The latest entry in a rapidly growing segment of high-performance SUVs is the redesigned-for-2018 Audi SQ5, with the “S” indicating that this is indeed the sportiest expression of the automaker’s popular compact crossover (at least for now – see below). The SQ5 puts its power to the pavement both smoothly and suddenly via an eight-speed “tiptronic” automatic transmission and “quattro” all-wheel-drive. As one might expect, the SQ5 includes multiple operating modes – Audi calls this “drive select” – including, comfort, auto, dynamic, and a customizable individual profile. And there’s no point paying a stiff premium for the SQ5 to leave it in the more-passive comfort setting. And while the Audi SQ5 is costly for a compact crossover – base price here is $54,300 and our tester stickered out at $68,750 – it’s competitive in the high-performance end of the luxury market.

Source: Forbes March 29, 2018 13:35 UTC