AUDI Q5

Where Luxury Meets Performance:
Audi SQ5 SUV

December 28, 2018 by admin

2018 Audi SQ5 — The all-new Audi SQ5 is big on performance and luxury.

It isn’t too often that I get a performance vehicle, but when one arrives, I rub my hands in delicious anticipation of the drive ahead.

Most of my performance test models are coupes and sports cars, such as the Ford Mustang and Jaguar F-Type, or a hot sedan such as the Dodge Charger Hellcat. But now I’m starting to see “hotted up” utility vehicles, which makes sense as SUVs represent the fastest-growing segment.

If you’ve followed me for long, you know my preference for cars and pickup trucks over everything else. Alas, the market shift means I’ve had to adjust and that requires testing an endless stream of crossovers and other people movers. Happily, manufacturers understand that some customers still want performance and, to its credit, Audi is accommodating our need for speed with the SQ5.

2018 Audi SQ5 Overview

Based on the compact Q5 utility vehicle, the 2018 Audi SQ5 represents the performance side of the model line. It is the only Audi SUV line with a performance variant, with the latest-generation model introduced for the 2018 model year.

The current version replaced the previous supercharger with a turbocharger, giving this model a noticeable boost in torque along with a slight improvement in fuel efficiency. This all-wheel-drive model is still powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

2018 Audi SQ5 Like other Audi models, this one is available in three trims: Premium ($53,395), Premium Plus ($59,195), and Prestige ($63,095). Our prices are for the 2019 model as this is the one you’ll most likely find on dealer lots at press time. You’ll find various package options for further customization, depending on the trim.

For instance, the base model offers a Convenience Package ($1,500, keyless entry with push-button start, automatic dimming and power-folding side mirrors, driver’s memory seat, satellite radio, and Audi pre sense rear with side assist).

2018 Audi SQ5 The middle Premium Plus and top Prestige trims offer an S Sport Package ($3,000, red brake calipers, sport adaptive air suspension, sport rear differential). Also, a Black Optic Package ($600, 20-inch Anthracite wheels, summer performance tires, matte black roof rails, titanium black exterior trim).

My Prestige test model had more than $8,000 in upgrades, including the S Sport Package, Driver Assistance Package ($1,800), Fine Nappa Leather Interior ($1,250), Dynamic Steering ($1,150), the 21-inch Wheel Package ($1,000) and Carbon Atlas inlays ($500). If I were to build one, I would start at the Premium Plus level. Then again, the Prestige trim brings in the banging audio system, the leather upgrade and the driver assistance package.

Design Highlights

Based on the crisp, elegant look of the Audi Q5, the SQ5 brings in its own styling elements. That said, the differences are not readily apparent, especially to those not familiar with the brand’s lineup.

Beginning with the front fascia, the SQ5 has standard high-intensity density headlights or available LED lights. LED lights also fashion the rear. Special alloy wheels set this model apart and exterior badging is also unique to this trim.

Inside, the changes are much more apparent, beginning with the fixed display screen on top of the center stack. In most other Audi models the screen retracts, while this one stays in place. This trim also comes with a three-spoke multifunction flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, diamond-stitched front sport seats, aluminum inlays, and aluminum touches.

As for passenger comfort, tall passengers may find the rear seating area small. It is most suitable for two passengers, not three.

2018 Audi SQ5

Safety & Technology

Audi loads the SQ5 with top equipment, including a virtual cockpit, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, 4G LTE technology, and Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto smartphone integration. The cockpit display is a gem as it supplies a sport display mode, which brings the tachometer and speedometer to the front.

As for driver assistance systems, Audi includes adaptive cruise control, an automatic emergency braking system, side assist with blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. These are features which typically accompany top models such as the SQ5.

Performance Matters: 2018 Audi SQ5

The chief selling point for the Audi SQ5 is its performance. Sure, exterior and interior styling and amenities are important, as is technology and safety. But make no mistake about this: the only reason to consider the SQ5 over the standard Q5 is that you put a greater value on performance.

Happily, the 2018 SQ5 does not disappoint. In fact, it thrills — and for an SUV that’s no small matter.

To begin, the SQ5 has a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with an output of 354 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. While horsepower stays the same for the current model, you’ll notice a 23 pound-feet improvement in torque. That’s what happens when you swap out the previous supercharger for a turbocharger.

