“NULL of its other competitors sound as awesome as this vehicle does on acceleration - including the Macan.”
2017 Audi SQ5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2017 Audi SQ5 is mostly a carryover, with standard adaptive cruise control on the Prestige trim as its main change. It is also the final model year of the first-generation U.S. SQ5 before the 2018 redesign.
About the 2017 Audi SQ5
1st generation U.S. SQ5 (8R, 2014-2017), final model year before the all-new 2018 redesign.
Audi positioned the SQ5 as the performance version of the Q5 for buyers who wanted sports-sedan pace without giving up SUV usefulness. Its core appeal is a strong supercharged V6, standard all-wheel drive, sharp handling for its class, and a sporty cabin wrapped in a compact luxury SUV shape. Compared with rivals, the SQ5 leaned more toward quick road manners and upscale design than rugged utility, while still offering everyday cargo space and rear-seat practicality.
The Premium Plus is the more performance-focused version, pairing a 354-hp supercharged V6 and AWD with a sport suspension, large ventilated brakes, heated sport seats, and SQ5-specific body trim. The Prestige keeps the same performance hardware but adds navigation, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitoring, parking assistance, and adaptive cruise control.
What changed, by category
Safety
Adaptive cruise control changes from optional to standard on the Prestige trim. There is no lineup-wide safety update.
2017 Audi SQ5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Supercharged, 3.0L | V6, Supercharged, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 354 hp | 354 hp |
| Torque | 346 lb-ft | 346 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 4400 lb | 4400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 57.3 cu-ft | 57.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37.4 in | 37.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Adaptive Headlights | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2017 Audi SQ5?
The main change for the 2017 Audi SQ5 is that adaptive cruise control becomes standard on the Prestige trim. Otherwise, the model largely carries over from 2016.
Is the 2017 Audi SQ5 a redesigned model?
No, the 2017 Audi SQ5 is not redesigned. It is the final year of the first-generation U.S. model, with the full redesign arriving for 2018.
Does every 2017 Audi SQ5 have the same engine and AWD system?
Yes, every 2017 Audi SQ5 has a 354-hp supercharged 3.0-liter V6, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD.
How do the 2017 SQ5 Premium Plus and Prestige trims differ?
The Prestige adds more driver-assistance and cabin technology to the Premium Plus performance package. Its equipment includes navigation, Bang & Olufsen audio, adaptive headlights, blind-spot monitoring, parking assistance, and standard adaptive cruise control.
Is the 2017 Audi SQ5 worth considering over the 2016 model?
The 2017 SQ5 is mainly worth considering over the 2016 model if standard adaptive cruise control on the Prestige trim matters to you. The engine, AWD system, sport suspension, styling, and general cabin layout otherwise carry over.
2017 Audi SQ5 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 Audi SQ5.
4.4
2017 Audi SQ5
(35 reviews)
“It is an awesome car. Almost everything can be controlled and adjusted for your preference. The car heats up quickly and has a lot of power making it FUN to drive.”
“Seriously consider buying one. The engineering is fantastic, well planned and innovative. The styling is such that it will stay in style for years to come. Performance is unbelievable.”