New Audi Q5 Sportback Debuts: Blending Luxury, Performance, and Style

Audi has introduced the second-generation Q5 Sportback, a coupe-SUV variant of its popular Q5. This new model sacrifices some of the practicality of the standard Q5 in favor of a more dynamic, visually striking design with improved aerodynamics. The Q5 Sportback is targeted at buyers who prioritize aesthetics and driving experience over maximum utility.

The most noticeable change in the Sportback is its sloping roofline, which gracefully transitions into a redesigned rear. This coupe-inspired design brings a sharper rear glass incline and a more tapered shape, while still retaining the signature full-width taillights of the Q5, now available with digital OLED technology for enhanced visual appeal.

Sporty Design and Features

Both the S Line and performance-oriented SQ5 Sportback trims come with sportier design elements, including larger bumper intakes and bold rear diffusers. The S Line features matte Anthracite accents, while the SQ5 showcases matte Silver finishes. A quick way to distinguish the SQ5 is its quad round exhaust pipes.

For those needing extra cargo space, Audi offers optional roof rails on the Sportback, though the sloped roof does reduce trunk capacity slightly compared to the regular Q5. The Sportback offers 515 liters (18.2 cubic feet) of cargo space, expanding to 1,415 liters (50 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded — only 58 liters less than the standard Q5.

Inside, the Q5 Sportback mirrors the tech-rich interior of the standard Q5, featuring an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, and an optional 10.9-inch passenger display. Audi also emphasizes sustainability with the inclusion of recycled materials like Cascade fabric and Dinamica microfiber in the upholstery.

Mild-Hybrid Powertrains

The Q5 Sportback uses Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, shared with the Q5 and A5. Initially, it will be available in Europe with mild-hybrid gasoline and diesel powertrains, with additional options, including a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), expected later.

The base models come with either a 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine or a 2.0 TDI diesel engine, both producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS). The diesel engine offers superior torque, producing 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) compared to the gasoline engine’s 340 Nm (251 lb-ft). Both engines benefit from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, offering a 24 hp (18 kW / 24 PS) boost through a 1.7 kWh battery.

SQ5 Sportback Powertrain

The top-of-the-line SQ5 Sportback replaces the previous diesel engine with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine, aligning it with the U.S. model. This mild-hybrid powertrain generates 362 hp (270 kW / 367 PS) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque, sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Pricing, Availability, and Competition

The Q5 Sportback is set to begin deliveries in Europe by December 2024. In Germany, the base model starts at €54,800 ($57,500), while the SQ5 Sportback is priced at €85,400 ($89,620). Both trims carry a €2,500 ($2,600) premium over their regular Q5 counterparts.

In the U.S., Audi has confirmed that the Q5 Sportback will be available as a 2026 model, with pricing yet to be revealed. It will compete with other luxury coupe-SUVs like the BMW X4, Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, and Range Rover Velar.