The luxury SUV market is a highly competitive segment, and two of the top contenders in this space are the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. Both offer a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and utility, making them appealing choices for those seeking a high-end, sporty SUV. In this in-depth comparison, we’ll explore the key differences and similarities between these two premium performance SUVs to help you determine which one might be the better fit for your needs.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Design | Sleek and sporty, with Audi’s signature design language and distinctive S model touches. | Aggressive and muscular, with AMG-specific styling cues that set it apart from the standard GLC. |
| Dimension | Length: 4,671 mm, Width: 1,893 mm, Height: 1,635 mm | Length: 4,669 mm, Width: 1,890 mm, Height: 1,639 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,819 mm | 2,873 mm |
Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 possess striking designs that command attention on the road. The Audi sports a more refined and understated look, while the Mercedes-AMG sports a more aggressive and muscular stance.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 | 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 |
| Power | 349 hp | 362 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 384 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic automatic | 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro all-wheel drive | 4MATIC all-wheel drive |
Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 are powered by high-performance turbocharged V6 engines, delivering impressive power and torque figures. The Mercedes-AMG engine produces slightly more power and torque, but the Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system may give it an advantage in certain driving conditions.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 5.1 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 edges out the Audi SQ5 in terms of straight-line acceleration, with a quicker 0-60 mph time. However, both vehicles are more than capable of delivering thrilling performance.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension | Adaptive dampers, five-link front and rear suspension | Air suspension, five-link front and rear suspension |
| Steering | Electromechanical power steering | Electromechanical power steering |
| Brakes | 13.8-inch front, 13.0-inch rear discs | 14.2-inch front, 12.6-inch rear discs |
The Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 both offer excellent handling characteristics, with their respective all-wheel drive systems and well-tuned suspensions. The Mercedes-AMG’s air suspension may give it a slight edge in terms of ride comfort, while the Audi’s brakes are slightly smaller but likely provide sufficient stopping power for most driving scenarios.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Space | 26.8 cu. ft. (rear seats up), 60.4 cu. ft. (rear seats down) | 19.4 cu. ft. (rear seats up), 56.5 cu. ft. (rear seats down) |
| Interior Materials | High-quality leather, aluminum, and soft-touch plastics | High-quality leather, wood, and soft-touch plastics |
Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 offer well-appointed and luxurious cabin designs, with premium materials and attention to detail. The Audi SQ5 has a slight advantage in terms of cargo space, while the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 may offer a more cosseting ride quality thanks to its air suspension.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | Audi MMI Navigation Plus with 8.3-inch display | Mercedes-Benz MBUX with 10.25-inch display |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit | 12.3-inch Mercedes-Benz Digital Instrument Cluster |
| Connectivity | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth |
Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 offer state-of-the-art infotainment systems and digital displays. The Audi’s MMI system is known for its intuitiveness, while the Mercedes-Benz MBUX offers advanced voice control and artificial intelligence features.
| Feature | Audi SQ5 | Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $53,900 | $59,500 |
| Typical Loaded Price | $60,000 - $70,000 | $65,000 - $75,000 |
The Audi SQ5 has a slightly lower starting MSRP compared to the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a high-performance luxury SUV. However, both vehicles can quickly climb in price when equipped with various optional features and packages.
In the battle of the high-performance luxury SUVs, the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 both offer a compelling package of power, refinement, and attention to detail. The Audi SQ5 may appeal to those who prioritize a more understated, yet still engaging, driving experience, while the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 caters to those who desire a more overt, aggressive performance persona.
Ultimately, the choice between these two premium SUVs will come down to personal preferences, budget, and the specific features and capabilities that are most important to you. Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 are exceptional vehicles that are sure to deliver an exhilarating driving experience.
What are the key differences between the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43? The main differences lie in their engine and powertrain configurations, as well as their overall styling and design approaches. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has a slightly more powerful engine and a sportier, more aggressive appearance, while the Audi SQ5 offers a more refined and understated look.
How do the performance figures compare between the two models? The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has a slight edge in acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds compared to the Audi SQ5’s 5.1 seconds. Both models have a top speed limited to 155 mph.
Which model has better handling and driving dynamics? Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 offer excellent handling and driving characteristics, thanks to their all-wheel drive systems and well-tuned suspensions. The Audi’s Quattro system may provide a slight advantage in certain driving conditions.
How do the interior and tech features compare? The Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 both have well-appointed and luxurious interiors, with high-quality materials and advanced technology features. The Audi offers a slightly larger cargo space, while the Mercedes-Benz MBUX infotainment system may have an edge in terms of voice control and artificial intelligence capabilities.
Which model offers better value for the money? The Audi SQ5 has a slightly lower starting MSRP, making it the more affordable option between the two. However, both vehicles can quickly climb in price when equipped with various optional features and packages.
Are there any notable safety features or driver assistance technologies available? Both the Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, among others.
How do the fuel efficiency and emissions compare? The Audi SQ5 and the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 both feature turbocharged V6 engines, which typically offer better fuel efficiency compared to larger, naturally aspirated engines. However, their exact fuel economy and emissions figures may vary depending on the specific driving conditions and chosen configuration.