Looking for feedback on Allroad vs SQ5

[cchili00]

So just a little background...I've been in a Stage 1 B5 A4 since purchasing it lightly used in 2001. After 18 years, I think it's finally time to upgrade (actually got the wife upgraded to a 2013 Q7 Prestige w/B&O a few years ago, so now it's my turn)! I've pretty much narrowed down the choice to either a B8.5 Allroad or B8.5 SQ5.
I've been an Avant lover for as long as I can remember, and for a while there I was seriously considering looking for a low mileage B6 S4 Avant to make my new DD. Something about the B6 that has long made it a favorite of mine. However, when folks started modifying the B8/8.5 Allroads, and realizing how outdated the tech on the B6 had become, I knew that was the direction I would eventually go (with some nice wheels, a stage 1 tune, exhaust, and dropped on air suspension to start).

Fast forward to a couple of months ago, went to test drive a 2016 Allroad for the first time, and found myself a bit underwhelmed by the rear passenger leg room. I primarily just drive my car to and from work, but was hoping to have this car be a little more available as an alternative to the Q7 as a family hauler on the weekends. My kids are still young, so it probably wouldn't be too much of an issue for another several years, but eventually as they get bigger I could see it getting a little cramped back there. So after having my mind pretty much made up, I found myself questioning whether the Allroad was really the right choice.

I'd never really given much thought to the Q5 platform, but after seeing some really nice examples on lowered suspensions, they suddenly started to strike me as looking like a slightly taller Allroad. So I went and test drove a B8.5 Q5 2.0T, 3.0T, and SQ5, in that order. 2.0T was completely underwhelming, 3.0T seemed sufficient, but the SQ had me grinning (and my wife a little scared). After reading up on the tuning options available, I realized a simple stage 1 tune would be bring the Q5 well beyond a stock SQ5, so was strongly considering that option. But then I fell in love with Sepang Blue after seeing a couple of really nice modded examples on here (sammi_s and staticuxo), and with the reasonable price difference between the two decided it would definitely be the SQ5 in Sepang if I went the Q route, and for the last few weeks had pretty much made up my mind on going that direction.

Fast forward to last week and as I'm driving home from work I pull up next to a super clean modded Allroad, and just like that, I'm finding myself back looking at Allroads yet again. It's about a $10k difference between the two for similar year and mileage with the options I would want on both, so started thinking about all of the mods that could pay for on the Allroad (plus if I went with the SQ5 I would still be paying for aftermarket wheels, coilovers, and exhaust to start, and probably get the tune eventually as well). So I'm basically right back to square one. Looking for some convincing one way or the other. Someone please slap some sense into me!!

p.s. Cross-posting this in the Allroad section as well to get equal feedback from both sides.

[buggravy]

I think it comes down to what's more important: how you feel looking at the vehicle, and how you feel driving the vehicle. While modded Qs are subjectively cool and unique looking, a well done Allroad is pretty hard to beat from an aesthetic point of view. However I don't think the driving experience of a modded Allroad is going to compare to even a stock SQ5, much less a modded SQ5. When I was at the dealership for service the other day I poked my head in several B8.5 Q5s that were for sale on the lot, and once they (and the nearly identical Allroad interior) get some age on them I feel like the added quality of the SQ5 helps mitigate the datedness of the interiors. The fine Nappa leather, contrast stitching, meaty leather wrapped steering wheel, and carbon inlays really help the car to still feel special. I've given some thought to selling mine lately, and every time I start to get serious about it I get in it and think how shitty it would feel to see it go. I'm also pretty biased when it comes to Sepang in particular. When it's properly cleaned up it's a really stunning color, and I get compliments from strangers frequently. Pic included for attention.

[RoofRails]

I would say the 3.0T is worth the price tag. I have had a wicked up 1.8T before and for sound in my opinion there is no comparison. 3.0T hands down with a intake and AWE exhaust is a game changer.

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[dnoyeb]

personally went from an 8.5 allroad to the sq5 and wouldn't look back unless they brought the s4 wagon over here...

