2012 Audi SQ5 3.0L biTDi Quattro 8AT AWD (313 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Audi introduced the SQ5 in 2013, trying to win the hearts of those who craved for hot-hatches but still needed more room for the family.

The German automaker offered the SQ5 powered by a gasoline or a diesel engine. The former was created for those willing to hear the whining sound of a supercharger, while the latter was destined for those looking for more smiles per mile to the gallon. Nevertheless, both versions shared similar underpinnings and unique aesthetic upgrades compared to the regular Q5. Still, it didn’t look that much different on the outside from its standard siblings but fitted with the S-Line package. Yet, it provided a better interior and higher performance.

Audi improved the look of the SQ5 compared with its non-S siblings by lowering the ground clearance by 30 mm (1.8″). Moreover, it added a set of 20″ light-alloy wheels with an option for a set of 21 inches. Furthermore, the front fascia was slightly different, with the broad single-frame grille surrounded by a chromed rim and adorned with platinum gray horizontal slats and the SQ5 badge. The back of the car also showed some character with its silver underbody shield and the four oval exhausts that flanked it.

Inside, the carmaker mixed luxury with sportiness nicely by wrapping the cabin in leather and offering a set of sports seats at the front. In the back, there was room for three grown-ups, yet the middle-seated one had trouble finding a place to place their feet due to the transmission tunnel.

Powering this compact upscale crossover was either a supercharged gasoline engine or a turbo-diesel. Both versions featured a similar three-liter displacement and were paired with a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox that sent power in all corners. In specific countries, only the oil burner was available.