On twisty mountain roads, the 2020 SQ5 feels more like a sports sedan than a crossover SUV-KBB.com
The 3.0L V6 Motor of the 2020 Audi SQ5 ranks as one of the most powerful motors in its class. It accelerates quickly and is able to deliver maximum torque at a low rev range. Audi’s famed TFSI tech allows for lower turbo lags and better power delivery down the rev range. On the other hand, the tried and tested Quattro AWD system ensures that the power generated from the Motor is properly orchestrated to all four wheels depending on the situation and the demand.
The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth and swift in terms of shifting which delivers a great driving experience. The DSG unit is one of the fastest shifters in the segment and has been tuned for even quicker responses in the SQ5.
Models
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Audi SQ5 3.0L Premium AWD
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BMW X3 M40i
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Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG*
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Porsche Macan GTS*
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MSRP
|
$53,395
|
$55,645
|
$57,245
|
$69,950
|
Engine
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3.0L TFSI V6
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Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-6 3.0L
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Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded V-6 3.0 L
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Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded V-6 3.0L
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Transmission
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8 speed DCT
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8 Speed Auto
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AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed
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7 Speed PDK
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Horsepower
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354hp@5400rpm
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355hp @ 5,500 rpm
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362hp @ 5,500 rpm
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360hp @ 6,000 rpm
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Torque
|
369ft-lbs@1370rpm
|
369 lb.-ft. @ 1,520 rpm
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384 lb.-ft. @ 2,500 rpm
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369 lb.-ft. @ 1,650 rpm
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*-2019 Model used for reference
All the cars featured above come with a V6 unit under their hoods. Even their power figures are closely matched with each other. The Macan and the GLC 43 AMG stack up head-to-head in terms of numbers. However, if observed closely, the Merc just inches ahead of the Porsche but then the Porsche has an upper hand as the maximum torque kicks in at a very low RPM. The SQ5 and X3 also narrate a similar story as the former two opponents.
Acceleration
The SQ5 delivers rapid acceleration from the smallest of throttle inputs. It goes from 0-60mph in 5.1 seconds and in the quarter-mile race, the SUV achieves the feat in an astounding 13.5 seconds. The DSG further adds to the quickness of the car because of low transmission losses and quicker shifts.
While these were just numbers, in real life, the throttle pedal of the SQ5 is too sensitive. With the peak torque kicking at almost idling RPMs, this could get a little scary in traffic conditions. Thankfully, you can set the crawling speed of the vehicle with steering mounted controls in order to ensure, that the vehicle keeps a leash on those horses unless you slam the pedal down.
Models
|
Audi SQ5 Premium
|
BMW X3 M40i
|
Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG*
|
Porsche Macan GTS*
|
0-60 MPH
|
5.1
|
4.6 sec
|
4.8 sec
|
5.0 sec
|
Quarter mile
|
13.5
|
13.4 sec
|
13.4 sec
|
13.6 sec
|
Engine
|
3.0L V6
|
3.0L
|
3.0L
|
3.0L
|
Curb Weight (lbs.)
|
4321
|
4317
|
4145
|
4178
|
Emission
(Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
|
7.4
|
7.7
|
8.8
|
9.3
|
The BMW X3 M40i has the best acceleration of the lot and takes just 4.6 seconds to breach the 60mph mark. Even in terms of emission, the BMW X3 M40i is the most environment-friendly vehicle. The GLC 43 AMG is slower by twentieth of a second to 60 MPH but both, the BMW and Merc clear the quarter-mile mark in 13.4 seconds. The GLC's Biturbo setup sure pulls great beyond triple-digit speeds. The same goes for the VW sisters. The Porsche sprints to 60 MPH quicker than the Audi, but then the story changes at the quarter-mile mark.
Ride and Handling
Getting behind the steering of the SQ5, you must already have some expectations with it on the sportiness front. Yes, it is agile and quick and everything you expected. However, what will surprise you is how well it maintains composure for city rides, thanks to the adaptive air suspension setup. The throttle is a bit snatchy but you'll surely get a hang of it in a while.
Come to spirited driving, the SQ5 surely impresses us with its good body control and grip over the road. However, the steering might feel a bit less responsive in corners. Riding over uneven and bumpy surfaces won’t be an obstacle due to the marvelous ground clearance (8.2inches) of the SQ5 which is the largest in its class.
You can opt for the optional adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning to ease up the driving. The car offers six driving modes: Auto, Dynamic, Comfort, Individual, All road and Lift/Off-road. These numerous variations give the rider a lot of options to choose their most suitable adjustments as per their needs.
Braking
The 2020 Audi SQ5 brakes as quickly as it gathers pace. Courtesy of big brake rotors and a well-tuned ABS and ESC program, the SQ5 comes to a dead halt in no time. What is furthermore impressive is the fact there is little nose dive or loss of grip while braking and the ESC, makes the SUV’s tail and body maintain a linear path rather than leaving a wobbly trail of burnt rubber.
Although we don't have the exact numbers, but we believe that the SQ5 will adhere to its genes that the past generations were proud of. In terms of feel, you are always connected to the road even when you slam the brakes down. Yes, the pedal is a bit squishy and we liked it better in the Merc GLC 43 AMG but the bite is pretty confident that gradually increases with their application.
Model
|
Audi SQ5 Premium
|
BMW X3 M40i
|
Mercedes Benz GLC 43 AMG *
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Porsche Macan GTS*
|
Brake Front (in.)
|
13.3
|
13.7
|
14.2
|
14.2
|
Brake Rear (in.)
|
13
|
13.5
|
12.6
|
13.0
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60-0 MPH (ft.)
|
N/A
|
109
|
N/A
|
112
|
Speaking of the competition, the rivals aren’t far behind either. All the SUV’s in this comparison are separated by each other by just 1ft of distance and that showcases the amount of importance, given to braking performance. The Audi is, however, the heaviest of the lot and might get overpowered by the rivals here.