2018 Audi SQ5

Engage the ignition and a quiet rumble coarses through the SQ5’s body. Move the transmission into gear and step on the gas pedal, and the turbos quickly spool up. There is generous amounts of energy at hand and, thanks to low-end torque, it keeps on giving. Audi says this SUV runs the 0-60 mph sprint in about 5 seconds and that’s in line with what we experienced.

Weighted steering supplies the connectivity to the road you want. This SUV shines on the straightaway, delivering robust power and much more when needed. On curvy roads the SQ5 acquits itself as it hangs with every twist and turn. Yes, some body roll is evident — that’s to be expected with any high-profile vehicle. Happily, the rolls do little to negate the fun.

One nice touch with the SQ5 is the available rear mechanical limited-slip differential. It sends power to the outside wheels when cornering, which is what gives this SUV a planted feel. The air suspension system is another plus and it is adjustable. Here, ground clearance can lower to 7 inches from the standard 8.2 inches, for a closer connection to the road. Again, this is no sports car, but the performance elements are a welcome change.

Parting Thoughts: Audi SQ5

The list of Audi SQ5 competitors is quite small and includes such models as the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 and the Porsche Macan S. The latter is, of course, a Volkswagen Group model as is the Audi. You can also consider the Jaguar F-Pace S.

A performance SUV is a natural complement to Audi’s RS models. The SQ5 clearly demonstrates that a high profile and strong performance are not mutually exclusive. You’ll pay the price to acquire one, but that shouldn’t surprise anyone looking for a luxury, performance SUV.

2018 Audi SQ5

Sticker price from $54,300 (plus an $995 destination fee)
Price as tested: from $68,175 (Prestige)
Seats 5 occupants
3.0-liter turbocharged V6 gas engine
354 horsepower @ 5,400 to 6,400 rpm
369 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,370 to 4,500 rpm
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 111.2 inches
Length: 183.9 inches
Width: 74.5 inches
Height: 65.3 inches
Passenger volume: NR
Storage volume: 26.8/60.4 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
Curb weight: From 4,398 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good; headlights marginal
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 12 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: San José Chiapa, Mexico

2018 Audi SQ5

See Also — Swank SUV: 2017 Audi Q7

Confirmed: Audi Q2 Arrives in 2016

December 29, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

Yet another SUV model line is planned for Audi. At the same time, its best selling Q5 will be replaced by a new model.

Is there a tipping point for SUVs? The segment certainly continues to grow, accounting for approximately 40 percent of all new vehicle purchases in the United States. Mainstream and luxury marques alike continue to add them, filling nearly every hole — real or conceived — in the segment.

New Audi Q2, Updated Q5

Audi, like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, has the segment covered. But Audi still sees room for growth and will introduce an all-new model in 2016, the Q2. In addition, the next generation Audi Q5 will also debut, giving this German luxury brand one of the freshest SUV model lines in the industry.

Audi Q2

Up next: Audi Q2 SUV.

Yesterday, the Audi Group outlined its plans for the coming year with the company’s CEO, Robert Stadler, stating that the automaker will be “continuing with high levels of investment in future technologies to enhance [its] strong position.”

Near-Term Investment Plans

A big chunk of that $3 billion euro investment will come in the form of alternative drive systems, including its first large-series battery-electric vehicle, based on the Audi e-tron Quattro concept. Audi’s already expansive product line will continue to expand and include 60 different vehicles by 2020.

Not much is known about the Audi Q2 although sources such as Autoweek claim that the vehicle is based on the Audi Crosslane Concept, which is based on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform. That platform underpins a number of models, including the Volkswagen Golf. The Audi Q2 might be considered a competitor to the Mini Countryman.

Second-Generation Audi Q5

The second-generation Audi Q5 (the brand’s best selling model) will arrive for the 2017 model year, replacing the first-generation SUV after an eight-year model run. A 2013 refresh brought in several changes and added a high-performance SQ5 edition. The Volkswagen’s Group diesel crisis means only gasoline engines are currently available, effectively inhibiting sales.

One issue Audi has been slow to resolve is its USB connectivity or lack thereof. Audi does make it possible to connect your smartphone, but only if your personal product and that cable connect — good luck with that, my iPhone 5 simply has no compatible cable.

Sixth Straight Year of Sales Gains

Despite not offering diesel products over the past several months, Audi has managed to enjoy increased market share. In November, its sales rose by 0.4 percent, but was good enough to record its 59th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases. Through November, US sales are up 11.7 percent, outpacing the industry. At this pace, Audi should enjoy its sixth straight year of sales growth and top 200,000 units for the first time.