[cchili00]

buggravy, everything you just said pretty much aligns with my thinking, based on my brief experiences test driving each vehicle. I didn't mention it in my post, but the interior on the SQ5 was definitely impressive and one of the factors that sold me on it over the Q5, and almost made the Allroad/Q5 interiors feel slightly uninspired in comparison. That said, I still think they are nice interiors, just not quite on the same level as the SQ5. Man the Sepang looks so good on that. I was also struggling with whether or not I would go with the black optics, which I generally prefer on pretty much every other color, but then saw sammi_s' SQ5 with the Sepang and chrome trim and for some reason that look really resonated with me. But I also love the more aggressive look the BO gives it as well. Ha, I just noticed you are in Calabasas, I'm actually just up the road from you in Oak Park.

[cchili00]

I would say the 3.0T is worth the price tag. I have had a wicked up 1.8T before and for sound in my opinion there is no comparison. 3.0T hands down with a intake and AWE exhaust is a game changer.

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Yeah, I would definitely go with the AWE exhaust if I go with the SQ5. And I agree the 3.0T obviously provides the most bang for the buck with a stage 1 tune vs the 2.0T, I guess I just question whether I really need the 400+ HP vs 300+ HP with E85 on the 2.0T.

[cchili00]

personally went from an 8.5 allroad to the sq5 and wouldn't look back unless they brought the s4 wagon over here...

Appreciate that input, especially as someone who's obviously spent time in both. Curious what your specific reasons are for preferring the SQ5 over the Allroad?

[buggravy]

buggravy, everything you just said pretty much aligns with my thinking, based on my brief experiences test driving each vehicle. I didn't mention it in my post, but the interior on the SQ5 was definitely impressive and one of the factors that sold me on it over the Q5, and almost made the Allroad/Q5 interiors feel slightly uninspired in comparison. That said, I still think they are nice interiors, just not quite on the same level as the SQ5. Man the Sepang looks so good on that. I was also struggling with whether or not I would go with the black optics, which I generally prefer on pretty much every other color, but then saw sammi_s' SQ5 with the Sepang and chrome trim and for some reason that look really resonated with me. But I also love the more aggressive look the BO gives it as well. Ha, I just noticed you are in Calabasas, I'm actually just up the road from you in Oak Park.

Oh yeah, we're more or less neighbors. I ride my mountain bike over in Cheeseboro all the time. You're welcome to come take a spin in mine sometime if you want to get a feel for what a modded/tuned SQ feels like if you think it would help with your decision.

[cchili00]

Oh yeah, we're more or less neighbors. I ride my mountain bike over in Cheeseboro all the time. You're welcome to come take a spin in mine sometime if you want to get a feel for what a modded/tuned SQ feels like if you think it would help with your decision.

That would be awesome, I may just have to take you up on that. Thanks for the offer!

[cchili00]

Just for comparison, here is an example of the directions I'd be looking to go with the SQ5 or Allroad...

sammi_s:


Erwheezy:

[buggravy]

One other thought, if you have your heart set on Sepang but don't want to throw down for an SQ5, there was a Sepang Q5 3.0T for 2016. Might be kind of a needle in a haystack, as it was only available with a particular package (Competition Package, I believe it was called) that had black optics and the 21" wheels from the SQ5 that were finished like the BO wheels for 2017.

[cchili00]

One other thought, if you have your heart set on Sepang but don't want to throw down for an SQ5, there was a Sepang Q5 3.0T for 2016. Might be kind of a needle in a haystack, as it was only available with a particular package (Competition Package, I believe it was called) that had black optics and the 21" wheels from the SQ5 that were finished like the BO wheels for 2017.

Interesting, I wasn't aware that was an available option on the Q5. Honestly, I think I'd rather shell out the extra coin to get the upgraded interior on the S. Plus, like you said, would probably have to wait longer than I'm willing to for one of those to surface.

[Eflight]

I have one of the 2016 Sepang Blue 3.0 cars.

Came with :
Technology Package (NAv + B&O stereo)
Black Optics Package (+ flat bottom steering wheel with paddles)
S line Competition package (21" wheels)
Tow Hitch (one of the reasons I got it)
Sport Interior Package (Sport seats)

Yes, pretty rare, There was only 1 on the lots in my state when I bought it.

I call it my poor mans SQ5, but its really a great car for the money.

[choppstixxx]

They also offered Scuba Blue in the 3.0T Q5 which is pretty similar to Sepang, maybe a little easier to find. I will say if you can locate a Lava Grey, that color is the bees knees.

Scuba Blue:


Lava Grey:

[buggravy]

I have one of the 2016 Sepang Blue 3.0 cars.

