Audi expands the growing coupe-inspired crossover segment, which we refer to as the coupe on the roadshow. Late on Friday, Audi presented its new Q5 Sportback, a versatile commercial vehicle with an extra dose of style.
The biggest change between this model and the standard Q5 is obviously this roofline. The upper part of the Sportback version slopes gently backwards, with the rearmost side windows tapering sharply at the rear. This modification gives the vehicle a dramatic profile. Likewise, the backlight is heavily raked to match the lid's downward angle.
In front this new variant of the Q5 features a well-known octagonal single frame grill that is filled with a unique rhomboid texture. Of course, expect minor exterior changes to the front air intakes and bumpers based on the trim level and option packages. Audi offers drivers a wide selection and offers 12 different paint colors for the Sportback as well as a whole range of different wheel designs from 18 to 21 inches. Digital at the rear of the vehicle OLED taillights are an option and should offer some interesting features. Each lamp contains three OLED panels, which consist of six illuminable segments that can be controlled individually. This allows the driver to change the lighting signature or even warn other drivers of dangers. For example, if another driver is within 6.5 feet of the rear bumper, the vehicle can flash its taillights. This is a more proactive message than a pair of Yosemite Sam mud flaps.
The Q5 Sportback is 7 millimeters longer than its sibling, although the overall height and width of the machine are the same. As for aerodynamic efficiency, this is the Sportback The model is a little more slippery with a drag coefficient of 0.30.
But what about baggage capacity? Well, the Q5 Sportback seems pretty versatile despite that fashionable roofline. It offers 18 cubic feet of luggage space behind the second row seat. However, the optional Rear Seat Plus, which slides and offers an adjustable backrest, can be moved forward to add an additional 2.1 cubes to the luggage compartment for a total of 20.1. Fold the backrest down and the Q5 Sportback gives you 52.3 cubic feet of trash space. With optional roof rails you can transport even more material. This Audi makes loading the load a little easier and is equipped with an electric tailgate as standard. However, for extra money, you can open it with a foot shaft.
Q5 Sportbacks are supplied with a stiffer sport chassis as standard, which makes them crisper and more responsive than the regular Q5. Adjustable dampers are also available, as is an air suspension system that offers a total adjustment range of 2.4 inches. This enables the Sportback to increase ground clearance by up to 1.8 inches for better off-road capability, although trying the Rubicon Trail in either of these areas is probably still not advisable. Like other air-suspension crossovers, this Audi can lower its body at speed for improved aerodynamics, and you can lower the rear of the vehicle at the push of a button in the cargo area for easier loading and unloading of cumbersome cargo.
A dynamic steering system is also offered. This adapts the steering ratio and the power assistance of the Q5 Sportback to the driving conditions. Basically, it makes the tiller faster and lighter at low speeds for improved maneuverability and slower and heavier on the highway for better stability.
American drivers have two powertrain options: a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque in the standard model, and a 3.0-liter V6 that puts out 349 horsepower and 369 pound-feet in the high-performance SQ5. If these engines sound familiar, they should. The automaker is offering the same in the 2021 Q5.
The Q5 Sportback will be launched in Europe with a 2.0 liter turbodiesel engine developing 201 hp and 295 lb-ft. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro Ultra all-wheel drive are just as much a part of the drivetrain as a mild hybrid system with a small lithium-ion battery that can recover energy when braking to improve vehicle efficiency. With a double dose selective catalyst reduction system, this diesel engine should meet the latest European emission standards. Once launched, a number of other engines will be offered in this Sportback, including gasoline, diesel and even a plug-in hybrid.
Unsurprisingly, there is nothing shocking to say about the vehicle's interior. The automaker's MIB 3 infotainment system is proudly on display. The always useful Audi virtual cockpit is available, while the MMI infotainment system with navigation is displayed on a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Like its German luxury competitors, the Q5 Sportback's multimedia array reacts to voice commands, in this case "Hey, Audi". For extra money, you can also opt for a premium 3D sound system from Bang & Olufsen. This coupe comes with Audi Pre Sense City as standard to avoid or reduce the severity of collisions at low speeds. Functions such as turning assistance, evasive assistance, cross traffic assistance and exit warning systems are offered.
The 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback should be available in various international markets in the first half of next year. The vehicle will be built in Mexico, although copies sold in China are assembled from complete knock-down kits at Audi's Changchun plant. What about the pricing? Well you guessed it. That's not available yet, so stay tuned.