Audi is readying a next-generation SQ5, but it’s unclear what will power it.
The third-generation Q5 and SQ5 range is expected to be the last to offer petrol and diesel engines, as Audi plans to stop selling cars with internal combustion powertrains outside of China by 2033.
It’ll also find itself sharing showroom space with the upcoming electric Q6 e-tron SUV, based on a platform co-developed by Audi and Porsche.
The next Q5 and SQ5 are expected to debut in 2024, with a Sportback ‘coupe SUV’ body style expected to follow the conventional wagon.
The regular Q5 has already been spied testing, but this prototype appears to be an SQ5 based on the quad exhaust outlets and slightly larger brakes.
The current SQ5 is now available in Australia exclusively with a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 featuring a 48V mild-hybrid system and outputs of 251kW and 700Nm.
It was previously offered with a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6 with 260kW and 500Nm. This powertrain continues to be offered in markets like North America.
Whatever engine the next SQ5 ends up using, it’s likely to employ a mild-hybrid system. Audi is, however, expected to introduce a hot twin-turbo V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain in hotter models like the next RS4.
It’s understood this next-generation Q5 and SQ5 will use an updated version of the exisiting MLB Evo platform, like the next-generation Audi A4 that has been spied previously.
While our photographers weren’t able to capture this prototype’s interior, it’s likely to feature a similar design to the new A4.
The next-generation sedan and wagon have been spied featuring a larger touchscreen that incorporates the climate controls, and sits next to a free-standing digital instrument cluster.
The SQ5’s exterior appears to be an evolution of the current car’s design, with a similar silhouette.
The wheelbase appears slightly longer, which could result in more passenger and cargo space.
The headlights appear to be production-ready LED units, though the tail lights are prototype units.
While the camouflage disguises much of the SQ5’s body, it appears there’ll be a subtler side crease than the current car.
The current-generation Audi Q5 has been on sale locally since 2017 and received a refresh in 2021.
current SQ5 Sportback 
current SQ5 wagon 
It remains one of the top-selling mid-sized luxury SUVs in Australia, with 1861 sales to the end of June 2022 inclusive of the SQ5.
That put it behind only the BMW X3 (2486), Mercedes-Benz GLC (2577 wagons and 1037 coupes), and Volvo XC60 (2044), and ahead of the Lexus NX (1732) and Porsche Macan (1585).
MORE: Everything Audi SQ5
