The 2021 Audi SQ5 Sportback Is An Enticing, Little Compromise Performance SUV
Вставка
- Опубліковано 19 лип 2021
- The #AudiSQ5 has always been a very attractive performance SUV that blends an appropriate amount of sport and luxury in the segment. When the #SQ5 was redesigned a couple years ago, it started to fall behind other rivals so for 2021, Audi is introducing the #SQ5Sportback with a more sleeker designed rear and not as much compromise to the rear seat and cargo area as one might think. It still sports the same 3.0L turbocharged V6 pushing nearly 350 HP to all-four wheels through an 8-speed AT. #Audi has also freshened up the look inside and out and the result is an even more enticing SUV that offers more practicality over an #S5Sportback.
We're also on:
Instagram: / redline_reviews
Facebook: / liketheredline
Twitter: / tweettheredline - Авто та транспорт
The coupified SUV isn't going anywhere soon, luckily Audi seems to be doing it right with very little compromises to the trunk and back-seat space. Not to mention, its slightly more attractive looking (minus the fake exhaust) versus the regular SQ5. If you're considering an S5 Sportback but want more trunk and back seat room, this is actually the better option and its not really any slower or less fun-to-drive.
my damn $30K fusion sport has 100% real quad exhaust lol omg @ audi being lazy
I’m honestly surprised you would recommend the SQ5 Sportback over the S5 Sportback. It’s only got 4 additional cubic feet of cargo space, it’s got a higher center of gravity, it’s 400 pounds heavier, it’s not as quick, it’s got fake exhaust tips, and it’s not nearly as sexy as an S5 Sportback. I know you’ve driven the S4 and called it a near perfect sport sedan. The S5 Sportback is the same car but with better styling and more cargo space. Versus the SQ5, the S5 is an easy decision for me.
Why can they j sell exhaust tip cover... fake exhaust look super cheap!
I've had my '21 Daytona Gray Pearl SQ5 SB Prestige for about two weeks - dealer ordered back in Feb '21. It replaces a Brilliant Black '15 Allroad Premium Plus. Driving in Dynamic, the transmission shifts quickly at part-throttle which allows you to walk-away from traffic without looking racy. Exhaust has a nice burble with the valves open. Overall, it is a very comfortable highway cruiser with the Dynamic Steering and S-Suspension (Air) options. I added the factory hitch for utility, since the SB has no luggage rails, and will be used either with a bike rack or platform carrier for over-sized cargo. I already disabled the Auto S/S with a $37 ebay hack - works transparently. No buyer's remorse whatsoever.
BTW, it does have Launch Control - see page 100 in the owner's manual.
The exhaust look alone made me choose the S5 Sportback.
Fake exhaust is the dumbest decision ever!!! Audi in general lost its edge lately!
I miss era of my 2013 S4…
I bought the Macan S over the SQ5 and part of that reason was because I just couldn;t get over the exhaust. Any company that makes a "sport' version with a fake exhaust needs to wake up.
I’ve heard Audi’s aren’t as fun to drive (despite being capable) as its competition. the fake exhaust tips make sense that they’re not really trying..
Yeah, to me when they stopped with Dual clutch transmission and supercharger I lost interest, just not as fun… but oh well it’s becoming great rental car 😂
The big fades nowadays are fake exhaust and the removal of fog lights. Most manufacturers are guilty of this.
The Best review as always.
Audi lost me with the fake exhaust.. I just cant accept that. I love the S4 and SQ5, and have owned several of each, but I will not be buying a new Audi until they unf**k this issue.
Absolutely ☝️👊
I am adding that to my vocabulary when something is terrible. unf××ck.
Real exhaust is an option on the SQ5. It should be standard, Audi needs to refine its pricing and make the SQ5 a better deal. That said, they sell out of them.
Another great review! Would you ever consider reviewing the S6?
Love your videos
yes, ventilated seats are nearly impossible to find in my general area (Philly). not sure if that applies elsewhere. there are about 7 Audi dealers within driving range and i never see models with the warm weather pkg.
I’d rather get the normal sq5 instead
I agree, I have no idea why these are so popular because you are honestly making compromise after compromise buying one these. They don't really excel in any category that they compete in.
