GERMAN BATTLE! -- 2022 BMW X3 M40i vs. Audi SQ5: Comparison
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- Опубликовано: 18 май 2024
- Join us as we FACEOFF the 2022 BMW X3 M40i vs. 2021 Audi SQ5 Prestige! These two German (performance) hot-sellers pack some serious style, technology, and power to the table! But which one is the KING of the segment?? Go ahead: CLICK to find out :) Also, be sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE if you enjoyed this review -- it helps us more than you can imagine!
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I've had both - If you want more sportiness, faster acceleration, and have a great lower back to handle the stiffer suspension, go with the X3 M40i; if you want a more compliant ride, better AWD system, more comfortable seats, but willing to sacrifice some sportiness, pick the SQ5. To me, X3 M40i is a machine that scores 95 in certain categories but 75 in some others; SQ5 is an all-rounder that scores 85 in all categories. Can't go wrong with either.
I agree with most of this. However, the AWD system in the BMW has been fantastic in my experience. I've had mine in some questionable situations both off road and in the snow, and it has exceeded my expectations. With DSC on it is nearly impossible to lose traction on dry surfaces.
@@garnetblackattack419 i've had 5 series and x5 previously and both had swung tails on highway during snowy winter. i've also had multiple Audis, none did that. All vehicles equipped with snow tires.
@YHLWEI to each their own... I have never had a similar experience in any of the BMWs I have leased.
Non-runflat tires improve the hard suspension a great deal on the BMW. Run flats are like riding on hard plastic. An inch smaller wheels help too.
Audi “Quattro” just has better marketing. You can’t prove the “Quattro” is better than any other luxury brands all wheel drive.
love the way to compare it side by side, thank you !
Very great comparison on these 2 I would pick the BMW X3 because it was recently refreshed
Loving my 2022 X3 M40i. I’ve had it for 3 months and I keep coming up with excuses to drive it. It really does just about everything well and checks all of the boxes for me. One of the best cars I’ve ever owned.
I'm so glad they did the facelift. Now it's almost perfect in every aspect
Indeed! Awesome car!
Just make sure you dump it before warranty expires. You will be crying then
For three months? Stop capping dude. No way delivery was that fast.
@@IchbinLorenz Ordered 6/28/21, delivered 8/9/21. Got the dealer's first allocated slot.
They are both beautiful but I’m an Audi guy so I will choose the sq5 all day. Speaking of sq5.. placed a factory order for the 2022 sq5 prestige, fully loaded in options and in metallic white about 2 months ago.. still no production but cannot wait for it!!
Congratulation! Let me know your experience of driving the SQ5 cuz I am really struggling choosing between x3 and q5.
@@harryzhu6591 I’ve had both! I prefer the AUDI
I really like new bmw X3, glad they refreshed a lot.
The X3 M40i has been best in segment ever since it first came out.
Excellent, practical, thorough, straightforward review!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I love my 2022 SQ5 Prestige, with S sport package, black optics package, black Audi badges, in District Green Metallic, with the 21" wheels, Nappa Leather seats. I did not test drive the BMW, our dealership has had horrible inventory. I sold my 19 Shelby GT350, I needed a more practical car, but I had to have a sporty car, its just how I am. Thanks for the review!
Damn! Just got an X3 M40i and I still have my Shelby! 😂🤭
@@jeffcheng5058 I just bought a 2020 GT500! So I win, because the GT350 is sub par to the GT500, the double clutch, 760 HP, it is a beast! 😆
I just bought the 2023 Audi Sq5 prestige with Ssport package, sport exhaust ( a must have in my opinion!) and 21 inch summer tires. It’s a perfect blend, attractive/performance/practical.
You can’t go wrong with either one but you will not be disappointed with the AUDI
I also would suggest the trailer hitch…….to me an SUV must have the capability of towing and with 4400 lbs towing capacity it’s acceptable.
Don't you see the SQ5 plus 8R is the fastest? 0-100 in 4.8..,
Imo the Audi also looks twice as good..
Shoulda got the GV70 bro
@@JGisMe2013 Isn't that 199hp? Thats too dull for a big car..
@@HaywireGW2 no its 375hp. Faster than the Audi
Finally comparisons are back🎊
Bought the BMW X3 2 weeks ago, I'm enjoying it.
goodluck selling this car in 5 years, will retain no resale value (outside warranty and ev cars)
Yessss! Thank you so much, I've been looking forward to this video. Worth the wait! 👍Team Audi!!!
