New vs Used Audi SQ5: What are the top 3 differences?
The Q5 moniker has been featuring on Audi models for over a decade already, however, these models are more aimed to towards the premium utilitarian market. If you are in the market for something a little faster, you might want the SQ5 variant. We find out what are the top three differences between a new and used Audi SQ5.
The Audi Q5 is the German automaker's answer to the likes of the locally-produced BMW X3 and the GLC from Mercedes-Benz. The Q5 is a compact SUV and, as one might imagine, has become very popular since its introduction in 2008. Now, as we all know, there are those of us who want utilitarian SUVs and those that want fast SUVs and Audi managed to appeal to both when they introduced the Audi SQ5 in 2013. In this article, we will compare the top three differences between a new Audi SQ5 and a used model.
Related: Which Audi SQ5 trim holds its value best?
The Audi SQ5 is the German automaker's answer to the growing demand for sportier compact SUVs, however, Audi managed to offer a potent machine that was also relatively frugal. They accomplished this by placing a powerful turbo-diesel into the SQ5. Here are the top 3 differences between a new and used Audi SQ5.
Visual appeal
The latest Audi SQ5 features the brand's iconic large grille which draws your attention. Flanked by LED headlights and a relatively sporty yet imperceptibly designed bumper the SQ5 doesn’t shout about its performance. A small SQ5 badge on the front grille gives a clue to the model's performance credentials. High gloss silver design elements adorn the outer edges of the grille and wing mirrors.
At the rear, however, the iconic four tailpipes have been replaced by design elements within the bumper which mimic that of tailpipes. The overall design of the new car is edgy with strong character lines and sharp features. The older car, however, adopted a different approach, in some cases, it was less noticeable as a sporty alternative to others in the range.
In fact, many still feel that the older model which was originally launched in 2013 is a far better-looking car than the latest model. This is due to the fact that it features softer design elements while also alluding to its sporty credentials. The older car made use of Audi's iconic four tailpipes which let others behind you know that this was no ordinary Q5.
Interior hospitality
The older SQ5 offered, for the time, a plush interior that followed the design approach of other Audi models within the stable. An infotainment screen embedded into the facia was the German automaker's first offering to its MMI infotainment system. Although advanced for 2013, the system can be considered very basic when compared to the new version in the new model.
The first SQ5 also offered bespoke Audi S instrument dials finished in grey. Other elements include a bespoke sports steering wheel and sports seats. Unfortunately, connectivity was minimal with only Bluetooth and an SD card slot available. The facia was also adorned with a host of buttons lower down the centre stack as well as around the centre console. The interior has however aged rather well over the years and it remains a visually appealing place to be in.
The new car, however, offers a futuristically simple interior layout. The design follows that of horizontal lines with a facia angled towards the driver. A tablet-like screen has been fitted atop the dashboard, lower down a digital climate control system reduces the need for buttons and in turn de-clutters the facia.
The updated MMI system also reduces the need for buttons making the newer system easier to use. As for connectivity, the new car offers smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Andriod Auto via a USB input. The driver also benefits from a customizable digital instrument cluster. Other bits worth mentioning are the addition of carbon fibre, sports seats and a sports steering wheel.
All about the power
The outgoing or used Audi SQ5 makes use of a performance-tuned 3.0-litre, bi-turbo, diesel motor. The engine developed 230 kW and 650 Nm of torque and features the quattro all-wheel-drive system. One of the high-performance advances comes in the form of the common rail system which has been designed to build pressure of up to 2 000 bar and can execute up to eight partial injections into the cylinders.
The 3.0-litre, turbocharged V6 petrol in the new Audi SQ5 TFSI combines instant and supreme power with high efficiency. Power is rated at 260 kW and 500 Nm of torque and will result in a sprint to 100 km/h to be achieved in 5.4 seconds. The Sporty SUV will also return a frugal fuel consumption return of 8.5-8.3 L / 100 km.
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