I'd rather buy a fully loaded top trim 2021 Chevrolet Spark for $15K (after discounts) and invest the remaining $60K in the stock market.
@@braetonwilson4296 I get what you’re saying but the people buying this probably don’t have money problems
@@dylanw890 You have a valid point but this youtube channel isn't just for rich people. In fact I would wager that the majority of the people who view this video are not in a position where they can comfortably afford this Audi Sportback.
@@braetonwilson4296 He reviews vehicles for all types of economic groups. Not sure what your point even is.
I prefer the look of sport backs/ coupe designs on suvs. It just looks cooler and sportier. Plus most people rarely use all the space in the back
I agree, unless you pile your groceries to the roof or are carrying printers and dressers in the trunk on a daily basis, then get a Q5 or Q7, you’ll need the height. I like all Audi’s!
The fake plugged in quad exhaust tips, is the most embarrassing thing I've ever seen in the auto industry!!🤦🏾♂️
I know man! Even the 2021 Toyota Corolla SE sedan has real sporty exhaust tips and that's 1/3rd the price of this overpriced tacky Audi!
@@braetonwilson4296 regardless of exhaust pipe, the Corolla couldn’t dream of being on par with any Audi
@@isimonsez Audi is overpriced unreliable German crap which means it breaks down every month. Corolla will never break down. I choose Corolla.
You don’t wana race that shit tho
@@SuperFreshprince10my Kia is faster. And with its hatch about as much storage space.
One of the few suvs I actually like
Nice car. I knew it was coming but I got the Genesis GV70 instead... It's brilliant.
Hello, Genesis, you there?
GOTTA HAVE SUV!
Hi Sofyan. Can you make a review of 2021 Camaro zl1 please please thanks you are the best
Solid sounding thunk
I was torn between ordering an SQ5 and a Mach-E. Both were fun to drive but the instant torque of the Mach-E was addicting.
i coldnt get past the 113 & 130mph top speed
Great video. Thoughts on SQ5 vs Genesis GV70 Sport Prestige? Thank you.
GV70 if you can keep it out of the shop.
I’ve been thinking very hard about ordering the 2022 SQ5
What did you decide?🧐
Got ‘21 ❤ it
Do review of genesis GV70 2021
Great review. I hate the fake exhaust outlets and believe the SQ5 does NOT have the same engine as the Macan. The Porsche uses the 2.9 Liter as I recall.
Got real ones, option
One little thing, the current gen Macan uses MLB platform, which is quite dated. This q5 and the next gen Macan are using MLB evo platform.
It’s quite handsome. 😍
want to see the ambient light during night drive.
Is it me or is Audi not giving the flat bottom steering wheels to all their S models anymore. I believe it was pretty much standard on all their S models, now you have to get specific packages (all the highly spec'd S models) to have the flat bottom wheels.
Dear Audi please bring the RSQ3/RSQ5 to the United States 🇺🇸. 🙏 🤲
there is no RSQ5 in Europe either
amen to bringing the RSQ3 over here. i would buy tomorrow.
quit kissing Audi's ass(VW), many other choices out there.
Awesome video...greeting from Russia
This screen looks like a after thought
Very Nice.
Back seats don't fold completely flat actually. I test drove this very recently. I was kind of disappointed with the interior and the somewhat unrefined driving dynamics at low speed. I also felt quite a bit of turbo lag.
I have no complaints with my V6 q5. Handles like a sport sedan and 0 to 60 is the same as my model S 75.
@hon solo I disagree because I drove the X3 X4 M40i, the regular SQ5, and the 2021 Chevrolet Spark 2LT back to back and the Spark felt like the best value for money. Especially since we have to follow speed limits and can't go fast anyway. More fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.
@@Eric_In_SF S 75 is 4.4 seconds to 60
The, I'm assuming you meant SQ5 as opposed to 'V6 q5'... unless you're referring to the 09-12' Q5 which is WAY slower, is 4.7 seconds to 60.
@@braetonwilson4296 not where I live. People regularly drive 85+ mph in a 70 and no one gets pulled over.
@@tim3172 he’s probably talking about 3.0T with a stage 1 tune which brings it to 433 hp+ and about 400 tq
The VW group knows exactly how to make a good looking coupified SUV... The Q8, THIS Q5 Sport back, Q3 Sport back, The Cayenne Coupe, the Urus, and so on...