Excellent comparison as always, I can’t really pick a favorite here!😸
Great review man lovely cars I think I’d go X3
Very happy with my X3 M40i. No regrets or complaints after a month of ownership.
Does the M40i LCI have the “ track mode” like the F97 LCI?
That’s only a month 😂
@@Mokotarish two months now and still no complaints. Fun to drive every day. Also seeing as this generation has only been out for 3 months, it's hard to have much longer behind the wheel...
@@wegotbrent that’s awesome, glad you’re enjoying it. Thinking on getting one of these cars but since I already have an A5 I’m leaning towards the sq5. Always liked BMWs but I just think the SQ5 looks nicer exterior wise.
@@Mokotarish The SQ5 is a nice car. If you're loyal to Audi then it makes sense.
current gen BMW line up
They're, equally or more practical than the competition, also drives better (That's a BMWs core principle)
And sensibly priced.
Yep , before Mercedes use to be the quietest , now everything in a Benz looks good to fool people who don't know nothing about cars, but fit and finish and road noise is shit in Mercedes. Now BMW is quieter. But what Audi has that the others don't is the exceptional metal broke. As someone in the audo industry i tend to notice weld spots and body integration . No one does it better than audi. However audi lost its way in being the leader of interior quality. They use to have the best material , and fit and finish . They are still good , but now they are matched by bmw. Bmw might no look as fancy as mercedes, but they are light years ahead in build quality . Everything in a bmw is screwed together nicely. Bmw's Toooling precision is up a great deal. I'm guessing the Rolls Royce investment ended up paying off since the tech probably ends up trickling down to bmw and its lower models. Ive had to change a lot of airbags in bmw's after insurance right offs get sent to our shop . You learn a thing or 2 about their design.
Awesome video. Thanks for helping make the decision between the two!
Glad we could help! 😁
Great comparison video - no fluff just information- great video
Thank you!
Your reviews are amazing and very detailed! Thanks for the comparison.
Thanks so much!
Just came on this great comparison of two beasts! Would anyone here have an idea of how they compare in terms of reliability, durability and cost of maintenance over 15 years of ownership?
According to current owners, wireless Android auto does in fact work on the 22 SQ5. Will be taking delivery on mine next month and will confirm firsthand.
Can confirm on my 22 that it does in fact work
Good review, can’t go wrong with either. Are you guys going to review 2022 rdx next month or near future.
Thanks! We have plans to review the new RDX in a couple weeks!
BMW X3 M40i Is the right answer! Best Engine , best look , Way better engine than the Audi
And I worked at Audi .
BMW cost more to maintain
@@joshuajordan7145
I do all my maintenance it’s free
Nice comparison, I want to see a review of the 2022 BMW X3 M Competition, would that be possible for you guys, since you review a lot of great cars? No one has done a in depth review of the 2022 BMW X3 M Competition yet. I would love to see what you guys think of it if you ever review it.
Thanks! We will see if we can find one for you
nice comparison love your channel
Thanks! 😁
Just got my X3 m40i and it’s the best mid size suv you can buy….
Audi for me . It looks better. But a thing i really care about now in a vehicle is the features and my next vehicle has to have all these. Which for some reason I can't find. Maybe the genesis gv70 and then id.4 pro s:
ambient lighting, massage seats, speed, awd,
Rear seat entertainment, remote start, i seen the sq5 has heated and cooled cup holders, there is some more features like heads up display full led lighting. Etc but no cars are like that. Which means ima have to buy 2
Genesis GV70 is great. Just bought one and love the ambient lighting. Ive already used the remote start for the colder days and the warranties are great
@@hmmmhali I want it but the gas mileage is so bad my Audi can get 40 mpg
Audi for me... good looking car
I wish the Audi had the performance of the bmw but I love the look of the Audi. I think most bmws look awful
Just picked up my 2022 SQ5 and it’s amazing. Beemer was my second choice.
lol. sold my Q5 for X3. X3 far superior.
@@jzy0104 lol little BMW fan boy thinks their car is superior. OK if you say so.
@@IndoDiaspora X3 M40i is superior
@@IndoDiaspora B58 and ZF8 just like the Supra. What’s so much greater about the SQ5?
nice reviews man!!
Great comparison
We have the 18 X3 M40i. Drives so well and the sound... B58 for the win
Another thing to keep in mind is that the BMW app will allow you to remote start the vehicle if you pay extra for that service. Audi you have to have a third-party remote start system. If you live in cold weather climate that could be a dealbreaker.
The remote services/app usage are complimentary for 4 years, and you can also start the car with the key fob without any subscription service.
