Is a new SQ5 the right car for me?

[James280]

First post here, looking for some advice from the experts… you all. Our X5 lease is coming due in a few months and I’m strongly considering a new SQ5 to replace it – it will primarily be my wife’s car, but I’ll drive it too semi-regularly. We also have a new Q3, will be mostly our teenage kid’s car and we really like it, and a 2016 911 Targa 4S (my daily driver, but it’s in the garage for most of our north-east winter, hence the shares on the other two family cars).

I am also considering:

-Porsche Macan – but not sure I want a second Porsche and the cost premium (insurance, maintenance, etc.) that comes with it. Plus, it seems you get more for your money with the SQ5 vs it’s ‘platform cousin’, the Macan
-BMW X3 M40i – But we’ve had so many BMW’s, I’ve think I’ve had enough for now, and I prefer the Audi interiors. Another X5 is off the table, we don’t need that size anymore
-Land Rover Velar – I like this one, but my wife is iffy on it
-Mercedes something – no thanks, don’t want any of them

From reading the message boards, seems SQ5 owners are pretty satisfied. Would you buy again, do you have any regrets, are you happy with Audi’s service, what other advice do you have?

Finally, I’ll probably lease again – what are you getting on monthly lease payments – mid $600’s to $700’s, depending on trim and options? Mid $700’s fully loaded? Our local Audi dealer has a dozen or more in stock, so plenty of supply.

I appreciate any and all input.

[DOCEVG]

When it came time to replace our 2014 X3, we cross-shopped the X3 M40i and the SQ5. I wanted the X3, she wanted the SQ5. She won. We're happy.
Actually, I like the SQ5 a lot. Right size; plenty of performance; no issues yet (11k miles). Audi service has been decent. Would buy again.

[Mops@Nemesis]

The SQ5 provides a fantastic balance in regard to comfort, performance, build quality, looks, reliability etc. I've had my B9 SQ5 for nearly two years now, and have also had two B9 S4s. No issues, no complaints worth mention. Coming from the X5, and having the 911, you would enjoy Dynamic Steering, so try and snag one with that offering.

[spindlewood]

Take the time to spend in the cabin. Make sure the feel of luxury really suits you and especially her. The SQ5 is a lot of fun for an SUV and should be more nimble and responsive than the X5.

Not sure with the 2021 packages, but getting the S-Sport with Adaptive Air Suspension will make the ride very enjoyable. If you value a quiet ride, you will also want the Dual-pane acoustic glass for front side windows - not positive if that is in the Prestige only in 2021.

I never did love all the buttons on the Macan, but it was mainly the nickle and diming for every feature that turned me off. You can get a loaded SQ5 for close to the base price of the Macan and those extras are appreciated every day.

[James280]

Thank you all for your input. I'm pretty convinced the SQ5 is the right way to go.

[audi0to60]

I’m debating between an sq5 and an X5. Anyone have any experience with both?

I don’t really need the extra space but thought the X5 would be more luxurious and comfortable. For reference my current car is a bmw 340 6 speed and this is my first automatic + first suv.

[F10TT]

I’m debating between an sq5 and an X5. Anyone have any experience with both?

I don’t really need the extra space but thought the X5 would be more luxurious and comfortable. For reference my current car is a bmw 340 6 speed and this is my first automatic + first suv.

I went from a highly modified F80 to the SQ5 (with a brief stint in an Expedition in between) so I get where you're coming from.

The SQ5 and the are two completely different cars. As far as the interiors go, the SQ5 wins by a long long way especially with the new touch screen.

Ride quality is equal with the SQ in comfort without lowering the car...eh actually the BMW is a little better.

We were going to go with an M50i and there's no comparison between that trim level and the SQ...the BMW takes it by a mile until you hit a corner. Now that I'm running a Turbo Systems Stage 1 turbo they're equal in my opinion.

If you are looking strictly for more comfortable, a base 40i X5 is for you. But what sold me on the SQ was the fact that it could do everything...well that and I couldn't find an SQ7 in stock anywhere when I bought the SQ5.

[audi0to60]

Thanks that’s really helpful!

How did you option your SQ5? I’m considering the premium plus with fine Napa leather. Don’t think I need the adaptive suspension or Navi but may be convinced otherwise.

[F10TT]

Thanks that’s really helpful!

How did you option your SQ5? I’m considering the premium plus with fine Napa leather. Don’t think I need the adaptive suspension or Navi but may be convinced otherwise.

I lucked out and found my exact spec on a dealer lot.

Quantum Gray Premium Plus, Black Nappa, Sport Package, Air Suspension, Dynamic Steering, Carbon inlay, and it had PPF installed from the factory.