Came with :
Technology Package (NAv + B&O stereo)
Black Optics Package (+ flat bottom steering wheel with paddles)
S line Competition package (21" wheels)
Tow Hitch (one of the reasons I got it)
Sport Interior Package (Sport seats)

Yes, pretty rare, There was only 1 on the lots in my state when I bought it.

I call it my poor mans SQ5, but its really a great car for the money.

Pretty rare for sure, and in stock form I think it actually looked better than the SQ5 from the same year because the 21" wheels had the black treatment that ended up on the BO Pack for 2017. From memory I think they offered Suzuka Grey with that S Line Competition pack as well.

[choppstixxx]

A few nice examples of some rare combos:

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...3139/overview/
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...9297/overview/

[cchili00]

A few nice examples of some rare combos:

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...3139/overview/
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...9297/overview/

Nice finds, that Sepang one looks really well appointed, although it's pretty much in SQ5 territory as far as price.

[cchili00]

Ok, so I have a 2014 Allroad w/Black Sport interior (one owner, only 31k miles) on hold to go look at on Sunday, up in Northern California. Saw it online, and just so happen to be close to that area for vacation this weekend so figured I might as well go check it out. I was really thinking more along the lines of a 2016 initially, but this one is fully optioned the way I wanted, with the exception of the black headliner (which I think is maybe only available on the 2016 sport interior?), and with such low mileage seems reasonably well priced at $24k. That's about $10k less than the SQ5's I've been seeing, so would leave plenty of room for air suspension, wheels, exhaust, tune, etc.

Still haven't made up my mind if this is the direction I want to go, but if everything looks good with this one I may just pull the trigger.

[Turtleteeth]

A few nice examples of some rare combos:

https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...3139/overview/
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...9297/overview/

Love for the color as a fellow Sepang owner... Nice find. But for that price, I couldn’t do it for this reason alone...



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[VroomVroom]

I want to love the Allroad. Actually, I want to love an S4 Avant. Sigh. But the cards are just too stacked for me, for a few reasons:

1. Depreciation. Good Lord. (But awesome if you're buying used and plan to keep it for awhile.)
2. Power. Just not enough of it. Very noticeable when driving solo. A hindrance with passengers and cargo.
3. Still not quite enough rear passenger room. As Tyrone said in Snatch, "It's too tight." The Q wins out if only because you don't have to bend down while trying to find places for your knees and feet.

More of #2 would've easily squelched #'s 1 and 3 for me.

[JD S4]

Ok, so I have a 2014 Allroad w/Black Sport interior (one owner, only 31k miles) on hold to go look at on Sunday, up in Northern California. Saw it online, and just so happen to be close to that area for vacation this weekend so figured I might as well go check it out. I was really thinking more along the lines of a 2016 initially, but this one is fully optioned the way I wanted, with the exception of the black headliner (which I think is maybe only available on the 2016 sport interior?), and with such low mileage seems reasonably well priced at $24k. That's about $10k less than the SQ5's I've been seeing, so would leave plenty of room for air suspension, wheels, exhaust, tune, etc.

Still haven't made up my mind if this is the direction I want to go, but if everything looks good with this one I may just pull the trigger.

As discussed. These are TOTALLY different cars. But the $10k you save here makes this an apples and oranges comparison. If you want t built, bagged car and don’t mind that it’s slow - the Avant and it won’t be close. They really aren’t comparable in most ways. The 3.0 is magic, the car is much larger and the options are about day and night.

Good luck with the Avant. That one you posted above is fucking sexy.


Sent from my

[cchili00]

3. Still not quite enough rear passenger room. As Tyrone said in Snatch, "It's too tight." The Q wins out if only because you don't have to bend down while trying to find places for your knees and feet.

That's the biggest one I'm struggling with, because I agree it's pretty tight back there, moreso than I was expecting. The only reason it's not a complete deal breaker for me is 99% of the time I'm driving solo. Anytime we've got the whole family going somewhere we're in the Q7. It's definitely a consideration though.

As far as the lack of power, I'm coming from a B5 1.8T, so while compared to the SQ5 even a tuned 2.0T isn't going to be close, I imagine it's still going to feel considerably more powerful than what I'm currently used to. But it's definitely a valid point.

[cchili00]

As discussed. These are TOTALLY different cars. But the $10k you save here makes this an apples and oranges comparison. If you want t built, bagged car and don’t mind that it’s slow - the Avant and it won’t be close. They really aren’t comparable in most ways. The 3.0 is magic, the car is much larger and the options are about day and night.