Best BMW X3 off all time. BMW wins without question!
There's no contest. The refreshed X3 M40i is superior to the Audi. Every facet.
I love both of them! I don’t know which one I would pick
Both are great, prefer the X3 ... looks and feel. Oh yeah!
Nice review… I would prefer the X4 M40i but both are great options.
Cheaper than a Porsche GTS too
Do a comparison with x3m and jaguar f pace svr
That B58 engine is way superior than what the SQ5 have
B58 is probably the best 6 cylinder engine you can buy in a vehicle under 85k
The b58 is such a new engine. No one really knows the reliability.
@@11onejay its not a new engine bruh. Its been there since 2015..
Oh really? I want to see a B58 in any bmw suv come close to the numbers my suv has ran. I just ran a 10.1s in the 1/4 on my B9 SQ5 LOL. Cute bmw.
@@Need4Built There are X3's in the 9s... you are late to the party.
Audi's Quatro is unmatched.
AUDI SQ5 for the younger guys who love that sporty look and BMW X3 for the older guys that want that executive look! You can't go wrong with one or the other.
Isn't the X3 a more engaging car for the younger demographic?
you got it in reverse
Heated rear seats are an option on the X3 with the leather seating package. These aren't comparably spec'd. BMW will top out around 70k, this one is missing a few things.
it’s not the options that are meant to be comparable it’s the price
Was looking at both of these cars and was sitting down to buy the Audi Sq5 when I was told that because of the chip shortage it would not be coming with wireless phone charger, automatic steering wheel adjustment and did not have remote start (but was kept at the same price). I then went to BMW and they just didn't have a great inventory. Finally found the Genesis GV70 and LOVE it! Its got all the features I need and is really comfortable. Maybe not quite as fun to drive as the BMW but definitely close !
Wait! My 2018 q5 was front wheel biased. When did that change?
2:50 We all know BMW deserved a 0.5
for it's exhaust. Sounds way better.
BMW sound is all fake...
@@DMCarReviews lol what? I have the x3m40i and for a while I was driving an s4 Audi (same engine in the sq5) - the bmw b58 is an animal compared to Audi and the exhaust is not fake. On cold start the thing rips. They may pipe the exhaust sound thru speakers but that doesn’t change the fact that I let people start and drive my car and it sounds amazing.
Sq5 exhaust pipes are turn down. The ones you see are fake! Eek.
For me the GLC AMG 43 is the one to go for. Anyway, all of them are great, it's just a matter of personal taste. Great comparison and review! Regards
Thanks!
Im not sure about air suspension in x3, but Audi has it. And it super nice!
These are two different crowds. The Audi is the comfortable GT while the BMW is more of the actual sporting option. Both are excellent but they are after two different audiences
I just picked up my X3 last week. I love it. I moved from the 440i and this bad boy does not disappoint.
Did u take the M version or the X3 xdrive ?
Gosh I own a 440i now and I'm thinking go switching to a X3 M40i.
Good work Gentlemen,,👍
what’s the song name in the intro ?
This video would have really helped me a lot early this year when i was cross shopping between these two. Ended up with the m340i and haven't regretted it a bit. Love the bimmer. Just want to point out that the 2021 x3 m40i even has the wireless charging pad. You said it doesn't. Nonetheless great video.
You ended up with the Bmw Sedan?
As far as the suspension and adjustable ride height of the SQ5 equipped with air suspension. Did you still feel the BMW X3 M40i was more comfortable and offered as much versatility? Especially wondering which you would prefer in snowy winter conditions.
No its much rougher. I am surprised they didnt mention this point as the air suspension is perfection in terms of ride height, comfort, and looks. X3 is sporty, which means its rough.
@@GoshaXxxx not true. Adaptive suspension really helps this. Also , they only mentioned the heavier steering in sport mode on the bmw feels more sporty, that doesnt mean its a harsher ride. Remember , nowadays many vehicles are not puttin air suspension in due to problems. Adaptive suspension has gotten so advanced , most of the time vehicles dont need the air suspension. Also, The bmw has all aluminum suspension , while the audi is half half .
The straight 6 just sounds a bit better to my ears. Yeah, I'ma goin with the X3 M40i
I will take the BMW :)
Huh, the BMW does not have leather padded center console on video or in person 4:48..
I will go for SQ5. It's simply the best.
Dude, I completely agree!
BMW all day
Drove them both and the X3M40i was clearly sharper, especially the brakes. I also don’t care for the weird curving front fender line on the SQ5. I bought the Bmer.
