First Look: 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback – Driving.com

Audi’s best – selling model in North America, the mid – size Q5 crossover, looks to refresh not only the mid – cycle for the 2021 model year, but also the new Sportback variant, such as the BMW X4. And Mercedes Benz GLC coupe.

Audi follows the same path it recently introduced E-tron Sportback And the Q3 Sportback, Q5 Sportback – which differs from the typical Q5 rear of the B-pillar – is characterized by its coupe-like roof with “dynamic lines, which appreciate not only expressive design and technological innovations, but also sportiness. Character and high everyday utility. “Based on sales of other Sportback models, Audi estimates that one-third of total Q5 sales will be Sportback.

Style-wise, the Sportback Q5 showcases the new design language, starting with a slimmer and wider “singleframe” grille, along with a longer side air index with sporty trapezoidal inserts. In profile, the shoulder line gives priority to the wheels. The greenhouse is low on the body and sloping to the rear side window. At 4.69 meters long, the Sportback Q5 is seven millimeters longer. The height and width are the same and its drag coefficient is lower at 0.30.

Audi has not released much details regarding the North American editions of the Sportback. However, from the information we know about the 2021 updates to the Q5, much applies to the Sportback.

All Q5s are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 13-horsepower boost and a 12-volt mild-hybrid electric system. The total output is now 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The available plug-in hybrid version is powered by a 2.0L engine as well as an electric motor between the engine and the transmission, producing a combined system output of 362 hp and 369 lb-ft. Torque. In both cases, the four-cylinder seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and Quattro hook up to all-wheel drive.

Audi also says it will build an SQ5 Sportback – a high-performance model that retains the 3.0L turbocharged V6 of the regular SQ5, with 349 hp and 369 lb.-ft. Torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Although the Sportback comes standard with a traditional steel suspension, it has an optional setup with controlled dampers, as well as the well-known adaptive air suspension, which adjusts the ride height to within 60 millimeters. Ground clearance can be increased up to 45mm when driving off-road and at highway speeds, the body is automatically lowered by 15mm for greater efficiency and better handling thanks to a lower center of gravity. Another feature of the air suspension is the ability to reduce the rear axle to 55mm, making it easier to load cargo area.

The luggage compartment has a volume of 510 liters (18.0 cubic feet), with the rear seats folded and loaded to the ceiling, increasing to 1,480 liters. The optional rear seat bench has a “plus”, which can be rotated laterally and has adjustable seat rear angles. It slides forward to increase cargo capacity to 60 liters.

Inside, the Sportback uses the same new technology as the updated Q5, Audi’s third-generation MIB3 infotainment system. When fully equipped, the on-board also has a display-based virtual cockpit plus 12.3-inch display and head-up display. Multi-function steering wheel plus allows safe operation of most functions and displays. The MMI Navigation Plus infotainment system is paired with a customizable home screen with a 10.1-inch touch display; Natural language voice control can be activated by pressing a button on the steering wheel or by saying “Hey Audi”.

The Q5 Sportback will be available anytime in the first half of 2021. Price has not yet been announced.

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