Audi Sq5 problems
The Audi Q5 is a series of compact luxury crossover SUVs produced by the German luxury car manufacturer Audi from 2008. The original first-generation (Typ 8R) model was the third member of the B8 family to be released after the Audi A5 and fourth-generation A4, all being based on the Audi MLB platform. The second generation Q5 (Typ 80A) debuted in 2016 and shares the Audi MLB Evo platform with the corresponding B9 versions of the A4 and A5.
First generation (Typ 8R; 2008)
Audi Cross Cabriolet quattro concept (2007)
A concept vehicle for the then upcoming Q5, this was a 2-door convertible with a 3.0 TDI engine rated at 240 PS (177 kW; 237 hp) and 500 N⋅m (369 lbf⋅ft) torque, quattro permanent four wheel drive, 8-speed automatic transmission, Copper Sunset body, LED headlights, 21-inch wheels with 265/35R21 tyres, seats with White Stone leather upholstery, MMI, 505W Bang & Olufsen sound system and internet radio, CDC (continuous damping control) shock absorbers, electric ride height adjustment (40 mm), 380/356 mm front/rear ceramic brake discs with 6-piston monobloc aluminium front, and floating rear callipers, Audi Drive Select. The vehicle was unveiled at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Initial version
Q5 (2008)
The vehicle was unveiled at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, and later at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Early models include the 2.0 TFSI quattro (211PS), 2.0 TDI quattro (170PS), 3.0 TDI quattro.
Initial vehicle models for US, Canada & Brazil include the 3.2 FSI.
The Q5 commenced shipments in October 2008 for Europe, and in the first quarter of 2009 for North America.
The US model went on sale in March 2009 as a 2009 model year vehicle. Early models include 3.2 FSI quattro and the 2.0 TFSI quattro (211PS) was added in 2011 model year.
Indian models went on sale in June 2009, and were initially built by Audi's Ingolstadt facility, but are now being built at its Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India plant. Launch models include 3.0 TDI, 2.0 TFSI (211 PS).
Middle East models went on sale in 2009 Q2. Launch models include 2.0 TFSI (211 PS), 3.2 FSI.
Japanese models include 2.0 TFSI quattro (211 PS), 3.2 FSI quattro.
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Audi Sq5 model years
Common Audi Sq5 problems
The Audi Q5, a luxury compact SUV, has been known to have several common problems across various model years, based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Excessive oil consumption: The 2011 Q5, along with other Audi models equipped with turbocharged engines, struggled with excessive oil consumption. This issue was the subject of a lawsuit, and while Audi did not admit fault, it highlights a potential problem for those considering this model year.
- Defects in the Start-Stop system: Owners of 2017-2020 Q5 models have reported problems with the vehicle's Start-Stop system, including delayed acceleration response and power steering and brake shut-offs, which can make the car dangerous to drive.
- Leaking fuel pump flanges: The fuel pump flange supplied to Audi was reported to develop hairline cracks, leading to small leaks, which can be a fire hazard due to the flammable liquid coming into contact with internal components.
- Automatic transmission failure: The 2009-2010 and 2012 Audi Q5 models have reported transmission failures, including issues with sudden transmission lockup, rough shifting, and complete transmission breakdown, necessitating expensive repairs or replacements.
- Sunroof leaks and failures: Sunroof leaks and operational failures, reported in the 2009-2017 models, can lead to water ingress, damaging the interior and affecting electronic components.
- Faulty steering: Dismayed owners of the 2014-2017 Audi Q5 have complained about steering issues, including a stiff steering feel and unusual noises during low-speed maneuvers or while the vehicle is stationary.
- Electrical issues: A range of electrical problems have plagued the 2009-2016 models, affecting everything from dashboard warning lights and exterior lighting to the infotainment system and electronic rearview mirror.
- Suspension woes: The 2009-2012 models have faced suspension-related complaints, including issues with the suspension arm and control arm bushings.
It is important to note that while these issues have been reported, not every Audi Q5 will experience these problems. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and consider them when deciding which model year to purchase. Additionally, having a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic can help identify any potential issues before purchasing a used Q5.
What is the most common problem of the Audi Q5?
What are common Audi Q5 problems?
- Excessive oil consumption. Turbo Q5 models, specifically the 2011 model, suffer significantly from excessive oil consumption. ...
- Defective timing chains. ...
- Start-stop system issues. ...
- Sunroof concerns. ...
- Leaky fuel pump flanges.
