CAR OF THE WEEK

Refined. Dependable. Effortless. SQ5.

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Performance & drivetrain — diesel V6 meets quattro muscle

At the heart of the SQ5 TDI is a 3.0-litre twin-turbo diesel V6 mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox and Audi’s permanent quattro all-wheel drive. This combination delivers robust performance (equivalent to a brisk 0–62 mph effort, typical for an SQ5) while retaining the towing, traction and real-world usability you expect from an SUV. Carjourno+2Dezo's Garage+2

Motoring reviewers often praise the SQ5 for finding a sweet spot between power and composure: according to one recent evaluation, even with hefty 21-inch wheels, the ride remains composed and refined — and the V6 feels far more cultured than the coarse diesel engines you often find in this class. HeyCar+1

For you as buyer, that means the car has the muscle to accelerate confidently from town streets to motorway overtakes — yet remains sufficiently refined for day-to-day driving in comfort.

Interior and comfort — premium ambience, especially with this spec

Inside, the SQ5 delivers a genuinely premium cabin experience. The standard sports-seats are power adjustable (with lumbar support), heated, and ergonomically shaped for long journeys. motorbar.co.uk+2Parkers+2

With our car’s optional Magma Red Fine Nappa Leather interior, the cabin immediately commands attention: plush, diamond-stitched leather seats and rich, bold colour give it a distinctive, high-end feel. The added Carbon Atlas inlays contrast beautifully with the red leather and underscore the sporty-luxury character of the cabin. Indeed, reviewers from respected outlets highlight the fine Nappa leather and carbon-trim inlays as among the SQ5’s most compelling interior features. Listers+2Midland Daily News+2

Moreover, thanks to the optional Comfort & Sound Package, the cabin is not just about looks — it’s about comfort. Features such as upgraded sound, advanced keyless access, and ambient lighting enhance everyday driving and long-distance trips alike. In short: this SQ5 doesn’t just look good. It feels thoroughly premium.

Technology & convenience — modern driver aids meet family-SUV practicality

The 2023 SQ5 comes equipped with an impressive suite of technology and convenience features. Car and Driver+2RAC+2

In a well-spec’d version like ours, the optional Comfort & Sound Package includes the Bang & Olufsen sound system, 360° cameras, extended ambient lighting, and hands-free tailgate operation. These make daily use — whether commuting, groceries, weekend travel or longer journeys — significantly more effortless and enjoyable. PistonHeads+2RAC+2

Thus, the SQ5 manages to combine performance and practicality — offering both the luxuries expected from a premium SUV and the conveniences needed for real-world ownership.

Ride quality & refinement — firm SUV dynamics without compromising comfort

Despite its sporty credentials, the SQ5 is not a harsh ride. Indeed, many motoring journalists note that even with large 21-inch alloy wheels, the SUV remains composed over imperfect surfaces, and that the ride quality is more “refined tourer” than “hard-edged sport SUV.” HeyCar+2evo+2

When driven in “Comfort” mode (or a middle setting via Audi drive select), the gearbox shifts smoothly and the mild-hybrid system blends in to reduce harshness — making the SQ5 a surprisingly pleasant cruiser for motorway miles or everyday use. evo+2RAC+2

This balance of sporting dynamics and SUV comfort is one of the reasons reviewers characterise the SQ5 as a “quietly competent but not jarringly extreme” performance SUV — ideal for those who want versatility rather than a track-focused ride. evo+1

Style, presence & individuality — exterior and interior that turn heads

Finally, the SQ5’s design and the bespoke touches on our example give it real presence. The 21-inch alloy wheels, strong muscular SUV proportions, and sporty all-wheel-drive stance give SQ5 a road presence that stands out among mid-size SUVs. Audi Media+2Carjourno+2

Inside, the combination of Magma Red Fine Nappa Leather and Carbon Atlas trim delivers a bold, expressive look that sets your car apart. Few cars in its segment manage to marry understated premium German SUV design with such a striking, individual character — a point often noted by reviewers when assessing the more richly optioned SQ5s. Listers+2PistonHeads+2

– For anyone who values a combination of practicality, performance and standout style, this car offers a rare blend of credentials.

Conclusion

The 2023 Audi SQ5 TDI Quattro is a vehicle that appeals on multiple levels — performance, comfort, practicality, style — and our example, with Comfort & Sound Package, Carbon Atlas trim, 21" wheels and Magma Red Fine Nappa Leather, represents one of the strongest expressions of what the model has to offer. From its muscular diesel-V6 and quattro grip, to the plush, richly trimmed cabin, to ride quality and everyday usability, this SQ5 is more than just a “fast SUV.” It is a premium all-rounder — capable of satisfying motoring enthusiasts, everyday drivers and style-conscious owners alike.

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