The Q5 is Audi’s compact crossover, and the SQ5 is a spicier version of that vehicle. It primarily competes against the BMW X3 M40i, Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 and Porsche Macan S. The SQ5 was last redesigned for the 2018 model year and was refreshed for 2021, so 2022 brings no changes of note.

The 2022 SQ5 carries over last year’s turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, developing 349 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It’s backed by the same eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and the same intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Zero to 60 mph arrives in a scant 4.7 seconds, according to Audi. Adaptive dampers or an available air suspension system, and available variable steering all help keep the SQ5’s handling in line.

Standard equipment for the SQ5 in the base Premium grade includes LED exterior lighting, leather-and-premium-textile upholstery, the 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, power-folding and heated exterior mirrors, insulated windows, a power liftgate, 3-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, LED interior lighting, heated front seats, a 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench seat, aluminum interior trim and a power tilt/telescoping steering column.

The Premium Plus trim adds a heated steering wheel, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a panoramic sunroof. The Prestige trim tops the range with heated rear seats, premium LED exterior lighting, navigation, and Bang & Olufsen 3D sound. Full leather upholstery, upgraded wheels, cooled front seats, and rear window sunshades are yet more available options.

As far as safety goes, the Premium trim comes standard with a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Other trims add a top-view camera system, adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, a head-up display, and traffic-sign recognition. Rear-side thoracic airbags are an a-la-carte option. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Q5 family good marks, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded it a Top Safety Pick + designation, its highest honor.

The SQ5 may be an SUV, but it sacrifices very little in the way of performance.