs-SQ5
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ne-3-0t-vs-SQ5

Boom... lock it up


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[vdubjetta02]

I currently have a B8 (09) A4 Prem+, APR Stage II and we’re about to have a third kid, so it’s time for a SUV. Looking at a preowned Q5/SQ5 - need your guys input on the best bang for the buck. If you had to do it over again considering features, platform issues, and upgrades, what year and trim would you go with?

Just FYI, I just sold my Stage 2 A4 and the Q/SQ isn't any bigger..... I got into an SQ5 soley because I wanted one for work. But with (3) kids absolutley no way would I be looking at these cars. Q7 sure..... I also own an Atlas which allowed me to use the SQ5 for work. (2) kids and an Sq5 when I have to use it, is not fun

[B8Phil]

Any issues with your Atlas? I see a ton of newer model year pre-owned which makes me nervous. I know there are a ton of complaints with the newer Tiguans having hesitation/acceleration issues.

[B8Phil]

Here are a few recent similar threads that answer most if not all your questions:
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ng-3-0T-vs-SQ5
https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...ne-3-0t-vs-SQ5

Thanks, man, this is helpful. I didn’t bother searching, but did scan a few pages back and must have overlooked.

[Novarider]

I recently went on a week long trip with 3 adults and an 11yo kid. We had plenty of room in my Avant (basically the same room as a Q5). I don't see how there wouldn't be enough room for 2 adults and 2 kids. Especially if you add a roof box for any extra stuff.

I've had 3 kids in the back just driving around town with plenty of room. They were out of car seat age but one was still in a booster.

[MSq5]

Brakes felt fine on the 2017 Q5 prem+ I took out the other day. I’d upgrade he pads/rotors when that time comes anyways, but it didn’t feel terrible with the OE setup.

No need to upgrade four pot OEM Brembos. Macan runs the same part numbers. S4 guys salivate to find our rotors and calipers for sale to upgrade from their weaker brakes. Just replace pads and rotors when the time comes with real Brembo pads and rotors of the same part number. I’m doing that right now.

[choppstixxx]

Just FYI, I just sold my Stage 2 A4 and the Q/SQ isn't any bigger.....

Meh I beg to differ, also came from a B8.5 A4. I feel the tall-ness of the Q5 makes for a roomier cabin, plus the hatch makes the cargo space larger than a trunk.
Here are the comparison of interior specs:

A4
Front Head Room: 40"
Front Shoulder Room: 55.5"
Front Leg Room: 41.3"

Rear Head Room: 37.5"
Rear Shoulder Room: 54.3"
Rear Leg Room: 35.2"

Cargo Capacity: 12.4 cu ft

(S)Q5
Front Head Room: 39.4"
Front Shoulder Room: 57.7"
Front Leg Room: 41"

Rear Head Room: 39"
Rear Shoulder Room: 56.4"
Rear Leg Room: 37.4"

Cargo Capacity: 12.4 cu ft

Looks like you gain a bit more space in the rear of the (S)Q5 vs. A4, but the front of the A4 is technically larger.

[ILVTRANCE]

Meh I beg to differ, also came from a B8.5 A4. I feel the tall-ness of the Q5 makes for a roomier cabin, plus the hatch makes the cargo space larger than a trunk.
Here are the comparison of interior specs:

A4
Front Head Room: 40"
Front Shoulder Room: 55.5"
Front Leg Room: 41.3"

Rear Head Room: 37.5"
Rear Shoulder Room: 54.3"
Rear Leg Room: 35.2"

Cargo Capacity: 12.4 cu ft

(S)Q5
Front Head Room: 39.4"
Front Shoulder Room: 57.7"
Front Leg Room: 41"

Rear Head Room: 39"
Rear Shoulder Room: 56.4"
Rear Leg Room: 37.4"

Cargo Capacity: 12.4 cu ft

Looks like you gain a bit more space in the rear of the (S)Q5 vs. A4, but the front of the A4 is technically larger.

Agreed! I came from a B8 A4 to a SQ5 and due to sitting taller the seats are closer to the wheel hence more back seat space. Also My car seat fits much better.

[arjun90]

Honestly, I don't think the 2015 Overlap test is as good as the 2009 test




vs

A 2016 or 2017 3.0T or SQ5 3.0T.
2.0Ts earlier than 2013 have engine issues.
3.0T earlier than 2016 have timing chain noise issue due to the upper tensioners.
2015s built after Jan 2015 have an revised front chassis structure for improved small-offset crash test performance.

[S4'ed]

Small Overlap is not the same as Moderate Overlap tests.
Small is more severe.

From IIHS.org
"The Audi Q5 was introduced in the 2009 model year. Beginning with 2015 models built after January 2015, the front-end and occupant compartment structure was reinforced to improve occupant protection in small overlap frontal crashes."

[arjun90]

Interesting, thanks for clarifying that, I'm not sure why the 2015+ model crumple more than older models
I know now the moderate and small overlap ratings differ, but why does the 2015+ models get an acceptable rating (instead of good for structure and safety cage)? Is it negligible?

Small Overlap is not the same as Moderate Overlap tests.
Small is more severe.

From IIHS.org
"The Audi Q5 was introduced in the 2009 model year. Beginning with 2015 models built after January 2015, the front-end and occupant compartment structure was reinforced to improve occupant protection in small overlap frontal crashes."

[Novarider]

The 2009 also had something on the barrier it hit. You can see it absorb some of the impact.

Modern cars are supposed to crumple. They are designed that way, the crumple absorbs the energy of the impact so less is transferred to the occupants.

[arjun90]

Haha, nothing can ever beat this,

The 2009 also had something on the barrier it hit. You can see it absorb some of the impact.

Modern cars are supposed to crumple. They are designed that way, the crumple absorbs the energy of the impact so less is transferred to the occupants.

In response to the small overlap test,

[Wannabeasq]

I have the h&r springs just installed, and feel the stock shocks are too firm.. what s your experience with the b8's . I'm considering getting them and was hoping to find them a bit softer than stock shocks.. thanks for your help//