Good luck with the Avant. That one you posted above is fucking sexy.


Sent from my

Yep, pretty much comes down to the exterior styling and lower price of the Allroad vs the interior styling/quality and increased power and space of the SQ5...Uggh, you guys aren't making this decision any easier 😫

[dassq5]

Back in the summer of 2015, I was absolutely fed up with my 2013 RR Evoque. Tested a RR Sport, then went across the street to test an Allroad. I really wanted to like the Allroad, but was underwhelmed with road feel and interior space. Told the salesrep I was gonna go and take a look at Bimmers (had owned them exclusively from 1995-2013). He asked if I wouldn't mind trying an SQ5. Took a test drive and SOLD!! Absolutely loved the entire package.

Still had a yen for a VAG wagon ... bought a 2018 Alltrack with the 6 yr/72K mi warranty as our second car to scratch that itch.

I'd go for the SQ5...

[dubjager]

I'll chime in here.

I bought an allroad back in 2016. Love avants and loved the utility of it. Read a lot before purchasing about how "underpowered" it was. Don't know what you guys normally drive, but it is just fine. Right now, I have an S4 FBSW with paddles and it completely changed the car for me. I think it has more than enough kick-- and I'm coming from a lightened and modded Porsche 911.

That said, our SQ5 does have more room. I think it is most noticeable in the trunk, since the rear window doesn't slope as much you really can fit a lot more stuff. The allroad is great, but here the SQ5/Q5 is the true winner.

Our SQ5 has a APR stage 2 tune, pulleys, etc and it is a lot of fun to drive. Now that my work schedule has changed I can take the train into work so we're putting the allroad up for sale. We just took the SQ5 into the smoky mountains last weekend and the car performed flawlessly on the mountain roads. I was really surprised since I thought I'd miss my 911 (new baby and dog prevented us from taking the Porsche). I'm already looking into some suspension modifications to complement the car.

My only gripe with the SQ5/Q5 is that I feel like I am sitting on top of it, rather than in it. If you know what I mean. The seating position of the A4 is much more comfortable for me, but honestly, it isn't a deal breaker. Plus the fact you can tow with the Q5/SQ5. Seems like a no brainer.

[Miller136]

The lack of rear leg room is why I went back to the C6 A6 Avant with a 3.0T. Hard to find and about 10 years old. But with the savings vs newer, it leaves plenty of room for mods.
The comment above about sitting on top of a vehicle vs in it is why I don’t like SUVs.
Another option is to wait for an RS6 Avant. Plenty of power and leg room. Probably won’t leave much room in your budget for mods. Haha!!


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[chip_]

I have a 2013 Allroad and really like it. We also have a Q5 and like people mentioned it does have more leg room in the back seats. I have had both cars in for service and had the following loaner Cars - Sq5, Q8, and A8L. All fun in different ways but if I was to jump to something else I think it would be the Quantum Gray SQ5. This one makes me drool every time I look at it - https://www.audizine.com/forum/showt...is-one-is-mine

But you already have a Q7 so that makes it more interesting in deciding. Both cars can be modded and look great!

[cchili00]

I really appreciate everyone's feedback on this thread. Ended up pulling the trigger on the Allroad I went to look at yesterday, so decision is officially made. I really could've gone either way, but this one popped up and had everything I was looking for at the right price, so I went for it. Again thank you all for the various perspectives and insights, it really was helpful!

[ILVTRANCE]

Oh damn I'm late to the thread.. I would have gone SQ5 all the way. Good luck with the allroad.

[choppstixxx]

If only they made the Allroad with 3.0T engine, what a magical vehicle that would be. I'm sure a swap wouldn't be too hard since the B8.5 S4 and Allroad share the same platform...

[uncleiggy]

If only they made the Allroad with 3.0T engine, what a magical vehicle that would be. I'm sure a swap wouldn't be too hard since the B8.5 S4 and Allroad share the same platform...

The A6 Allroad comes with the 3.0T, it will hit the US next year though: https://www.autoblog.com/2019/10/02/...united-states/

[choppstixxx]

The A6 Allroad comes with the 3.0T, it will hit the US next year though: https://www.autoblog.com/2019/10/02/...united-states/

Yea and the older A6 Avants look fugly as hell