Currently have a 2020 M40i and traded in our Cayman for a 21 SQ5 on short notice since our baby came early. The SQ5 is nice and comfy but just wasn't exciting. With the used car market at an all-time high we were able to trade in the SQ5 just after 6 months for a GLC43 AMG. If you care about driving, between the 2 the M40i wins.
Which do you prefer to drive, the X3 M40i or the GLC43?
@@clinton3000 They are both very good but I personally prefer the M40i only because I'm more used to the iDrive. My wife drives the GLC43. You can't go wrong with either.
@@clinton3000 I have driven both and I noticed the Mercedes has more feel and feedback then the Bmw, but I prefer iDrive. Bmw is what I’d go with out of all 3, but it’s hard to go wrong with either, especially if you’re going to tune them or modify them
Just glad they got rid of the fake exhaust on the Audi. I think Audi looks better despite me owning a 2021 x3 m40i. but the b58 engine is just a beast.
Its still has a fake exhaust lol. Just has some tips to make it look real.
@@ericwalkr910 damn really? I saw one in real life it looked so real lmao. Damn it man, why would they still have a fake exhaust, I mean you are paying like $70K CAD for this freaking thing.
@@HEEHEEBOII yeah I really feel like they are ruining the look with the fake exhaust. At least these have tips tho haha. The other cars look worse
@@ericwalkr910 yeah true lmao I didn’t really test drive other models does the Q7 or Q8 have fake exhaust as well?
@@HEEHEEBOII I think they all do except for the RS models
I'd really appreciate it if someone credible could test 0-60 times in this segment with recent cars, rather than relying on manufacturer estimates. BMW is notoriously conservative in their estimates, while Audi not so much. Folks on bimmer boards have actually been hitting 4.1 rather than 4.4 (measured with Draggy). C&D regularly outperforms BMW's rated times. I'd be interested to compare these two and the GLC 43.
I bought a 2020 M40i after comparing the three. The M40i was the fastest at the time (and I think still may be) and had the best fuel economy and cargo volume. It also was a relative bargain for price out the door. But Audi has since improved power--at the time they rated the run to 60 at 5.1 seconds--which really wasn't competitive with the other two.
@@DMCarReviews Whether or not you and I agree on 0-60 times that the M40i can achieve, can we agree that it would help to have a credible source test these times?
C&D regularly beats BMW's stated times for pretty much all their cars. I suppose there's the whole 1 foot roll out thing that may be driving some disparity, but I think it's pretty much standard to exclude the roll out.
@@DMCarReviews If you search "car and driver x3 m40i" you can eventually find their review of the 2018 (I worry that if I get you the link directly they'll moderate away these comments). They get 4.4 to 60, and that was when the car was rated by BMW at 355 bhp and 4.8 to 60. They haven't tested an M40i since it got the 382 BHP version of the B58 (nor, so far as I can tell, has anyone else). GLC 43 also raised HP at the same time as X3 M40i--so who knows who wins nowadays? This is why I'd love it if a credible source could test the current offerings in this segment (I'm not thinking Draggy is credible). BTW, people on the boards seem to be reporting that the 48 volt mild hybrid 2022 B58 M40i might be a tick slower than the prior 382 BHP non-hybrid version.
@@derekmicah9395 when comparing, does the .2 second difference really matter?…. These are rocket ships!!! Weeeeee
@@Broker-in-Maine in real life the M40i is significantly faster. Less lag, more torque, and BMW underrates the power of its engines, this thing is 400 or more. The Q5 has a better sound system, better seats (you can't option merino on the BMW, and the seat shape isn't quite as good as the Audi) and the whole infotainment/dashboard/etc is better on the Audi too. It's also a bit missing the whole point of the M40i that they didn't drive these hard, because it's not just about 0-60, and the chassis, ability in cornering, coming out of a corner, staying composed, keeping grip, etc etc is significantly better for the BMW, whereas the Audi is more comfy.
Just an example I’m doing 2.4s 0-60 in my B9 SQ5…
DB test is pointless because you have speakers pumping engine sound into the cabin. Whats the point of measuring that unless youre in the least sporty mode?
The X3 M40i is the leader in this segment currently. The SQ5 is a great entry as well.
Performance???? I thought the Alfa was
@@rahimi4762 The Stelvio Quadrifoglio competes with the X3 M and the 2.0t Stelvio competes with the X3 xdrive30i, Alfa Romeo doesn’t have a mid tier performance suv to compete with the X3 M40i.
