Suspension and Handling
The Macan S and SQ5 have completely different suspension setups. Also, thanks to the two-inch difference in wheel size, ride quality easily goes in favour of the Porsche. But, with that extra sidewall, I expected the Porsche to give a little more than the Audi in the corners. Boy, was I wrong.
The SQ5 provides a stiffer suspension setup but at the cost of handling and body roll. Diving into a corner, you are never fully confident in the Audi’s ability to make it to the other side. Body roll is a bit of an issue as the SQ5 chucks you around a bit.
In comparison, the Macan S is so incredibly well sorted. It truly is the Boxster/Cayman of SUVs and it shows. The ride is a perfect blend of stiffness for roadholding ability and luxury-sport smoothness. In the same corner, the Porsche eggs you on to push more, constantly reassuring you that accelerating through is the best course of action.
While other sections have been a case of splitting hairs between the testers, this category is a no-brainer and easily goes to the Porsche.
Value
At this point, I really thought Audi might take the Value equation, but then I realized all the newer features available in the Porsche that aren’t available on the Audi at all.
Also, this is the best way to get into a Porsche now, and while we typically avoid debating how much a badge is worth, having a Porsche in the driveway is a bit more impressive than an Audi.
Underneath it all, the Porsche feels better sorted from a drivability standpoint. Even if it isn’t a brute performer like the Audi, Porsche will remind you that power isn’t everything.
  2014 Audi SQ5 vs 2015 Porsche Macan S. Click image to enlarge |
Our testers come in at just over $3,000 apart. The Macan S with panoramic roof, 19-inch Turbo wheels, infotainment package, and premium package rings in at $65,665 with destination and A/C tax. Audi’s performance entry painted a brilliant Glacier White Metallic, with Aluminum/Black Beaufort Inlays, Bang & Olufsen Sound System, navigation package with parking system, and 21-inch five-double-spoke wheels will cost you $68,795 after freight and AC tax.
So, at least in this instance, you get a more refined, but performance oriented, SUV for a bit less.
The Verdict
When you start tallying it all up, it looks like a clear win for the Porsche. But, not so fast, both the SQ5 and Macan S have their audiences.
Personally, the Porsche is the winner for me, mostly down to its cornering performance and refinement. But, if you want something that’s more usable as a family hauler day-to-day, the Audi is actually going to be more useful.
For those with kids, the smart choice is the Audi because of space. But, those kids would rather be picked up in a Porsche. I know I’d love to be a Porsche kid.
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Manufacturer’s Website: Audi Canada Porsche Canada Photo Gallery: Crash Test Results: |
Pricing: 2015 Porsche Macan S
Base Price: $54,300
Options: $10,150 (Infotainment Package – $3,420; Premium Package – $3,380; Panoramic Roof System – $1,910; 19-inch Macan Turbo wheels – $1,440)
A/C Tax: $100
Destination Charge: $1,115
Price as Tested: $65,665
Pricing: 2014 Audi SQ5
Base Price: $59,600
Options: $7,100 (Navigation Package with Parking System – $3,200; Aluminum/Black Beaufort Inlays – $1,100; Bang & Olufsen Sound System – $1,000; 21-inch 5-Double Spoke Designed Wheels – $1,000)
A/C Tax: $100
Destination Charge: $1,995
Price as Tested: $68,795
Luxury Compact SUVs
August 28, 2014
