
The second-generation Audi Q5 Sportback has been unveiled. In typical Audi fashion, changes appear minimal, with more defined lines as the giveaway.
The sculpted headlights merge cleanly with the Singleframe grille, with the topmost portion given a softer curve. Above the rocker panel, a carved line progressing upward from the front-wheel arch aims to give the car a forceful look even at rest. The rear section of the shoulder line elevates to the top of the rear-door handles, highlighting the sloping roofline (from the B-pillar) and the rear window. It also makes the car look wider from a quarter angle.
The rear, meanwhile, has a cleaner execution. A light strip runs across an uninterrupted surface. Along with a sharp edge also running across, these elements emphasize the Q5 Sportback’s width.



Inside, the new Audi design philosophy is embodied. The MMI panoramic display and the MMI passenger display communicate a high-tech feel. The Softwrap stretches from the doors through the dashboard to the center console, giving occupants a surrounded feeling of space.
What’s more, the interior materials are sustainable, which are made from recycled polyester.

There are two versions of the Q5 Sportback: Exterior Advanced and S Line. There’s also the SQ5 Sportback.
The Q5 Sportback has a luggage capacity of up to 515L, while the SQ5 Sportback has up to 470L. With the rear seats folded down, it increases up to 1,415L in the Q5 Sportback, and 1,388L in the SQ5 Sportback.
The Q5 Sportback is the next model based on the Premium Platform Combustion, Audi’s platform developed for cars with internal-combustion engines. It comes initially with MHEV-plus technology, a new 48V battery that aids the engine and reduces emissions while increasing performance.


The new powertrain generator creates additional torque of up to 230Nm and additional power of 24hp. Furthermore, the 48V battery allows the use of an electric air-condition compressor, making sure the A/C continues operating at full capacity even when the engine is switched off during coasting or at a stoplight.
The lithium-ion battery for Q5 Sportbacks featuring MHEV-plus is based on lithium ferro-phosphate chemistry, and has a storage capacity of 1.7kWh. The belt-alternator starter is used as a motor to start the engine and supply current to the battery. The BAS allows a range of electric driving and relieves the engine, thus improving fuel economy. It also returns energy to the battery during braking with up to 25kW of power. Down the line, the Q5 Sportback plug-in hybrids will be available with a large battery and an external charger.
In Europe, the Q5 Sportback lineup will be available with three engines at launch, coupled to the S-Tronic seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The base engine is the 2.0 TFSI with an output of 201hp and 340Nm through the front wheels. Quattro all-wheel drive is available as an option. It also comes with the 2.0 TDI (EA288 Evo), delivering 201hp and 400Nm with Quattro drive. The SQ5 Sportback, meanwhile, is powered by the 3.0 V6 TFSI with 362hp and 550Nm.
The range will be available in Europe toward the end of the year. No specific schedule just yet as to when it will reach our market.
Comments