SQ5 is the best. Way better build quality and reliability.
@@DMCarReviews it’s not man. Driven both
What happened with the engines?
Of course X3 M40i ! No doubt!
Bro nice review, would be nice to also mention what kinda tire they come with eg. run-flats etc. I have 2020 M40i and I love it. The Audi is also very nice!
In 2018 I purchased a new SQ5 Prestige with air suspension and ventilated seats (not quilted). It is the best car I have owned and chose it over the X3 M40i because I found for city driving, the Audi was more forgiving. That said, I feel Audi ruined this car with the 2021 version for 1 reason - the UI is now touch screen and no more MMI knob. I really dislike touch-screen only because they are not responsive enough and definitely not safe at all. For this reason alone, I would opt for the BMW, which has retained the iDrive controller. Another option - AMG GLB 35 - yeah, it's a different class, but maybe worth a look.
The touch screen in the Q5 model I tested was perfect
The engine on the SQ5 although MY is 2022, it's an engine from 2018 which is dated compared to the one on the x3M40i. I wonder why Audi never came out with a better version for the 2022+ vehicles. I own a B9 S4 and it was made to compete against the F30 340i with the B58, but since then BMW came out with the G20 with a revised B58 and Audi just got stagnant. I really like Audi's interior better but out of the box performance it hasn't come out with anything new.
Love your videos can you do a 2022 Lexus GX 460
That's coming soon. They posted a Short with a 2022 GX460 Blackline Edition
Thanks! Stay tuned... Probably Tues or Wed
I have an X3 and so far be unable to figure out what the hill assist does in an auto transmission car ?
try reading the manual
the bmw sound way better !!, the driving dynamics are also just way better on the BWM
FYI the Audi SQ5 sport exhaust is a $1400 option, but is standard on the X3 M340i. The standard Audi SQ5 has fake exhaust tips😢
Audi's newer cars dont have a digital tire pressure gauge. -10. such an annoyance
Love the Audi
I have an SQ5 and love it but they need to catch back up performance-wise.
I just ran a 10.1s in the 1/4 mile on my Sq5. An X3M40I would never even come close to such numbers.
Not sure what you’re talking about.
@@Need4Built you're obviously very tuned. I'm running 4psi over stock while under warranty and while I love it, stock for stock Audi is way behind BMW in power. It's over a half second slower in the 1/4 vs the x3m40i, a full second slower to 60. Obviously I prefer the Audi for everything else about it otherwise I'd have the X3, but even the RS cars have to be modified to keep up with the M cars which, as a multiple time Audi owner, is disappointing.
@@oc0dyc
I’m guessing Audi has bad judgement when it comes to any aftermarket thought process. Their engines are able to make more than twice the power but come with barely any from the factory for some reason also.
Bmw seems to build (maybe less reliable) but more hp capable platforms and engines. Even stock. It almost seems like they actually put some thought into the aftermarket capabilities also. Interesting.
SQ5 all the way!
for q5, I think the real value is in the q5e rather than sq5. Cheaper insurance, lower running cost, actually more responsive because of the electric motor, and probably slightly less sporty than sq5, but I wouldn't say sq5 is super sporty anyway. I test drove both sq5 and q5e, and sq5 just had too much turbo lag for me. I think x3m40i is significantly better than sq5 if you want sporty.
Dynamic turn signals are really annoying tbh, very "fake" feeling, most aftermarket cheap lights for civics and corolas have that nowadays. I much more prefer BMWs lights, imo
The Audi exhaust is pointing out but the smokes are hitting the ground.?! Lol
Weird how both no longer have a Fog light option.
The big problem
Since when did Audi go to rear drive biased?
These are not crossovers. They are full compact SUVs
BMW is BMW !! All i have to say!!
Good contest.
Should have done the x5m or the SQ3 instead
I am partial to the BMW, while the Audi tends to have more kitch, it also is a softer more feminine car, no disrespect intended. The BMW is a more raw in your face driving machine, as BMW has always been. They both are great car manufacturers and fill their specific niches well.
Not sure about that. X3 is mostly a ladies car in my part of the country actually. Haven't seen a man in a X3 yet.
If you really need an fast SQ5.., you have to choose the SQ5 Plus 340hp 8R.., it's the fastest.., I have it and I do 0-100km/h in 4.7sec.., full stock..,
You GIVE 0.5 for dynamic turn signal? LOl and you didnt give point for BMWs rear exhaust compare to Audis fake.