Is the Audi Q5 high maintenance?
In 2022 the rating was 4 out of 5 and in 2021, the rating of the Q5 was a 2 out of 5. In addition to earning less than stellar reliability ratings from groups that derive data from Audi owners, the Audi brand is notorious for being an expensive brand to repair.
Which car is better Audi Q5 or Lexus RX 350?
When drivers compare the Lexus RX 350 to the Audi Q5 or Acura MDX performance, the Lexus RX 350 beats the Audi in horsepower and both vehicles in acceleration. The Lexus RX 350 also offers a choice of FWD or AWD for drivers who prefer a choice between the best possible fuel consumption and precision handling.
Is SQ5 faster than Q5?
Compared to the standard Q5, the SQ5 boasts a 0 to 60 time that's over a full 2 seconds quicker. Similarly, the SQ5 is capable of a higher top speed than the standard Q5.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi Sq5 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi Sq5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi Sq5 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi Sq5 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi Sq5 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi Sq5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi Sq5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi Sq5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sq5 model years
A total of 4 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sq5 model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 70 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi Sq5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi Sq5 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi Sq5 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
- VIN: WA1VGAFP1EA
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Vehicle has suffered extensive and catastrophic corrosion to the rear sub-frame resulting in structural danger to operate vehicle. Extensive rust appears to be the result of substandard materials and the manufacturer supplied installation of plastic guard which traps and retains moisture and debris next to the subframe. Damage was detected before vehicle incident could occur on road.
Audi Sq5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: WA1B4AFY2K2
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Panoramic roof glass exploded outwards while driving on the highway. No sign of rock damage or debris hitting. The glass is deformed outwards. The glass was sent towards the interior of the car. The sunroof shade was closed and many pieces of glass were caught by this otherwise the driver would have been hit by glass shards.
Audi Sq5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: WA1C4AFY4J2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: During a rainstorm, water drained from roof drains that are apparently supposed to be cleaned & maintenance done by dealership on a regular basis but were clogged due to them not being any maintenance done. Water shorted out the entire control module for the entire vehicle computer after leaking into the rear inside behind hatch where battery and electrical components are located rendering the vehicle dead and undriveable on the side of the road. By the vehicles complete electrical system being rendered dead, this puts those in risk of accidents and is not covered as a warranty item for an issue that is well known according to dealership on their entire line of SUV products for the last decade. They wanted more than the SUV was worth to replace the computer control module, body wiring harness, and drain tubes that were clogged, but stated it happens all the time and is well documented by all Audi dealerships.
Audi Sq5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-12
- VIN: WA1C4BFY0J2
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil leaking from the engine. Mechanic determined that it was the Filter Housing. They replaced the filter housing and since then, the problem is all good. I spent over $5000 to identify this problem and get it repaired.
Audi Sq5 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-27
- VIN: WA1CGAFP6EA
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I have a 2014 Audi sq5. Had vehicle in for service today and the tech discovered a huge rust hole in the rear subframe on both the left and right sides under the plastic shielding. This is a huge safety issue and this is not normal on a 10 year old vehicle to have this massive rust problem. After doing some research this seems to be a very common issue on this chassis, someone is going to die if one of these completely rusts through and breaks while driving. My previous car (13 Mercedes c300) had a recall for a similar issue with rear subframe rot. Something needs to be done with this Audi sq5. This is not safe and a recall should be made for these low quality rear subframes
Audi Sq5 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: WA1CGAFP0FA
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Audi SQ5. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, there was an abnormal scraping and dragging sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and observed that the plastic cover for the rear frame was loosened and was dragging on the roadway. The contact was able to remove the remaining piece of the plastic cover by hand. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the rear subframe was severely corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Audi Sq5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-15
- VIN: WA1A4AFY6J2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: After a hard rainstorm the Comfort System Control Module (CCM) errored apparently from getting wet from a clogged sun roof drainage line, causing water to enter the rear left side compartment in which the CCM is housed (behind the insulation). The entire area is still damp 3 days later, and water is also located in the tire well and the rear right side compartment. The CCM error in turn caused a cascade of other errors, including causing the rear lights to stop working, an obvious safety hazard. As is evident from online discussion boards this is a frequent issue with this model and a clear design flaw. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Audi Sq5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-28
- VIN: WA1B4AFYXK2
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: No warning lights or fault codes. Took it to Audi of Dallas and without a code they said they couldn’t troubleshoot it. The car makes a whining noise only while under acceleration and is prominate between 20-50 mph. Also the fuel gauge (electric) does not show the correct amount of fuel. I have already ran out of fuel and it still showed 200+ miles left and the gauge was still around 1/2. Also while at the dealer they replaced my motor mounts through my extended warranty and said i needed to replace the rear shocks but it wasn’t covered (3rd party extended warranty) that i purchased from the dealer i bought the car from in Austin.