Mercedes and especially BMW, if you are here, take notes from your rival here
I love the look of Audi but why do all the trouble of looking like quad exhaust to then just plug it. What’s the point of this?
Coupified SUVs. For those who want a practical car minus a lot of practicality.
They are expensive hatchbacks for folks too image conscious to buy a hatchback. LOL!
A fool and his money are easily parted. This Audi Sportback is for such fools.
I agree, these cars don't make any sense to me. Why would you want less boot space?
If someone can afford it and likes the shape who cares lmao
@@braetonwilson4296 that sounds like jealousy
There's a great video on YT of an SQ5 with a part of the aircon system that's broken...half the SUV needs to be taken apart to fix it. Great design.
like all the Germans, just lease it.
What kind of black optics package doesnt black out the audio chrome rings?
It does currently.
No one ever mentions having the Prestige Plus with the massage seats :(
And I thought the GLC coupe looked weird. This took the cake…
Sofyan your so good
They need to bring the better design treatment to the normal non sportback models. The coupified version has more style! Shouldn’t have to pay more to have the rear chopped off.
Doesn’t look bad but I would rather get a normal SQ5 this rear just looks odd they should’ve used the Q8 Q3sportback roofline
Air suspension with sport differential and graiala îndodie
It is the best looking coupified SUV I think but it’s still hard for me to understand who buys these. Oops, my neighbours have one. Takea reasonably good Sporty “Utilish” Vehicle and give it a sloped roof, remove the roof rails, reduce the storage, make it difficult to add a hitch. All of a sudden Ford’s decision to stop selling cars in NA makes a lot of sense. What people really want is cars that are shaped differently. To be fair, my newest “SUV”is a Golf R hahaha :)
We have a large armada to haul things and the family. I love sedans but I have a bad back. Vehicles like these look closest to the sedan yet allow me to get in and out easily. Not everyone needs the cargo room of an SUV.
Is it harmful if one puts regular fuel?? Great review btw
Never settle for water in your tanks. Especially in turbo & supercharged vehicles.
Put no less then 91 AKI or 95 RON octane , ideally 93 AKI or 98 RON
I choose non-sportback Audi SQ5 over this.
Compare to GLC coupé and x4 this looks mile better.
I prefer GLC
So either next year (hopefully) I want the GV70 or Acura RDX. Because that 70k is not hitting 🥴.
Acura needs to allow people to have the A Spec package with the Advanced package features. It sucks you can't have both. Also they need a touch screen. If they fixed both of those I'd buy it today.
the RDX doesn’t offer a 6 cylinder engine option though
@@kristians2704 I didn't want one anyway 😂, I actually wish it was a hybrid but I don't want battery replacements down the road.
@@arnoagur7777 they have that, it’s called the PMC edition.
I wish Acura would make a Type S variant for the RDX to compete with this.
I saw no point to the sportback; meaning paying $3k for less cargo space. I got an end of year new 2023 loaded up SQ5 Prestige 2 mos ago and got about $9k off MSRP. I actually think it was an overcompensating move for the ridiculous slow (and noisy and cramped) NX350 I had gotten the year before. This car is ridiculously fast and I see the only time I can get away with letting this car really rip is on interstate entrance ramps. In fact, I have not even gone through all the gears before I am on top of traffic (like I have hit 80 mph before I can enter the lanes). It does have real exhaust tips and about $4k worth of stuff I did not want (not much to choose in November of a model year). I did not care about black optics, S beam and a few other items. I do appreciate the sport differential and air suspension. Fun car. I don’t think the SQ5 has a hybrid option of any sort.
The 9K removed was what is should have cost in the first place. You're right, how could less car be more expensive.
Sinquential??
This mid cycle refresh was a very lazy one. The Q7 got just a mid cycle refresh for 2020 but thr interior of the 2020 Q7 is radically different than its 2019 counterpart. I cannot say the same thing about 2021 vs 2020 Q5/A5/A4. Hopefully when the Q3 gets refreshed, that car would have the exact same interior as the 2022 A3, because it currently does not.