Despite the continued gain, Audi will remain in a distant fourth place in 2015 among luxury makes, finishing behind BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz, with each marque selling at least 325,000 vehicles per year in the US. New product from Cadillac and Hyundai’s soon to arrive Genesis luxury brand should make things interesting these next few years.

See Also — Crossing Over With the Audi Q3

Audi Q2 photo copyright Audi AG.

Turbo CUV: 2015 Audi Q5 TDI Quattro

February 6, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

Medium range crossover combines performance with efficiency.

2015 Audi Q5

The recent arrival of an Audi Q5 TDI Quattro in my drive marked the third of three crossover utility vehicles I’ve received from this German luxury manufacturer within the past year.

The exquisite seven-passenger Q7 arrived first, what serves the full-size end of the segment. Later in the year, an all-new five-passenger Q3 arrived, an elegant vehicle designed for compact luxury CUV shoppers. But it was the five-passenger Q5 that provided me with the best week of driving thrills, by virtue of the 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 diesel engine powering its medium frame.

Quattro Meets Turbodiesel

The 2015 Audi Q5 comes with standard all-wheel drive Quattro; only the smaller Q3 offers with either front- or all-wheel drive. As I have adroitly enumerated in my previous write ups, all-wheel drive is the superior choice — not just for on-road traction, but for optimum steering and handling. Think “quattro” and you have a permanent all-wheel drive system — one that is always at work. In some other vehicles, all-wheel drive only kicks in as you need it. Yes, there is a difference, one best articulated in every twist, turn, rise and fall of the pavement.

The advantage of the Audi Q5 depends principally on how you examine it.

First, it seats five people just like the smaller Q3, but more comfortably so. I like to think that Q3 buyers acquire one to serve two people or perhaps two parents with their young children in car seats. Beyond that, rear legroom will have you feeling pinched, especially as the children grow.

Second, it offers the same larger engines as the Q7 as well as the four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine found in the Q3. Audi, in its infinite wisdom, only offers the larger V-6 diesel in the Q5. And that’s where the fun begins!

2015 Audi Q5

But first, let’s look at what you receive in the 2015 Audi Q5. This model is available in three trim levels: Premium ($39,300), Premium Plus ($42,200) and Prestige ($52,900). Select the Premium edition and the four-cylinder, turbocharged gasoline engine is your solitary choice. All three engine choices, including the “four” and a pair of turbocharged diesel and gasoline V-6 engines, are available with the Premium Plus. The Prestige offers only the larger engines.

My weekly driver was powered by the turbodiesel V-6 and outfitted with all-wheel drive; it had a base sticker price of $47,000. Its total price came in at $55,625, due chiefly to a $4,000 technology package and a $2,300 luxury package. A savory Bang & Olufsen sound system added $850 — that’s one upgrade I strongly recommend.

Uniform Style Language

Across the Q3-Q5-Q7 triumvirate, the styling is constant, although there are some differences. The overall design composition is uniform, with the waterfall grilles on the Q3 and Q5 making for the closest match. Audi’s latest LED daytime running lights arrangement has those lights completely encompassing the lighting assemblies front and back.

The Audi Q5 has a graceful persona with a flowing look that extends from the grille, up the hood line, across the windshield and roof line, and down the liftgate. Not especially muscular, yet athletic, the Q5 moves lithely like a ballerina until a sudden kick tells you that it means business.

2015 Audi Q5

And that business is symptomatic to the turbodiesel, what produces 240 horsepower and a whopping 420 foot-pounds of torque. Its twist kicks in early and low in the rpm curve, providing an extra boost before you expect it. Be prepared here: you may find yourself tooling down the interstate entrance ramp at a cop-car-pull-me-over speed.

Audi pairs the Q5’s engines with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. You will operate it in automatic mode much of the time, but if clutchless shifting is your fixation, then have at it. Personally, I want the real deal — give me a true manual gearbox and the attendant clutch pedal — maybe not in a utility vehicle, but definitely in a sport sedan or coupe.

With a utility vehicle, you will also have at least some pitching and rolling as you navigate the twists and turns. The Audi Q5 makes short work of it all as it hugs the corners and navigates its turns with authority. No, you are not driving a low-slung sport coupe, but you are accessing one crossover that has fun factored in. Just be certain that the kiddies are tightly buckled in back there!

