Review
Audi SQ5 plus
Even as a basic version, the Audi SQ5 is anything but an everyday SUV. Now there is also a “plus” version with even more power and a slightly cooler look. We went out with this 3.0 biturbo.
Plus
The Audi SQ5 plus is the fastest version of the SQ5. The basic version has about 326 hp. In the “plus” version you get a little more, namely 340 hp. If you accelerate, you temporarily get even more power through the overboost function, up to a peak of 360 hp. The Audi SQ5 plus has a 2,967 cc biturbo V6 diesel engine with six cylinders. This also delivers a power of 340 hp a max. torque of over 700 Nm. The SQ5 has an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and also has the Quattro system. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h and the sprint to 100 km/h takes just 5.1 seconds. The base price of the Audi SQ5 plus is 72,190 euros.
Black
Externally you can recognize the plus version by numerous nice accents. For example, the exterior mirrors, the roof spoiler and the rear diffuser are finished in glossy black. For the frame of the grille, the plate holder, the grille of the radiator and the roof rails, you can choose a version in glossy or matte black.
You also get sporty accents in the interior. The instruments have been given the specific look of the S models, namely white needles against a gray dial. You also get electrically adjustable sports seats upholstered in nappa leather with a diamond pattern. Furthermore, the interior features accents in brushed aluminum and the pedals and footrest are made of stainless steel.
Quattro
The SQ5 plus is equipped with Quattro, Audi’s permanent all-wheel drive system. During normal driving, 40% of the power is sent to the front wheels and 60% to the rear wheels. If appropriate, the majority of the power can be automatically sent to the axle with the most grip. This also makes the car go through the bends more smoothly and is also more stable on the road.
The SQ5 also received a sports suspension. This lowers the car by about 30 mm. For footwear, the SQ5 received handsome 21-inch wheels with 5 spokes and a glossy black finish. The brake calipers stand out with a striking red sporty color.
Driving experience
A sporty car also needs a sporty soundtrack. On the SQ5 this comes from a system of 4 exhausts and sounds growling with a deep tone, even when you rev the engine high. You can drive this car sportily, but it is certainly equally suitable for everyday use. The car feels versatile, especially thanks to the Audi drive select system. This allows you to change settings such as the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. You can choose between “car” for weekday use. “Dynamic” is suitable for when you want to drive sporty. You choose “Efficiency” for the best possible consumption and you can also personalize the car settings via “individual”. In terms of power, the SQ5 certainly has plenty under the hood. This SUV can also go uphill well. It is in such driving conditions that you feel that this diesel has enormous torque.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an SUV that packs a punch and feels like a sports car, the SQ5 should definitely be on your shortlist. The car has enormous torque and more than enough power, but also offers all the comfort for daily use. Overall, this car looks good, both inside and out from the outside. On the left and right you can of course see that it is a basic model that has been around for a while.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