Audi Sq5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-29
- VIN: WA1C4AFY1K2
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The Adaptive Cruise Control erroneously detects things such as shadows when going under bridges as stationary objects positioned in front of the vehicle, and aggressively applies the brake, causing an unsafe situation. If this occurs on wintry roads or icy conditions, this could create a safety hazard, especially at highway speeds. There is also no known way to disable the adaptive cruise control during periods where this could be a likely scenario, such as certain times of the day when the sun can cast shadows into the lane of traffic.
Audi Sq5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-14
- VIN: WA1C4AFYXJ2
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Engine Thermostat broke
Audi Sq5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-23
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WA1B4AFY2K2
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Collision on highway and airbags did not deploy. White powder was present on dashboard after accident but not deployment of any airbags. Was hit on driver side and pushed off the highway were I struck a metal pole knocked that down and crashed into woods and trees area.
Audi Sq5 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-21
- VIN: WA1B4AFY9L2
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I recently purchased this vehicle 8/5/23 and since then the pre sense function has activated it’s jarring emergency breaking three times. Once it happened to me backing out of my driveway without any obstruction, another with my husband backing out of a parking spot, and then most recently today with me as a driver going about 35 mph where it “sensed” a vehicle next to me about to change into my lane but changed their mind. Even if the vehicle next to me changed lanes to go in front of me, there was plenty of space and having the emergency pre sense braking created a more unsafe situation with the vehicle behind me potentially rear ending me. I contacted the local Audi dealer and they said there is no way to have this feature turn off as a default. Instead, I have to manually turn it off every time I turn on the ignition. I love the car but the pre sense feature has placed me in more unsafe situations than without it. I wish the manufacturer would allow having this system turn off as a default.
Audi Sq5 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-06
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-14
- VIN: WA1C4AFYXK2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: 2019 Audi SQ5 Tail Lights, Brake Lights and rear blinker failure. All lights inoperable with errors and warnings appearing on the dashboard display. Failed while driving home from a weekend trip in the evening approximately 1 hour from home. Had a friend follow behind me to reduce risk of any issues with other drivers colliding with my vehicle. The dealership inspected the vehicle and found numerous faults stored in comfort module for short circuits to B+ in lighting for rear of vehicle. Dealer performed software update to comfort module per technical service bulletin 2055123/4. As the owner of an expensive vehicle with Platinum extended warranty coverage, the dealership and warranty company (VWFS Protection Services, Inc.) claim software is not covered by my warranty. The dealership stated: "At this time the module has not failed, so there is no replacement needed. Audi has a technical service bulletin for optimized software to address this concern. That is where things would need to start with having the most current version. If there was a continued issue after that update, then it's possible there's a replacement of parts that would be needed." This is a serious safety concern. The vehicle software caused the failure. Audi has created a problem that caused the lights to become non-operational. This presents a clear and apparent risk to driver safety. This could easily be deemed grounds for a recall for leaving the vehicle in a dangerous condition. The vehicle tail lights, brake lights and rear blinkers do not work without the software update. The same statement can be made for the control module. They now fail to operate with this vehicle. If Audi chooses to fix the vehicle via a software fix instead of replacing them with parts that do work mechanically and/or electrically with this vehicle, that was the choice Audi and their dealership made, thus eliminating my warranty coverage for the fix, forcing me to pay full cost for their software errors/update.
Audi Sq5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-10
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-10
- VIN: WA1C4AFYXJ2
- Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Audi SQ 5. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH in rainy weather, several unknown warning lights started blinking and the rear windshield wiper independently activated, and contact was unable to turn off the rear windshield wiper. The contact pulled over on the side on the road and turned off the vehicle. Once the contact restarted the vehicle, the vehicle operated normally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that there was a water leaking from the sunroof causing corrosion to the air bags connector, module, and the headliner had mold and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 73,949.