2015 Audi Q5 TDI Quattro

View manufacturer details and pricing

2015 Audi Q5

Polished, Luxuriant Cabin

Inside, you enjoy the anticipated Audi craftsmanship that this brand exemplifies. And with an uncluttered dashboard at that.

The instrument panel features two large analog displays —odometer and speedometer — and two much smaller analog displays for oil pressure and fuel. Strategically centered is the digital driver’s information center, what you control with a steering-wheel mounted switch.

The center console has the requisite display and, notably, Audi seems to be moving away from the unit that either was fixed to the top of the instrument panel or quickly emerged once the ignition was activated. No matter, the look is a clean one, with orange and white lettering on the blackest of backgrounds. You govern the panel with a knob situated between the seats.

Underneath the display are vents, a multimedia system and switches for the climate control system, including heating and cooling switches for the front seats.

2015 Audi Q5

Connectivity Issues and an App

Audi still does not make it easy to connect some smartphones for recharging purposes. Specifically, you must have the correct cable connection, but that just does not work out for me. However that may change as Audi, new for 2015, released an “Audi MMI connect App” to sync directly with the available MMI navigation system. For example, the app ties in with the owner’s myAudi account to stream music, to help you find where your car is parked and provide destination support. Given that I do not have an account, I did not test it.

I have yet to meet an Audi that failed on the fit and finish front — each model is a mark of impeccable craftsmanship, with a tasteful fusion of authentic dark brown wood inlays, chic aluminum trim, Milano leather seating and choice soft touch materials. Drive this model at night and the interior is peppered with red highlights —easy on the eyes, but enchanting nonetheless.

Audi provides a crossover that comes well equipped. Every model is outfitted with three-zone climate control, power accessories, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a rear cargo cover, four 12-volt outlets, ambient lighting, leather touches and four cup holders and four bottle holders.

2015 Audi Q5

Move up to the Premium Plus and procure keyless entry and push button start and stop, heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. The Prestige edition extends the luxury quotient to its zenith by bringing in adaptive xenon plus headlights, LED daytime running lights and tail lamps, MMI navigation, manual rear sunshades, parking assist and a rear view camera.

Additional Crossover Considerations

Beyond the Q triad, Audi does offer other crossovers for your consideration, including a hybrid variant of this very same Q5. Yet another variant, the SQ5, brings optimum performance to the line with the specialized styling befitting a sport edition. Consequently, you may find yourself wrestling with your choices as nearly every utility vehicle niche has been filled by Audi.
2015 Audi Q5

2015 Audi Q5 TDI Quattro

Sticker price from $47,000
Price as tested: from $55,625
Seats 5 occupants
3.0-liter 24-valve V-6 turbodiesel engine
240 horsepower @ 3,750 to 4,000 rpm
428 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,750 to 2,250 rpm
3.27 inches bore by 3.60 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 16:8-to-1
8-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 110.5 inches
Length: 182.6 inches
Width: 74.7 inches
Height: 65.2 inches
Passenger volume: 101.5 cubic feet
Storage volume: 29.1/57.3 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 4,400 pounds
EPA: 24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway
Diesel fuel
Fuel tank: 19.8 gallons
Curb weight: From 4,475 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 12 years/Unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Ingolstadt, Germany

Porsche Macan Set for Los Angeles Introduction

November 11, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

German automaker Porsche will be very busy at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show this month. The company will be in California to make two world premieres and three North American debuts, including the Porsche Macan, a compact sport utility vehicle. The small SUV represents Porsche’s fifth model line, entering one of the fastest growing vehicle segments.

The 2014 Porsche Macan crossover SUV.

California Market Penetration

Porsche will also debut the 911 Turbo Cabriolet and the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet models. Its other North American debuts are the Porsche Panamera Turbo S and the Porsche Turbo S Executive. The two Panamera models will make their world debuts earlier in the day at the Tokyo Motor Show.

California is an important market for Porsche with the Los Angeles area alone accounting for 17 percent of all the vehicles its sells in the United States. That market penetration has led Porsche to begin building an experience center, what will include when completed a world class test track and handling course. It is also destined to become the new home of Porsche MotorSport North America. The facility and motorsport headquarters will be located in Carson, Calif.

Porsche Macan: Compact Crossover SUV

The Porsche Macan joins the Cayenne as the brand’s second SUV. It is expected to carry a starting price around $40,000, making it the most affordable of all Porsche models. And that affordability has a purpose: Porsche expects that the Macan will become its best-selling model, a volume seller that could help the brand reach 200,000 annual units sold by 2018, up from 141,000 units in 2012, notes the Wall Street Journal. Porsche is owned by Volkswagen AG, a company on a quest to become the largest volume automaker in the world.

