2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 First Drive Review: A Dynamic Evolution in Luxury and Performance
Audi has long been a leader in the luxury SUV market, and with the arrival of the fully redesigned 2025 Q5 and SQ5, the brand is making a bold statement. These models are not mere facelifts or incremental updates—they are comprehensive overhauls that redefine what drivers can expect from a premium midsize SUV. From striking new design language to state-of-the-art infotainment and powerhouse engines, the 2025 Audi Q5 and its performance sibling, the SQ5, have been meticulously engineered to elevate the driving experience.
A New Era of Audi Design
The 2025 Audi Q5 introduces a fresh aesthetic that blends elegance with aggression. The front fascia now features a sharper grille design with mesh inserts that give the SUV a sportier stance. Flanked by slimmer, high-tech OLED headlights, the new face projects confidence and refinement. Audi’s signature four-ring logo remains front and center but is now complemented by sleeker lines that make the Q5 feel more sculpted and aerodynamic.
Along the sides, the Q5 has adopted a more athletic profile, particularly in its Sportback variant, which includes a sloping roofline that mimics the silhouette of a coupe. This styling change enhances the visual appeal of the SUV, giving it a dynamic look that stands out against more traditionally boxy rivals. At the rear, a continuous LED taillight bar stretches across the tailgate, creating a sense of width and symmetry. The SQ5, Audi’s performance-focused variant, amps things up with quad exhaust tips, a pronounced rear diffuser, and more aggressive body detailing.
Interior Innovation and Comfort
Step inside the 2025 Q5, and it’s immediately apparent that Audi has prioritized digital innovation and passenger comfort. The interior boasts a driver-centric cockpit featuring a high-resolution 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a massive 14.5-inch infotainment screen. The displays are seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, creating a futuristic yet user-friendly environment.
Audi also offers an optional 10.9-inch front passenger screen—a bold move that caters to both luxury and tech-savvy consumers. While some drivers may question the necessity of this screen, passengers will appreciate the ability to interact with navigation, media, and comfort features independently.
Materials throughout the cabin exude sophistication, with available options like Dinamica microfiber, sustainable Cascade fabric, and soft-touch plastics. The seats offer both support and plush cushioning, making long journeys enjoyable. The cabin is also quieter than ever, thanks to improved sound insulation and a refined chassis design. Subtle ambient lighting and minimalistic touch-capacitive controls round out the cabin’s modern feel, though traditionalists may miss the tactile nature of physical buttons.
Power and Performance Across the Board
Audi has equipped the 2025 Q5 with a variety of engine options to meet the needs of different markets and driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TFSI that delivers 204 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque. A similar diesel variant is available in certain regions, offering the same horsepower but higher torque at 400 Nm. Both engines are paired with Audi’s seven-speed S-Tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and come equipped with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that improves efficiency and throttle response.
However, the real excitement lies in the SQ5. Under the hood of this high-performance variant is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine (EA839), pushing out an impressive 367 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque. This setup catapults the SQ5 from 0 to 100 km/h in roughly 4.5 seconds, placing it firmly in the territory of performance SUVs. Quattro all-wheel drive comes standard, ensuring grip and agility in all driving conditions.
Audi’s decision to implement mild-hybrid technology across all variants not only contributes to better fuel economy but also enhances the overall driving experience. Drivers will notice smoother stop-start transitions, more responsive acceleration, and a reduction in overall emissions.
Smooth, Confident Ride and Handling
Driving dynamics have been fine-tuned to offer a blend of comfort and athleticism. The 2025 Q5 benefits from a stiffer chassis that shares architecture with the A5 sedan, leading to improved cornering stability and steering feedback. Standard suspension tuning offers a smooth, composed ride ideal for daily driving, while adaptive dampers are available for those who want a more tailored experience.
In the SQ5, Audi has dialed in the suspension for sportier performance. The ride is firmer, body roll is reduced, and the steering feels more direct. An available adaptive air suspension elevates this experience further, adjusting ride height and stiffness depending on the selected drive mode. Whether cruising in Comfort or pushing the limits in Dynamic mode, the SQ5 delivers an engaging and planted ride.
Next-Gen Technology and Infotainment
Audi’s MIB 3 platform powers the infotainment system in both the Q5 and SQ5, offering lightning-fast processing, crisp graphics, and seamless smartphone integration. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa voice control, and over-the-air updates ensure that the SUV stays connected and future-proof.
Advanced driver-assistance systems take center stage in the 2025 models. These include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, active lane keeping, traffic sign recognition, and a 360-degree camera system. A heads-up display is optional, projecting key information onto the windshield for increased driver focus and safety. Audi is positioning the Q5 to meet Level 2 autonomy standards, allowing for hands-free driving under specific conditions.
