Second Generation Audi Q5 Sportback Launched

Audi’s Q5 started life as a compact, standard-shaped SUV in the late noughties, a good number of years before its Porsche Macan sibling was announced. The MLB platform was versatile - it was used on larger VAG cars like the Audi A7 and A8, which we reckon benefited the Q5 in terms of NVH and overall refinement.

The Sportback variant of the Q5 was introduced only in 2021, responding to demands of raised SUVs with sleeker, more coupe-like silhouettes. Even for a so-called sub-variant of the “regular” Q5, Audi gave freedom for some markets to dig deeper into the specs. China had a Q5L Sportback, and Europe received the torque-laden SQ5 Sportback.

With electrification in full swing, it comes as a refreshing palette cleanser for Audi to release non e-tron models, and in the global press kit, we’re glad to see a diesel-powered Audi Q5 Sportback TDI quattro 150 kW being offered. Not that it’ll arrive in Singapore (for obvious reasons), but variety certainly helps to regain excitement in this industry. So what does Audi have up its sleeves for this 2nd-gen Q5 Sportback? Let’s find out...

More streamlined, athletic look

The new Audi Q5 Sportback boasts a sleeker, more dynamic design, with a wide Singleframe grille and sharp, sculpted headlights. Vertical air curtains enhance its front end, while a prominent line flows from the rocker panel over the wheel arches to the rear bumper. A rising shoulder line connects the front and rear lights, supporting the roof’s gentle arch and sloping rear window.

User-friendly, sustainable cabin

High-quality materials complement the MMI panoramic and passenger displays. A “Softwrap” feature connects the doors, cockpit and centre console for a cozy feel. Sustainability is also central, with materials like Cascade upholstery and Dinamica microfibre made from recycled polyester.

48-volt mild hybrid-equipped

It’s built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) for vehicles with longitudinal combustion engines. Its 48-volt mild hybrid system (MHEV) allows it to perform limited electric-only manoeuvres and parking. A powertrain generator provides additional torque of up to 230Nm and 18kW (24PS), while the 48-volt system powers an electric air conditioning compressor, allowing the AC to operate fully even when the engine is off. Essentially it should feel like a smoother version of an internal combustion engine-powered vehicle, just like its smaller Q3 MHEV sibling.

Any word on local availability?

Not at the moment, but we know that all variants will be MHEV-equipped. We're aware that in Europe, they’ll come with 7-speed dual-clutch transmissions, and the entry-level 2.0 TFSI in front wheel drive configuration pushes 150kW and 340Nm. The top-end SQ5 Sportback will deliver 270kW and 550Nm. Given how brands here continue to fiddle with specs to suit COE categories, will we be seeing a “bargain basement” Cat A-friendly Q5 Sportback? Definitely a tough ask given its segment positioning, but we’re not entirely ruling it out!

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