Audi Sq5 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-07
- VIN: WA1C4AFYXJ2
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I’m hearing squeaking noise from the steering column when steering left or right slowly of my Audi SQ5 2018 model. I noticed the noise can be heard loud after driving the vehicle for 30 min on the road or longer time driven. The squeaking noise from steering wheel column is often heard when taking the vehicle out from parking lot or moving the vehicle from stationary while turning the steering wheel. It’s kind of creaking noise rubbing off against something and heard from inside the cabin.
Latest 5 recalls Audi Sq5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 23 recalls for different components of the Audi Sq5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi Sq5 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
- Model: Audi Sq5 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-08-03
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling one 2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback vehicle. The connections that join the metal sheets to form the rear lid may have been improperly connected.
- Consequence: An improperly connected rear lid may decrease the structural protection of the vehicle during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: A dealer will replace the rear lid, free of charge. The owner notification letter is expected to be mailed September 30, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 55M6.
- Model: Audi Sq5 2020
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
- Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
- Model: Audi Sq5 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-26
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
- Consequence: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.
- Model: Audi Sq5 2020
- Report Received Date: 2021-12-08
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 vehicles. A liquid spill in the rear seat, or water ingress from an insufficient body seam underneath the vehicle may allow liquid to penetrate the gateway control module, causing it to shutdown.
- Consequence: A gateway control module shutdown will suddenly reduce engine power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will install a protective cover on the gateway control module and seal an underbody seam as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90S9.
Latest negative Audi Sq5 car reviews
Latest positive Audi Sq5 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2022
This elegant vehicle provides a comfortable and smooth ride, with a quiet cabin interior and an outstanding cooling system - perfect for those living in Arizona. The Bang & Olufsen sound system is by far one of the best, making driving around in this elegant vehicle an enjoyable experience. As retirees (ages 57 and 60), safety and comfort are our top priorities, and this vehicle checks off everything we expect from a quality vehicle. We are proud to be loyal Audi customers, having purchased our third Audi in five years. The outstanding customer service from Audi (both sales and service) is a testament to their commitment to excellence.
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Vehicle year: 2022
This is the best vehicle I’ve ever had the pleasure of owning in my 60 years of driving. Previous car was an 2014 Audi Q5. Aside from a suspension issue, which was promptly repaired, this 2020 SUV has performed flawlessly. It is very comfortable on long trips and gets a solid 26 mpg in steady highway driving (as calculated by hand and also by the onboard computer, which is amazingly accurate). Would buy Audi again, without hesitation.
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Vehicle year: 2016
This Audi SQ5 is truly an amazing car! It may have less acceleration than my previous BMW 335i sport line, but everything else is extremely comparable. The handling is tight on curvy NC mountain roads, and it crushes light to light performance on the straight roads of Florida. It also has a limo-like feel for date nights with my wife, and of course, the Quattro safety is unbeatable. I cannot say enough great things about it. Even my wife, who is a hard sell on my sports car addiction, loves it and uses it as her daily driver, passing by our corvettes, BMW M4, and even a Hummer that she calls 'too slow' (and it is). We have had several Audis in the past, including an A6 4.2 and an S4 Cabrio, but this is by far our best Audi yet!
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Vehicle year: 2020
I'm thrilled with my decision to go for the 2018 Audi SQ5 prestige. I did my research and compared it to other models like the new F-Pace S, XC60 T8, 43 AMG, and upcoming redesigned X3 M40i. The Audi SQ5's standard adaptive dampers provide the perfect balance of comfort and sportiness. In comparison, the Volvo is too soft and floaty for my taste, while the others are too harsh for daily driving even with adaptive dampers. When I drove the Lexus RX and the SQ5 back-to-back on my local roads, I found the SQ5 to be quieter and better at soaking up bumps while also being faster. The virtual cockpit and modern entertainment system are truly the best and most updated in their class, surpassing other competitors. The XC60 T8 comes close, but its infotainment system is rather laggy and its ergonomics are not well thought-out, as everything, including the heater, is adjusted with the main screen. If that main screen doesn't boot up quickly or correctly, you're basically left in the dark and unable to adjust anything. According to a recent reliability survey from Consumer Reports, Audis are very reliable, particularly compared to other luxury brands. Volvo and Jaguar are the bottom brands in this respect. All in all, it's the best car I've owned, perfect for running errands with the family or embracing windy and twisty roads with speed.