Passenger comfort is further enhanced by tri-zone climate control, ventilated and massaging seats, and a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system that delivers concert-level sound clarity. Storage compartments have been cleverly integrated, and rear-seat legroom is generous, making the Q5 suitable for both families and executives.
Practicality Meets Style
Beyond performance and tech, the 2025 Audi Q5 remains a highly practical SUV. The standard model provides up to 515 liters of cargo space, expandable to nearly 1,500 liters with the rear seats folded. The Sportback version sacrifices a bit of this capacity due to its sloping roofline but gains a more distinctive appearance that appeals to style-conscious buyers. Roof rails, a hands-free tailgate, and split-folding rear seats enhance the vehicle’s utility.
The flat load floor and wide trunk opening make it easy to load bulky items, while thoughtful features like underfloor storage and cargo nets help keep things organized. Whether it’s groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear, the Q5 is ready for whatever life throws your way.
Pricing, Trims, and Release Date
While official pricing will vary depending on region and configuration, industry experts anticipate the base 2025 Audi Q5 to start around $45,000 in the U.S. For those eyeing the SQ5’s performance and additional features, expect a price tag closer to $60,000. Audi plans to launch the 2025 Q5 and SQ5 in Spring 2025, with pre-orders likely to begin earlier depending on market demand.
Trims are expected to include Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige levels, with the SQ5 receiving its own specific equipment packages. Buyers can expect generous standard features across the board, though optional upgrades like the air suspension, larger wheels, and extended tech packages will be available à la carte or bundled into trim-based configurations.
Competitive Landscape
The luxury midsize SUV segment is fiercely competitive, and the 2025 Audi Q5 is entering the arena against formidable rivals like the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60, Lexus RX, and Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The SQ5 also competes with the performance variants of these models, including the BMW X3 M40i and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43.
What sets the Q5 apart is its blend of understated elegance, cutting-edge technology, and Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Where some competitors focus more heavily on either sportiness or comfort, the Q5 strikes a careful balance that appeals to a broader range of luxury SUV buyers.
Early Reactions and Verdict
Initial impressions from industry insiders and early reviewers suggest that Audi has nailed the formula. The design updates are being praised for their boldness and cohesion, while the driving dynamics are seen as a clear step forward. That said, some critics have raised concerns about the shift toward capacitive controls over physical buttons, especially for HVAC and infotainment functions. The optional passenger screen has also generated mixed reactions, with some calling it unnecessary and others appreciating the innovation.
Despite these minor polarizations, the 2025 Q5 and SQ5 appear poised to continue Audi’s success in the premium SUV category. They offer a compelling package that combines everyday usability, performance, and luxury into one refined vehicle.
Read: A Supercharged Steal? Audi’s V6 Luxury SUV for Around $20K
Comparative Feature Chart
Here’s a comparative feature chart for the 2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 to visually summarize the key differences and highlights:
| Category | 2025 Audi Q5 | 2025 Audi SQ5 |
| Engine | 2.0L TFSI / TDI (Mild Hybrid) | 3.0L Turbocharged V6 (Mild Hybrid) |
| Horsepower | ~204 hp | ~367 hp |
| Torque | 340–400 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Transmission | 7-speed S-Tronic | 8-speed Tiptronic |
| 0-100 km/h | ~7.1–7.5 seconds | ~4.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | ~210 km/h | ~250 km/h (electronically limited) |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD | Quattro AWD |
| Suspension | Standard / Optional Adaptive | Sport-tuned / Optional Adaptive Air Suspension |
| Infotainment | 14.5″ center screen + 11.9″ digital cluster | Same, plus optional 10.9″ passenger screen |
| Interior Materials | Recycled Cascade, Dinamica, Premium Leather options | Sport seats, unique trims, Dinamica microfiber |
| Cargo Capacity | 515L (up to ~1,500L with seats folded) | Slightly less in Sportback form |
| Launch Date | Spring 2025 | Spring 2025 |
| Expected Price (US) | From ~$45,000 | From ~$60,000 |
Conclusion
The 2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 mark a significant evolution for the brand. They reflect Audi’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and dynamic design without compromising on practicality or performance. For buyers seeking a luxury SUV that delivers on all fronts—whether it’s daily commuting, weekend getaways, or spirited driving—the Q5 family is a top contender.
With updated tech, powerful yet efficient drivetrains, and a reimagined interior and exterior, the new Q5 and SQ5 promise to be more than just successors—they’re torchbearers for the future of Audi’s luxury SUV lineup.
