As we’ve already reported, an all-new Q5 will be unveiled later this year. It’ll come with fresh styling, more kit and new engines – but until that car arrives, Audi will wring every last bit of life out of its existing mid-size SUV.
That’s where this new SQ5 Plus comes into play. The standard model uses a six-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine that sends 322bhp to all four-wheels using Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel drive system. This Plus variant ups the ante slightly, boasting an extra 13bhp (up to 335bhp) and 50Nm of torque (now 700Nm). That does nothing to the car’s 0-62mph time – which remains a sprightly 5.1 seconds – but allegedly makes it more flexible at the top end.
In addition to the power boost, Audi has also installed a sports differential on the rear axle, which actively distributes power between the driven wheels. You’d have to drive the two cars back-to-back to notice any changes, and in all honesty, only the handiest drivers will be able to decipher the differences.
The strong and powerful V6 diesel engine still sends the SQ5 down the road with suitable shove, and there’s plenty in reserve for quick overtakes. It’s considerably faster in a straight line than the Porsche Macan S Diesel, leaving you headed toward illegal speeds before you can blink. But it can’t match the Macan in the corners. In fact, with the new Jaguar F-Pace setting such a high bar in our recent test, the Audi SQ5 is really starting to show its age.
The steering is direct, but it’s too light and comes almost devoid of feedback. As in all S models, drivers can tweak the engine, gearbox and steering response using the Drive Select button on the centre console, but it makes little difference to the car’s responses. Grip is good, though, and the ride still compliant – even on rougher roads.
The biggest difference comes when you consider the new car’s kit list. Audi is asking an additional £6,370 for this Plus variant, which for a few extra horsepower is quite a sting. However, if you don’t want a brand-new Dacia Duster with the change, you’ll benefit from 21-inch alloy wheels, a gloss black exterior pack, diamond-stitched leather seats and a powered tailgate.
It’s a shame, then, that the SQ5 still gets Audi’s dated infotainment system and the standard car’s dull-looking dashboard. The Q5 used to be the class benchmark, but with the new Audi A4 and TT looking so classy it’s easy to feel short changed. The normal SQ5 doesn’t even get sat-nav, though, so it’s pleasing to see MMI Navigation Plus has been included as standard on this new Plus model.
While you’ll pay more upfront for the SQ5 Plus, you won’t suffer any additional pain at the pumps. The car manages the same 42.8mpg and 174g/km CO2 emissions as the standard SQ5, and Audi even claims slightly better urban consumption thanks to the improved low-down grunt.
Practicality and bootspace are unchanged, too, with enough room in the rear for three tall adults.
- Price: £51,850
- Engine: 3.0-litre 6cyl diesel
- Power: 335bhp/700Nm
- Transmission: Eight-speed auto, four-wheel drive
- 0-62mph: 5.1 seconds
- Top speed: 155mph
- Fuel economy/CO2: 42.8mpg, 174g/km
- On sale: Now