Sold my 6 months old Q5 and bought the X3. Night and day, X3 is better in every way, except the sound system. B&O is better sounding than the HK
the fake exhaust on SQ5 was a deal-breaker for me. Oh and the SQ5 doesn't come with remote engine start
interesting... here in Switzerland the SQ5 starting price = 91'750.00 CHF (US dollar 103.582,54) how the hell is this possible dear Audi?????
Both have the same exact transmission
Three months of ownership for my '22 M40i and I look for an excuse to drive it. I came from a 2003 330Ci couple that I loved but this car is on a whole different level. BTW, the BMW does have leather seats as an option. I hear the Sensatec seats are nice but plastic is plastic.
BMW ❤️
I like the Audi looks but want the BMW power train and feel.
Audi looks nicer, but the BMW will wipe the floor with the Audi, I'd take the BMW! And I work at Audi.
Unless its an RS model the S models gives slightly more performance and power. BMWs have always been better performance wise... and I own an SQ5.
What are the most common issues of the newer audis?i ask you cuz you work on them
@@pavlosangeloudis2983 etrons been having software issues and also the lift gate went bad on a brand new one I sold. Had someone that bought brand new RS7 and it broke down on the highway with less than 500 miles. Moonroof issue on the Q3(leaks), Q7 with MMi issues just to name a few.
I’ve driven both…I bought the bmw
You wipe the floors at an Audi dealership?
BMW X3 40 i 👍🏻
The Audi still doesn’t offer remote start…correct? BMW does- if you live in a cold weather state, such as Wisconsin, who in the hell would purchase the Audi? Looks nice though!
remote start has been available for 40+ years. If the Audi doesn't offer it as factory, any competent dealer or 3rd party service shop can install remote start & have it integrated into the factory remote. We were doing this 20-25 years ago on just about any car, even manuals (they are a little more complicated & have a lock-out if left in gear..). The cheapest remote start's that I've seen are $50 + 50-60 for install & they can easily go up to $300+ (for the hardware) & $100-150+ for labor/install. These can get pretty complex with timing setups & programs/automation you can pre-program such as temp sensors & run times, so if it drops below 10degrees between 2-4PM the car might start up for any given amount of time to keep the inside warm - or whatever you want to do with it..
@@kde5fan737 Thanks for this response. The issue is we were told by Audi when we went to look at their new q5 that Audi doesn’t install remote start and if we had an after market remote start installed it would void the warranty. That makes Audi less appealing in a cold weather state. I have a Lexus RX and remote start came with my vehicle. Mercedes and BMW offers this as well. It’s a personal preference of mine to have it. At Audi’s price point- remote start should be an option.
@@michelleb8559 I totally agree with you on all but what the dealership told you about voiding the warranty. Dealers LIE all the time about things that will void the warranty. There was a (supreme court??) case you should look up - "moss-magnuson warranty act" which explicitly states what companies can and can't void warranties over & most of what companies say will void warranties IS ILLEGAL. This goes for things such as elecronics & computers all the way to cars.
You know those "warranty void if seal is broken" stickers on electronics? ILLEGAL. Also, telling a customer that chipping or tuning their car will void their warranty - ILLEGAL - unless they can PROVE that the modification is what caused the damage (which is pretty expensive proposition in most cases - more than the repair would cost in almost all cases except cars in the 6+ figure range...) But they scare a lot of people off by saying that (illegally I might add).
So if you really like the Audi & remote start is what is keeping you from choosing it, I would not let that be a deal breaker. There are some GREAT remote start systems out there that are much better thatn OEM systems & they can be seamlessly integrated into new cars & you will never know it didn't come as a factory option. My Volvo has it as an option & I have a 5 button remote that "doesn't have remote start" but I can still start it by using 2 buttons at once - or I can choose a button sequence to start it. Or I can buy the 6 button remote ($400) with the remote start button. The same can be done with the Q5/SQ5 from what I remember (I almost bought the SQ5 last November & have been wanting one for 3 years now - but I chose a Volvo for a few reasons...)
If you are really interested in the SQ5 & the remote start is the issue, I'll look into it and see what I can find and reply on this thread. I can promise you there are 1000's of people who have added it to their Q5 platform while it was under warranty & I'll see what they say.
I would take a look over that moss-magnuson warranty act to get an idea of what the ruling says b/c you will be shocked at how many times companies break the law voiding warranties - it can only help you in the future to know this!! Good luck!
I was told it does not offer remote start because they are made in Germany and it is illegal to have remote start there... not sure if that's actually true . but crazy they don't make it an option for cars coming to the US.