The 2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 represent a finely calibrated evolution of Audi’s most popular compact luxury SUVs. While the updates may appear modest at first glance, a closer look reveals a strategically enhanced design, refined powertrains, and cutting-edge technology, all contributing to a more engaging and luxurious driving experience. These updates align with Audi’s mission to elevate performance and elegance, while keeping pace with shifting consumer expectations.
Sculpted Exterior Design with Signature Audi Lighting Technology
The exterior of the 2025 Q5 and SQ5 takes a definitive step forward in styling. Moving away from the previously smooth contours, Audi introduces a more aggressively sculpted body, lending the SUVs a stronger road presence. The newly refined headlamp clusters feature a sharper, squintier design, while the taillights stretch across the rear width, providing a contemporary aesthetic and improved visibility.
LED Headlights Plus are now standard on upper trims and on the SQ5, delivering animated light sequences during vehicle startup and shutdown. The OLED taillights—available on Prestige trims—are not only brighter but customizable, offering eight distinctive lighting signatures. The third brake light on the SQ5 now features projection capability, casting illuminated “quattro” branding on the rear hatch glass for a striking and innovative effect.
Refreshed Interior: Technology, Comfort, and Practicality
Inside, the cabin feels both futuristic and functional. Audi’s Digital Stage setup brings a dual-screen layout with an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen. The slightly curved edge of the touchscreen offers better reach and usability, enhancing driver interaction without compromising posture or comfort. The infotainment system is powered by Audi’s latest OS, ensuring faster response times, intuitive navigation, and enhanced graphics.
Passenger space remains largely unchanged, though a slight decrease in headroom is noted due to the new design. However, the new Q5 benefits from a 1.4-inch longer body, contributing to increased cargo volume. Rear seats offer adjustable tilt and a 4-inch fore-aft slide, allowing for optimized configurations whether hauling passengers or cargo. Cargo capacity now stands at 27.6 cubic feet with all seats up and expands to 56.9 cubic feet when folded flat.
A noteworthy tech addition is the optional passenger display, which features a visibility filter preventing the driver from viewing media content, ensuring safer driving conditions without compromising entertainment for passengers.
Upgraded Powertrains: More Muscle, Smoother Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Q5 and SQ5 continue with their familiar engines but receive notable performance upgrades. The standard Q5 now houses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four producing 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque—marking an increase of 7 hp and 22 lb-ft over the previous version.
The performance-oriented SQ5 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, now generating 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, gains of 13 hp and 37 lb-ft respectively. Both models now pair these engines with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, replacing the former 8-speed unit, resulting in smoother and quicker gear changes and improved fuel efficiency.
Dynamic Chassis Enhancements and New Driving Modes
Handling and ride quality have seen noticeable improvement thanks to refinements in the steering rack, which is now more directly connected to the chassis. While not offering the most communicative steering feel in the segment, the updated configuration improves response and confidence in daily driving.
The air suspension, standard on the SQ5 and optional on the Q5, ensures a plush and adaptive ride, able to self-adjust based on drive mode or road conditions. New for 2025 is the Balanced mode, which slots between Comfort and Dynamic settings, delivering a harmonious mix of both for daily use. Enthusiasts can still access Individual mode to tailor specific parameters like steering weight, throttle response, and suspension damping.
For adventurous drivers, Offroad Plus mode joins the list, offering enhanced traction flexibility by reducing intervention from stability systems—ideal for unpaved trails or snow-covered roads.
Smart Safety and Assistance Features Elevate Daily Driving
Audi continues to push the envelope in driver assistance technologies. The 2025 Q5 and SQ5 come equipped with:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Keep Assist with Traffic Jam Assist
- 360-Degree Surround Camera
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Parking Sensors
- Audi Pre Sense Front and Rear
These features not only make the driving experience safer but also add a layer of convenience in both urban and highway environments.
Competitive Pricing and Availability
The 2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 have already begun arriving at dealerships across the country. Audi’s decision to sell the updated models alongside the outgoing variants may create some confusion, but it’s a strategic move to accommodate various price points and preferences.
- 2025 Audi Q5 Starting MSRP: $53,495
- 2025 Audi SQ5 Starting MSRP: $66,095
These prices reflect a modest increase over the previous models, justified by the enhanced performance, improved interior tech, and bolder styling. The Sportback variants, with their coupe-like rooflines, are also available for those seeking a more dynamic profile.
Verdict: Subtle Refinements, Significant Results
Audi’s approach with the 2025 Q5 and SQ5 is evolution over revolution—a smart strategy for two of its best-selling models. The blend of mature styling, improved performance, intuitive tech, and premium comfort ensures that these vehicles remain top contenders in the competitive compact luxury SUV market.
For buyers prioritizing refinement, innovative lighting, and driving versatility, the new Q5 and SQ5 deliver in spades. Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying winding country roads, Audi’s latest SUVs strike a compelling balance between luxury and sport.
