Audi Q5 Sportback: testing the new generation of the hybrid suv-coupé

Then, the offering shifts to the plug-in powertrains of the e-hybrid quattro, a name that identifies these variants that will arrive in the coming months. They are powered by systems with 299 and 367 horsepower consisting of a 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a Miller cycle to benefit combustion, which regardless of engine speed reduces consumption and emissions, and an electric unit housed in the dual-clutch gearbox, also with seven gears. It utilises a 25.9 kWh high energy density cell-to-pack battery pack that promises zero-emission autonomies of up to 105 kilometres while also allowing speeds of up to 140 per hour. The battery can only be fully recharged with alternating current systems of up to 11 kW in two and a half hours, but these Q5s also offer the Battery Charge function to regenerate it while on the move until the 75 per cent threshold is reached. As standard, they all have progressive steering, while as an option there is adaptive air suspension with individual management of each shock absorber that allows up to 60 mm of ground clearance. A possibility that optimises off-road driving along with two off-road modes, which are added to the car configurations.

Audi Q5 Sportback, sporty styling that benefits efficiency 

The new architecture has also inspired the look of the second generation Q5 Sportback, which is characterised by the momentum imparted to the silhouette by the sloping roof, the muscular stylistic features and the proportions that make for a balanced appearance. Overall, the line integrates unchanged the lower traits of the other Q5 of which the Sportback also retains the length of 4.72 metres, the width of 1.90 metres, the height of 1.64 metres and the wheelbase of 2.82 metres, proving, however, to be more aerodynamic than the previous Sportback, as confirmed by the Cd of 0.30. A value that obviously makes a positive impact on the overall efficiency of the suv-coupé.

Audi Q5 Sportback, spacious and hi-tech interior.

Contrary to what the profile of the bodywork may inspire, the Sportback's cabin offers the same amount of space as that of the classic Q5 even in the rear area of the passenger compartment. The radical evolution of this model can also be clearly felt on the inside. The ambience, identical to that of the other Q5, is refined, well cared for and opting for the display in front of the passenger, offers a dashboard that is a veritable digital stage with Oled screens that basically consists of a combination of the configurable 11.9" cockpit (to which a large head-up display can also be added) and the 14.5" infotainment display. The digitisation is based on the Android Automotive OS and five platforms that quickly control all the car's functions. For example, from Adas to Ota updates, from ChatGpt that interacts with the voice assistant to the management of the Oled rear light clusters that raise the Car-to-X function, transforming the rear lights into a display that sends alerts to followers when needed. In terms of loading possibilities, the boot has a capacity ranging from 515 to 1,415 litres in the case of the mild hybrid Sportback, but drops a little in that of the SQ5 and e-hybrid.

Audi Q5 Sportback, how's the 2.0 TDI quattro mild hybrid 

Capable of reaching 226 km/h and 100 km/h in 7"4 with an average consumption of 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the 2.0 Tdi offers instinctive driveability even in bends and high comfort on and off-road, especially with adaptive air suspension. The drivability is supported not only by the reliable dynamism and handling imparted by the trim and steering settings, but also by the performance of the powertrain, which together with the 204 horsepower delivers a torque of 400 Nm between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm. In fact, the turbodiesel offers a promptly smooth delivery and, when necessary, alternates its remarkable elasticity with a brilliant temperament, making its 'voice' heard only when the accelerator is firmly depressed to reach the highest revs.

Audi Q5 Sportback, equipment, versions and prices 

For the mild hybrid 48 V 2.0 Tfsi two- and four-wheel drive and 2.0 Tdi quattro versions of the Q5 coupe, there are Business Advanced and S line editions. Their prices start at 69,000 euros in the case of the petrol variants and 73,000 in that of the turbodiesel. On the other hand, the Sq5, whose price list starts at 93,000 euros, can also be chosen in the Sport Attitude trim, which shifts the price to 103,000 euros. The list for the e-hybrid versions that can already be ordered starts at €75,000.