The Macan becomes the third non sports car model in the Porsche line. In 2002, Porsche enthusiasts groaned when the Cayenne was introduced and once again expressed their disapproval in 2009 upon the Panamera sedan’s debut. Both models have bolstered the brands sales, but at the cost of exclusivity, what brand devotees prize.

Competition and Platform Underpinnings

The compact luxury SUV segment accounts for more than 200,000 US sales alone with the BMW X3 one of the better selling models. It is the X3 that the Porsche Macan is targeting, a vehicle that topped 35,000 US sales in 2012. Other competitors include the Mercedes-Benz GLK, the Range Rover Evoque, and the Infiniti EX35.

The Porsche Macan is underpinned by the same platform that powers the Audi Q5. It is a crossover SUV, which means that it is of unibody construction, not the truck-like layout of older SUVs.

Two gasoline engines are expected to be offered in the US: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder and a supercharged V-6 engine making about 300 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available. We’ll have to wait until its Los Angeles Auto Show debut to learn if AWD will be standard. Likely, we’ll see a diesel model added a year or two out.

Los Angeles Auto Show

The L.A. Auto Show sets off a string of important North American auto shows that run through April. After L.A’s turn, Detroit will hold the North American International Auto Show in Jan. The Chicago Auto Show is held in Feb, and the New York International Auto Show wraps things up in April. Each show will feature the latest 2014 models, 2015 debuts and a host of concept vehicles. Auto Trends plans to serve up details for all the top models as each show is held.

Porsche Macan photo courtesy of Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

Further Porsche Reading

Porsche Cayenne: Generation Next

Emotive: Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Raleigh Art Museum Opens Porsche Exhibit

50 Years of the Porsche 911

Audi Seeks to Close the Luxury Brand Gap

May 6, 2013 by admin Leave a Comment

In Mexico for the ground breaking of Audi’s first manufacturing plant in North America. Pictured from from left to the right: Frank Dreves, Audi Board Member for Production, Ildefonso Guajarda Villarreal, Mexican Economics Minister, Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, Rafael Moreno Valle, Governor of the State of Puebla, and Filogonio Vargas Torres, Mayor of San José Chiapa.

Audi, the German luxury marque, is on a roll. Three times since Dec. 2012 its sales have topped 13,000 units, putting it on a path that it expects will one day enable it to overtake market leading BMW.

Luxury Market Competitors

Audi will also have to overtake Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Acura a long the way and hold off surging Cadillac, but it does have an ace in its sleeve that will be pulled out in a few years: a Mexican factory with a build capacity of 150,000 units. This past weekend executives from Audi broke ground for its San Jose Chaipa facility, the first Audi manufacturing plant in North America. Likely, most of the production capacity for the Mexican plant will serve the US market.

Audi is on pace to sell 150,000 vehicles this year after topping the 100,000 unit mark in 2010. Even if Audi doesn’t grow for a few years, which is highly unlikely, it will sell at least 300,000 models in 2016 with the addition of the Mexican plant. Based on 2012 figures, that number would put it in first place ahead of the pack.

Monetary Fluctuations

Building Audis in North America will put the brand on a level playing field with its German rivals. Both BMW and Mercedes-Benz have long built vehicles in the United States while Audi has had to rely exclusively on imports. The vagaries of foreign exchange markets also means that Audi has to weather monetary fluctuations that often work against European manufacturers. With a sizable part of its capacity coming from lower wage Mexico, the money pressure will be eased considerably.

The Audi Q5 is the model slated for the Mexican plant with additional crossover SUVs possibly in the works reports Bloomberg. By 2020, Audi expects to sell more than 2 million units worldwide, with the brand providing a significant amount of the funding its parent Volkswagen Group is relying upon to further its growth. Volkswagen manages 12 brands with the eponymous Volkswagen brand outselling the other brands combined. Asia and North America are providing the best growth opportunities for this automaker.

Audi: King of the World

In 2008, Volkswagen announced that it was aiming to take over the top car manufacturing position in the world, held by Toyota and General Motors most recently. Group sales continue to rise rapidly and the company may move on top by 2014 if not 2013. The A4 and current Q5 are its strongest sellers with significant growth coming from other models including A5, A6, A8 and Q7 models.

Photo courtesy of Audi of America, Inc.