The 2018 Audi SQ5 is a performance-oriented compact luxury SUV, building on the success of the Q5 model. It offers a blend of practicality and driving thrills. The SQ5's body style is a classic SUV shape, providing ample passenger and cargo space. Key trims include Premium Plus and Prestige. The original pricing ranged from approximately $55,000 to $65,000. It stands out due to its powerful engine, sporty handling, and luxurious interior, making it popular with those seeking a fun-to-drive SUV.
The Good
The 2018 Audi SQ5 excels in performance with its potent engine and responsive handling. Comfort is another strong suit, thanks to its well-appointed interior and smooth ride. Its elegant design appeals to emotional buyers, while practical buyers appreciate its reliability, decent fuel efficiency for its class, and strong resale value. It's a compelling blend of luxury and athleticism.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2018 Audi SQ5 include its relatively firm ride, which may not appeal to all drivers. The infotainment system, while advanced, can have a steep learning curve. Some owners have reported minor electrical glitches. Additionally, repair costs can be higher compared to non-luxury brands. Be sure to check for proper maintenance records.
2018 Audi SQ5: Quick Overview
Key Specifications of the 2018 Audi SQ5:
- Engine Options: One engine option: 3.0-liter turbocharged V6.
- Horsepower: 354 hp.
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated at 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway.
- 0–60 Times: Approximately 5.1 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Up to 4,400 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Premium Plus: Includes features like a panoramic sunroof, Audi virtual cockpit, navigation system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and LED headlights. It also has heated front seats, keyless entry and ignition, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.
- Prestige: Adds adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, a head-up display, park assist, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Also includes a top-view camera system and heated rear seats. The Prestige trim offers enhanced leather upholstery and additional styling elements.
2018 Audi SQ5 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Audi |
| Model | SQ5 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | HEILBRONN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.0-L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
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All History
Events
Events
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History Check
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Listings
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Audi SQ5 Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2018 Audi SQ5 are relatively few but worth noting. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including glitches and slow response times. There have also been reports of minor electrical issues, such as problems with sensors or interior lighting. Oil leaks are another potential area of concern, although not widespread.
Regarding recalls, it's crucial to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any specific recalls affecting the 2018 SQ5 model. Common areas for recalls across various Audi models include issues with airbags, fuel systems, and electrical components.
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the complexity of the vehicle's systems. As with many modern luxury vehicles, the SQ5 has numerous electronic components that could potentially fail over time. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Be aware that turbocharger issues can arise over time, especially if proper maintenance isn't followed. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help mitigate these risks.
Regarding recalls, it's crucial to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for any specific recalls affecting the 2018 SQ5 model. Common areas for recalls across various Audi models include issues with airbags, fuel systems, and electrical components.
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the complexity of the vehicle's systems. As with many modern luxury vehicles, the SQ5 has numerous electronic components that could potentially fail over time. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Be aware that turbocharger issues can arise over time, especially if proper maintenance isn't followed. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help mitigate these risks.
How long will the 2018 Audi SQ5 last?
With proper maintenance, a 2018 Audi SQ5 can easily reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or provide 10-12 years of service. Average mileage depends heavily on driving habits, but 12,000-15,000 miles per year is typical. Long-term durability hinges on adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule. Weaknesses over time can include turbocharger wear, suspension component degradation, and potential issues with the complex electronics. Regular servicing, particularly oil changes and inspections, is key to maximizing its lifespan. Watch for signs of oil leaks and address them promptly.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2018 Audi SQ5 boasts a strong suite of built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard features include Audi's MMI infotainment system with a 7-inch display (upgradable to 8.3 inches), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium sound system.
Driver-assistance features include standard Audi pre sense basic and city, which can detect potential collisions and initiate preventative measures. Available options include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a top-view camera system. The Audi virtual cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster, is also a desirable feature.
Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are generally very good, with the SQ5 often earning top safety scores. It's essential to check the specific ratings for the 2018 model year on their respective websites. The optional features enhance the driving experience and significantly improve safety.
Driver-assistance features include standard Audi pre sense basic and city, which can detect potential collisions and initiate preventative measures. Available options include adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a top-view camera system. The Audi virtual cockpit, a fully digital instrument cluster, is also a desirable feature.
Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags.
Crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are generally very good, with the SQ5 often earning top safety scores. It's essential to check the specific ratings for the 2018 model year on their respective websites. The optional features enhance the driving experience and significantly improve safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Brilliant Black
Ibis White
Mythos Black Metallic
Navarra Blue Metallic
Manhattan Gray Metallic
Matador Red Metallic
Moonlight Blue Metallic
Crescendo Red Metallic
Interior Colors
Rock Gray
Black
Magma Red
2018 Audi SQ5 Prices and Market Value
The 2018 Audi SQ5 had a starting price around $55,000 when new, with higher trims reaching $65,000 or more. Current used market prices typically range from $28,000 to $40,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. Depreciation is moderate for a luxury SUV. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, service history, and whether it has desirable options like the virtual cockpit or driver-assistance packages. Well-maintained examples with low mileage command higher prices.
2018 Audi SQ5 Cost of Ownership
The 2018 Audi SQ5 is moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance rates are higher than average due to its performance capabilities and luxury status. Fuel costs are reasonable but premium fuel is required. Maintenance, including oil changes and scheduled services, can be expensive. Repairs, especially those involving specialized Audi parts or labor, can also be costly. While not the most economical choice, the SQ5 offers a premium driving experience that some owners find worth the expense.