Q5, A5, A4 almost in their new generation fall 2022 to summer 2023 time frame. The interior going be different than current Audi set up they ride on newer platform. The design might be similar to E-tron GT, A6- Etron concept exterior wise.
That's strange, SQ5 sportback don't sells in China, sometimes if SQ5 sportback is TDI version, behind the right fake exhaust will be the urea tank.
I think their are better choices out their
Is this the prestige version?
Yes it is
I worked at AUDI for 15 years and the best car IMHO is the Manual S5 V8, but for the life of me i can't understand those Fake Pipes! Heads should Roll for that.
ITS SOOOOO CHEAP.
What's the purpose of making a fake exhaust? Cost saving measure?
No cooled seats due to no perforations in the quilted Napa leather.
just buy the aftermarket rsq8 diffuser exhaust tips and done!!!
The drive train in this Audi should be what is in the Volkswagen Tiguan R.
All VW Group on similar platforms share some parts, but drive train isn't one of them. The Audi has a 6-cycliner vs VWs 4 banger. In addition, Audi uses an 8 speed torque converter transmission. The VW uses a 7-speed dual-clutch. That's the current configuration anyway.
I think Audi needs to work on their interior a little more. Doesn't look as Luxurious as before!!
So glad I convinced my dad to go volvo not Audi this bs gotta stop man, why this car exists and why it has fake ass exhaust tips on a sports model..... like jeez Audi get it together, you guys had such nice cars 10 years ago. It just feels like to get a good audi you have to get the highest trim with the most options. and even then you get cars like this with a fake exhaust. This ones a hard no from me a civic type r will shit on this and have way more space out back.
Oh my god thank god >_<
I just got a mk5 rabbit but I was worried where I would go next :/
I can’t decide between Tiguan or R.. but this???? This????? Ifajifajicajoskfhaofjaofjaofjakd ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
This looks ancient, esp the interior.
The interior looked dated on arrival
They have gotten very pricey I remember how cheap the 5000 series was
I'm glad all of Audis are getting a more aggressive and distinctive look but... now that they all look like the new A7/RS7... Kinda detracting from the special'ness of that car... ):
I want an Audi so badly but won’t buy one if I can’t get a factory remote start.
Most German cars don’t have remote start..
For that much $, I’d rather have cooled seats than a cooled cup holder. Poor substitute in my opinion.
why on earth would they go thru all that trouble to make fake exhaust when the pipes end right underneath
This vehicle is very disappointing. The word FAKE should not come out of anyones mouth when the price tag is above 50K or more. This vehicle makes the Genesis GV70 look a 80K vehicle. What is happening to Audi? Did they hire EX Infiniti designers?
looks like a bigger version of the first gen q3
The Like the supercharged SQ5 much better than the refreshed models. The quad tips are not convincing any of us. The steering wheel, IMO should be flat bottom on S | RS models.
I just.. I just don't understand the fake exhaust tips. Is there a functional purpose, or do they just hate selling cars?
Feel like their interior needs some work.. Hyundai's and Kia's are looking better inside 🤣
Flavored Monkey you see the differences. Kia and Hyundai are making $35,000 vehicles with more quality than this $70,000 vehicle.
It definitely does look dated. Like something out of 2010.
@@dextersmithbsee .... I'm just starting to look at Kia For the First Time Ever. I agree with you.
The main question with a sportback, is rear seat head-room, which you did not address. A condition from Audi?
Lost me at 70k...
That's a really angular interior if I have ever seen one. Not really impressed by this interior at all, the dash material looks like something straight out of a new Volkswagen. I guess that is the modern progression. Personally, I have always despised carbon fibre, I really think it looks tacky. They have all somehow gone the "red and black" stitching combination with cheap looking silver trim or carbon fibre. Bring back the wood-trims for sporty cars, especially one hailing from a luxury segment.
like all the Germans, just lease it. yeah the carbon is a cliche now.
You don’t have to get the carbon trim. It comes standard with Aluminum trim.
@@Troy-fv9uq Yeah, which is just as bland, not as tacky as the carbon fibre, but nothing special. In fact, that Aluminium trim makes it look like the inside of an older Volkswagen.
Apr says this engine is more like
400hp
410 tq
Sport back just makes it look smaller like a 3
For that price I'd expect less plastic and fakeness.
