The 2026 Audi SQ5 Prestige combines luxury and sportiness into a compelling package, driven by a powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 engine that outputs 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. Featuring a genuine quad-tip exhaust setup, the SUV delivers a robust growl and sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, improving slightly upon its predecessor during track tests.
"The Audi SQ5 demonstrates good balance around our short circuit, but only once its transmission has been cheated into staying in the right gear," automotive test drivers noted, highlighting that while the dual-clutch automatic transmission excels under full throttle, it tends to upshift prematurely and resist downshifts in manual mode.
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SubscribeBeyond performance metrics, the SQ5 shines with its ride quality, featuring a standard adaptive air suspension that provides a silken ride in Comfort mode. Peak torque is available from just 1,700 rpm, ensuring lively city driving while keeping the cabin whisper-quiet even at freeway speeds.
Inside, the vehicle showcases Audi's "Vorsprung durch Technik" philosophy with a digital stage of screens and premium materials like carbon fiber and Nappa leather. However, extensive use of scratch-prone piano black plastic somewhat cheapens an otherwise attractive cabin.
Priced starting at $66,695 and reaching $76,270 as tested for the Prestige trim, the SQ5 undercuts some rivals like the BMW X3 M50 xDrive while offering a well-rounded mix of comfort, everyday practicality, and engaging driving dynamics.