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Vehicle year: 2022
I've owned a lot of cars since the late 70s, mostly BMW and Porsche. I've had the pleasure of owning 5 M3s, 2 M5s, 4 911s, and more recently X5s, a Cayenne, and even an X3M. Then I bought a 2012 Audi A8L and fell in love with the brand. I bought my wife an Audi allroad and wanted something a little sportier. I went to the dealer intending to look at the S4/S6/7 line and was considering the S5 Sportback. All of the aforementioned is only for context. I'm an older guy who appreciates performance, and yet I have a perspective of how much performance a person can actually use on the street. I also enjoy a modicum of practicality, and so many new cars today offer both that could only be dreamed of 10 or 15 years ago. The SQ5 is without a doubt the best balance of both comfort and performance I have encountered to date in an easy-to-live-with package. It's simply amazing the choices we consumers enjoy today. I considered a Macan, but the usual Porsche buying experience is a turnoff. Additionally, my local Audi dealer was terrific to deal with, and frankly, the SQ5 technology embarrasses the Macan. The driving dynamics of the 2018 SQ5 feel far superior to the older platform that underpins the Macan. You can't go wrong with the SQ5, and be sure to get the virtual cockpit option.
Are you having problems with your Audi Sq5?
Van Beer 2025-05-18
Vehicle year: 2021
I'm coming to the end of my 3-year lease of a loaded SQ5. It's been a blast to drive and I love the fact that it's not a common sight on the road. However, I have found that the electronics can be a bit quirky and not very intuitive from the driver's seat. Unfortunately, the CarPlay often fails to connect and the functions are quite limited. Additionally, the navigation system is difficult to use and there is no touchscreen. Another issue I've encountered is that the engine turns off before the car has fully stopped, causing a jerky stop. Overall, my experience with Audi garage servicing quality has been disappointing, which has made me hesitant to acquire a new Audi in 2021.
Manley Ferry 2025-05-16
Vehicle year: 2018
I'm coming to the end of my 3-year lease of a loaded SQ5. It's been a blast to drive and I love the fact that it's not a common sight on the road. However, I have found that the electronics can be a bit quirky and not very intuitive from the driver's seat. Unfortunately, the CarPlay often fails to connect and the functions are quite limited. Additionally, the navigation system is difficult to use and there is no touchscreen. Another issue I've encountered is that the engine turns off before the car has fully stopped, causing a jerky stop. Overall, my experience with Audi garage servicing quality has been disappointing, which has made me hesitant to acquire a new Audi in 2021.
Garrick Crooks 2025-04-26
Vehicle year: 2022
When I first got my vehicle, I experienced some issues with the navigation system turning off while I was driving. It was a bit frustrating as I had to stop the vehicle and restart it to get it to turn back on. However, after a few automatic software updates, the issue went away. In May 2019, the thermostat failed without any check engine light and the vehicle fan ran high non-stop. It took a few days to repair the work and the dealership initially tried to charge me for the removal of the bumper to gain access to the thermostat. I expressed my concerns and they were kind enough to waive the charges. In July 2019, the A/C stopped pushing cool air and the dealership found that the a/c liquid levels were not where they should have been. They filled it up and I have not had any problems since.
Kiel Emard 2025-04-21
Vehicle year: 2018
I wanted to share an update on our experience with the purchase of a brand new 2018 SQ5. Unfortunately, we experienced total electronic system failures three times in a span of three drives, which was both unsafe and disappointing. Initially, the response from the service manager was lackluster, but I presented the dealership with a detailed and respectful written response. After a few days, Audi corporate contacted the dealer and decided to take the car back and replace it with a new SQ5. I was pleasantly surprised by Audi's willingness to take responsibility and avoid an ongoing cycle of repairs or lemon law action. As a first-time Audi owner/BMW convert, this experience reset my expectations. I have had little time to enjoy the car due to this event, but I will update my review of the new car once it has been driven sufficiently. I must say that we were treated very well at the dealer once this issue was addressed. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Jerrold Purdy 2025-04-11
Vehicle year: 2023
I'm coming to the end of my 3-year lease of a loaded SQ5. It's been a blast to drive and I love the fact that it's not a common sight on the road. However, I have found that the electronics can be a bit quirky and not very intuitive from the driver's seat. Unfortunately, the CarPlay often fails to connect and the functions are quite limited. Additionally, the navigation system is difficult to use and there is no touchscreen. Another issue I've encountered is that the engine turns off before the car has fully stopped, causing a jerky stop. Overall, my experience with Audi garage servicing quality has been disappointing, which has made me hesitant to acquire a new Audi in 2021.