Does anyone know if these are reliable?
Nobody buys German cars for their reliability. These are for those that prioritize performance and handling plus a solid build quality. If you're looking for reliability, shop Japanese. Lexus can match the luxury, but there are no sporty SUV equivalents from Japan at this time. Part of what makes them more reliable to begin with.
Hi. Thanks for letting me know. I ended up buying one but extended the warranty. Great vehicle 🚗 so far.
It’s so weird putting a butt plug in the exhaust of an expensive vehicle
There's literally no reason to get his over the SQ5 non sportback version. The interior and cargo isn't even that large for an "SUV", too many sacrifices for aesthetics.
The difference is square box style or the sporty style. And i bet the sporty style will out sell the box.
The regular SQ5 has fake exhaust as well. You have to pay to get the sport exhaust
Not sure about this one. The front looks like any Audi which I guess makes sense? But fake exhaust? Come on. Absolutely horrendous.
Nice BUT Id rather a GENESIS GV70 or the BMW X4
gv70 has unproven reliability and resale value
The GV
That exhaust drone at cruising speed would get tiresome real quick for me. I must be getting old.
I've looked at so many cars in this class and someone told me to check out Audi. I have to say, compared to others in it's class..it's lacking. With that being said, watch, I'll end up buying one! LOL!
What is it lacking? Its an incredible piece of machinery. Its far quieter than the BMW M40i, far more comfortable front and back. Better looking IMO too.
If you think Audi is lacking then you don't know how it works. You're paying for performance, handling and build quality. There's more to cars than what you can see. With Audi, you're paying for what you can't see. Its independent suspension and material. Mostly aluminum.
Love your reviews but i think you should do your 0 to 60 test in a road without trees on both sides
you have no room for errors
Sport back is not easy on the eye.. Original shape is good enough
You're the opposite.
Just get the s5 hatchback bruh, heaps of space and better drivers car
Yea
Just avoid Audi bruh, I'd rather buy a Porsche or a Jaguar.
@@braetonwilson4296 audi is better than jag
@@yes8032 I prefer jag to audi, let's agree to disagree
@@braetonwilson4296 I respect your opinion
Why do manufactures do fake exhausts??
Biggest Audi fan here, but this thing is HIDEOUS!!!
Bet I can pop those fake exhaust plugs out & make my own tips. But for 70k, I shouldn't have to.🤦🏿♂️
I want all these car makers to explain to us why they fake the exhaust tips.
Actual buyers like the look of the tips but get sick of cleaning the soot from direct-injection process.
Ohh pretty shiny tips. Oh I have to clean them after every trip? Nah, give me fake ones.
I prefer Audi best out of the 3G's(Germans).
Their interior and exterior styling!
Just wished that some of their vehicles were rear wheel drive only!
Audi has great tech, but some of their interiors aren’t that luxurious. All the soft touch plastic isn’t enough for 70k tbh. Give us some fake stitching at least. Honestly the Germans need to stop making every single feature an option lol. Wonder how the QX55 will do against the competition.
The interior starting to getting dated but Q5 new gen start in 2 years.
By then it’ll probably be electrified ⚡️
2023 = new generation of A4, A5, Q7, Q5 they have newer interiors than Audi out now, design might be new theme first underpin to new tech before A6, A8 new gen.get advance versions
If i wanted a S4 but need thr practicality, i would go for a normal SQ5, not this with no practicality
You could also look into an S5 Sportback. Just a suggestion.
@@snakeeyes9246 naw s5 sportback sits quite tight in the rear. Cargo room is decent but definitely nowhere near an SUV practicality
@@RKO859 what if you care about practicality??? Not my main concern.
Jack Liu With 21.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seats up, the S5 Sportback is one of the most practical cars you can buy outside of a wagon. I’ve had passengers ride in my backseat for over 24 hours of driving, and they were perfectly comfortable.
@@keithschwebel4319 the backseats are tight. Yes the cargo is good because of the tailgate sportback design. But rear seating position is a bit cramp and the door opening is not that accomodating. I would probably know something about audi since i work there.
Ouch. That interior looks dated and cheap af. Look at all that hard scratchy plastic
It great, but no way its worth $74,000