2018 Audi SQ5 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
21 gallons
City Mileage
19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
24 miles/gallon
2018 Audi SQ5 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Audi SQ5 Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:caliper
Recall date
2018-06-01
Recall no.
18v369000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, Passat, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Golf, Golf Sportwagen and GTI and Audi Q5 and SQ5 Vehicles. THE Brake Caliper Pistons ON These Vehicles MAY Have Insufficient Coating, Potentially Reducing THE Brake Performance.
Consequence
A Reduction OF Braking Performance CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen and Audi Will Notify Their Owners. Audi Dealers Will Bleed THE Rear Brakes. Volkswagen Dealers Will Bleed THE Front and Rear Brake Calipers. Note: Owners ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Brake System HAS Been Checked. THE Recall Began June 29, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 and Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE 47n8, 47n9, and 47n6.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Wheels:hub
Recall date
2019-06-05
Recall no.
19v416000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Audi Q5 and SQ5 Vehicles. THE Wheel Arch Cover Trim MAY Loosen and Detach.
Consequence
THE Detached Trim MAY Become A Road Hazard, Increasing THE Risk OF Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Secure THE Wheel Arch Trim With AN Additional Screw and Nut, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 26, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 66k6.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body
Recall date
2019-10-16
Recall no.
19v737000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Audi) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Audi SQ5 and 2018-2020 Audi Q5 Vehicles. THE Rear Wheel Arch Cover Trim MAY Loosen and Detach From THE Vehicle.
Consequence
THE Detached Trim MAY Become A Road Hazard, Increasing THE Risk OF Crash.
Remedy
Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Four Clips Securing THE Forward Part OF THE Rear Wheel Arch Trim, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 1, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Audi's Number FOR This Recall IS 66k8.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2019-04-08
Recall no.
19v277000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Audi) IS Recalling Certain 2018-2019 Audi Q5 and SQ5 Vehicles. THE Brake Master Cylinder Casting MAY BE TOO Short.
Consequence
A Short Casting CAN Cause A Sudden Loss OF Brakes, Increasing THE Risk OF Crash. THE Electronic Parking Brake and ITS Emergency Brake Function ARE NOT Affected and Will Still Function.
Remedy
Audi HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Brake Master Cylinder, Replacing IT AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 3, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Audi's Number FOR This Recall IS 47o9.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body
Recall date
2021-12-08
Recall no.
21v947000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Audi) IS Recalling Certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 Vehicles. A Liquid Spill IN THE Rear Seat, or Water Ingress From AN Insufficient Body Seam Underneath THE Vehicle MAY Allow Liquid TO Penetrate THE Gateway Control Module, Causing IT TO Shutdown.
Consequence
A Gateway Control Module Shutdown Will Suddenly Reduce Engine Power, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Protective Cover ON THE Gateway Control Module and Seal AN Underbody Seam AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 21, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Audi's Number FOR This Recall IS 90s9.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Electrical System:body Control Module/Bcm
Recall date
2021-12-08
Recall no.
21v947000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Audi) IS Recalling Certain 2021-2022 Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, 2018-2022 Q5, and SQ5 Vehicles. A Liquid Spill IN THE Rear Seat, or Water Ingress From AN Insufficient Body Seam Underneath THE Vehicle MAY Allow Liquid TO Penetrate THE Gateway Control Module, Causing IT TO Shutdown.
Consequence
A Gateway Control Module Shutdown Will Suddenly Reduce Engine Power, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Protective Cover ON THE Gateway Control Module and Seal AN Underbody Seam AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 21, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Audi's Number FOR This Recall IS 90s9.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2018 Audi SQ5 Insurance
Insurance for a 2018 Audi SQ5 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Audi SQ5 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2018 Audi SQ5 competes with other performance SUVs like the BMW X3 M40i, Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, and Porsche Macan. In terms of performance, the SQ5 offers a compelling blend of power and handling, though the X3 M40i might be slightly quicker. Feature-wise, the SQ5 is well-equipped, but the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 boasts a more luxurious interior. Reliability is generally good, but the Porsche Macan might have a slight edge.
Price-wise, the SQ5 is competitive within its class. The X3 M40i and GLC 43 are similarly priced, while the Macan can be more expensive depending on the configuration.
Alternatives to consider include the Acura RDX A-Spec for a more affordable option with good features, or the Volvo XC60 T6/T8 for a focus on safety and Scandinavian design. The Lexus NX 300h is a good option for those prioritizing reliability and fuel economy. If you prioritize driving dynamics, the BMW X3 M40i is a strong contender. However, the SQ5 offers a well-rounded package of performance, features, and luxury.
Price-wise, the SQ5 is competitive within its class. The X3 M40i and GLC 43 are similarly priced, while the Macan can be more expensive depending on the configuration.
Alternatives to consider include the Acura RDX A-Spec for a more affordable option with good features, or the Volvo XC60 T6/T8 for a focus on safety and Scandinavian design. The Lexus NX 300h is a good option for those prioritizing reliability and fuel economy. If you prioritize driving dynamics, the BMW X3 M40i is a strong contender. However, the SQ5 offers a well-rounded package of performance, features, and luxury.
Ranks #844 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 844 | 2018 Audi SQ5 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Audi SQ5 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2018 Audi SQ5 is ideal for those seeking a sporty and luxurious compact SUV with a balance of performance and practicality. It's worth buying, especially on the used market, if you appreciate its driving dynamics and premium features. Opting for the Premium Plus or Prestige trim is recommended, as they offer a significant upgrade in features and technology. A used SQ5 with a well-documented maintenance history is preferable. If you prioritize raw performance above all else, consider the BMW X3 M40i. However, the SQ5 offers a more refined and well-rounded experience.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.