With Audi, BMW and Mercedes, it has become common for almost every SUV to get an additional elegant variant with a lower roofline, i.e. a coupe version. Obviously, this pays off. That’s right after of the “standard” Q5 SUVAudi now launched the Q5 Sportback.
According to Audi, the new Q5 Sportback primarily targets customers in Europe, while, for example, the Q5 SUV is more popular in the North American market. Or, as they say in the marketing dictionary: “This derivative, with its progressive and dynamic silhouettes, attracts design-minded customers who, however, do not want to give up the advantages of an SUV.”
The length, width and wheelbase are identical to the Q5 SUV, while the Sportback is only a few millimeters lower. The second generation Q5 Sportback offers up to 515 liters of trunk volume, while the SQ5 Sportback has a capacity of up to 470 liters. When the rear seats are folded, the space increases to 1,415 liters, or 1,388 liters in the SQ5 Sportback. The Q5 Sportback can tow a trailer weighing up to 2,400 kilograms.
Compared to its predecessor, the design of the new Audi Q5 Sportback has been significantly modernized. The wide “singleframe” mask is located high, surrounded by functional vertical “Air Curtains” openings. Under the hood is a large air intake with sensors.
The rear of the Q5 Sportback has been stretched to the maximum to achieve a sloping roofline from the B-pillar. With the optional roof rail, the dynamic roof line gains a practical dimension. The diffuser is integrated into the raised bumpers, while the real exhaust ports are located below it. In the S model, the exhausts are double, round in shape with a new, sharper design.
The Audi Q5 Sportback is available in advanced and S line variants, while the SQ5 Sportback has a unique exterior design. The advanced equipment brings dynamic design elements with stylized accents, such as the mask in “scandium-gray” color and the contrasting lacquered surface in “tambora-gray”. The diffuser is matte black with texture, while the rear inserts are finished in “selenite-silver” shade.
The S line and S models have larger front intakes and a sportier diffuser. The mask is framed by a chrome molding in matt anthracite or silver, while aerodynamic elements in the shape of the letter L emphasize the sporty character. In the S model, additional vertical decorations in chrome finish enhance the visual effect. Second-generation OLED rear lights and a projection light on the rear spoiler contribute to safety.
The interior does not bring many surprises: the familiar Audi MMI wide screen and the additional screen for the front passenger are taken over from the Q5 SUV. Materials such as Kaskade fabric and Dinamica microfiber are made from recycled polyester.
Q5 Sportback, like the new A5, is based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), intended for vehicles with internal combustion engines. All models come with advanced MHEV plus technology at 48 volts. The system enables short-term electric maneuvering and parking, while the electric climate compressor works even when the engine is turned off.
In the European market, the Q5 Sportback will be available with three engines, including a 2.0 TFSI with 204 hp and 340 Nm of torque, as well as a 2.0 TDI with 204 hp and 400 Nm. The top of the range is the SQ5 Sportback with a 3.0 V6 TFSI engine that develops 367 hp and 550 Nm.
Orders for the new Q5 Sportback and SQ5 Sportback start in December 2024, with starting prices in Germany of €54,800 for the base model and €85,400 for the S version. On that market, the Sportback is 2,500 euros more expensive than the Q5 SUV and 1,250 euros more than the previous model.
Source: www.magazinauto.com
