When there’s a trend as strong as SUV’s in the automotive world, manufacturers are committed to diversification. That means they’re taking advantage of the crossover fever by launching models in all sizes and colors. They even dare to bring new trends in design, with some lines that have hitherto characterized three-door coupés.
The Audi Q5 Sportback which we tested this week joins that movement and is much more expensive than the conventional one, starting at a price of 56,660 euros.
Even if it looks like something relatively recently in fashion, the BMW X6, considered the first SUV coupe, went on sale in 2008. Now the number of models that capitalize on this stylistic trend has emerged, even general brands. If we focus on Audi, it would all start with the Q8, its flagship SUV. It then unfolded its Q3 and launched the Sportback body, something that followed in the e-tron, Q5 and Q4 e-tron.
Audi Q5 Sportback 40 TDI Quattro Review
Exterior
If anyone chooses to “just” buy the Audi Q5 Sportback before the Q5, it will be clearly because you appreciate your design. On the front there are no obvious differences. The main role is taken by the great Singleframe grille with a specific grille for this version and remarkable dimensions. It is flanked by narrow headlights that feature LED technology as standard and can be supplemented with Matrix LED.
Depending on the chosen finish, the trim strips of the Audi Q5 Sportback can be finished in aluminum or black as is the case of the black line. The same applies to small roof racks or window frames. Alloy wheels are also at the customer’s choice, from 18 to 21 inches. As with a good crossover, the bottoms are protected by black plastic.
Already from the side view you could see the main feature, which is: the obvious collapse of the roof, which evokes the lines of the coupes. It ends in a double spoiler, one on the rear window and one on the tailgate, just below. The other protagonists behind the Q5 Sportback are the optional OLED taillights, in which we can choose up to three light signatures and change them in Dynamic mode. They are connected by a molding corresponding to the one in the lower part, in that kind of diffuser that hides the exhaust vents.
In fact, the dimensions are practically nailed between the Q5 and the Q5 Sportback. The one we tested is just 7mm longer than the previous model and stays in 4,689mm long. The width and height are almost the same, namely 1,893 mm wide and 1,660 mm high. The distance is also maintained to stay at 2,819mm. Although the shapes will affect the interior, as we will see below.
Inside
Inside the Audi Q5 Sportback there are no surprises and that is good news. We have a cabin full of quality and technology. There is no doubt about the first part, Audi is known for the good performance of its interiors and even more so in a model that is at the top of the range. The finishes are remarkable and the very good touch of the materials, emphasizing details such as the mixed trim, the padding of the dashboard or the metal inserts in some points. Upon request, we had requested that the Piano Black not be included in this area.
Of the driving position everything is familiar to us, as we have the brand’s signature multifunction steering wheel, which is used to operate the digital instruments behind it. The 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit It stands out for its advanced graphics and for its ease of use, being able to personalize the information we see at all times, alternating it with that of the main screen.
In the Audi Q5 Sportback we have the brand’s latest multimedia system, with MIB 3, which we control via the 10.1-inch touchscreen sticking out of the dashboard. The integration is not convincing, but the clarity of the menus or the full connectivity cannot be criticized. In fact we have Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, a notable advantage, in addition to the mobile wireless charging surface.
The ergonomics are important in this model and therefore the analog controls for air conditioning and the lower button panel for other functions are retained. They love details such as the loading area and the generous storage compartments in this model. The space available for the passengers of the front seats is very prominent, At no point is there a sense of claustrophobia.
And in the back seat will not be left behind. After mentioning those coupe shapes, you might think second row space has been sacrificed, but the truth is, entry is comfortable and once inside within the segment average. As you can see there is enough room for my legs and the height is not bad, although at the time it is slightly lower than the conventional Q5. As always happens, the width is reasonable due to a central square without shape, in which it is better to remove the armrest to transport two adults and the transmission tunnel.
Trunk
One of the downsides of the Audi Q5 Sportback, the biggest difference compared to the conventional model, it is none other than the trunk that has been reduced by 40 liters. It’s not anything drastic as it’s the 550 . exceeds at 510 litres and maintains some really useful shapes. It has advantages such as the electric gate, hooks or nets to distribute the load or lighting on this surface.
Optionally you can use a bench with longitudinal movement with which you can play by varying the space of the passenger compartment and trunk, as well as with the backs of the seats. On the other hand, we would always have the option to fold down the second row in three parts (40:20:40) giving us a flat surface up to 1,480 liters. Note that this example has no spare wheel, but the typical anti-puncture kit in the hole under the boot floor.
Equipment
In the section of equipment no surprises either. The Audi Q5 Sportback there are several lines to meet the needs of each customer. start with the finish Moving forward, which is already quite complete when mounting LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, MMI Navigation plus multimedia system with 10.1-inch screen, 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit, tri-zone climate control, parking sensors, Audi drive select or electric tailgate.
Above is the sports finish S line to give it a more dynamic image thanks to 19-inch wheels, a specific grille, chrome inserts or a sports diffuser. It also has Matrix LED headlights, with sports seats or headlining in black. The top of the range would be the black line carrying our unit, with 20-inch wheels, moldings and roof racks in black, S line interior package and mixed trim.
Optional there is various predefined packages to improve your ability. The City has driving aids focused on the city and the Tour on the road, both highly recommended. On the other hand, there is a long list of extras covering all areas and that will drive the price up.
Engine
The mechanical range of the Audi Q5 Sportback is quite complete and pays a lot of attention to electrification. The mechanics are linked to a 48-volt electrical system, achieving the ECO label thanks to micro-hybridization. starting with diesel, there are two versions available, both with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. The 35 TDI produces 163 hp, while the 40 TDI we have at home develops 204 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
On the other hand, a 45 TFSI petrol variant appears, also with an ECO label because it has a mild hybrid system 12V for backup. It has 265 horsepower and occupies an intermediate position within the range. Also available two plug-in hybrids, the 50 TFSIe with 299 hp and the 55 TFSIe with 367 hp. The SQ5 Sportback would be the top version because of its sportiness and is equipped with the 341 hp strong V6 diesel engine.
Behaviour
Already at the wheel of the Audi Q5 Sportback 40 TDI 204 CV quattro S tronic, the more powerful diesel version range, we begin to notice that this fuel is not as dead as they would have us believe. It is an engine that generally works very well and will satisfy users who: they travel long distances. The entry-level version with its 163 horsepower is probably somewhat reasonable given the size and weight of this SUV, so we believe the 204 horsepower is the most balanced.
Not only that, but has an exemplary drive. The 400 Nm is achieved between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm, making it a powerful car in the low. The accelerations are very good, in the technical data sheet there is a 0 to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, while the top speed is 222 km/h. The delivery is very linear, reaching the midpoint between softness and power.
All versions of the Audi Q5 Sportback are linked to the S-tronic automatic transmission, there are no manuals available. That’s not bad news, as the dual-clutch transmission pairs well with diesel mechanics. The transitions between gears are very quick and also quite smooth. Another important feature of this model is the four wheel drive, which is always a plus when we leave the asphalt like in bad weather conditions.
As usual in the models of the brand, it has different driving modes thanks to Audi drive select. It allows you to choose Offroad, Efficiency, Auto, Dynamic and Individual to slightly adjust some parameters, such as the direction, the throttle response or the gear itself. It’s not too noticeable, but it’s always useful. Changing the third, as the miles go by, the refinement underway which the Q5 Sportback has and the good sound insulation of its cabin.
A differential touch of the Audi Q5 Sportback is that the sport suspension is standard. Despite this, it maintains an enviable level of comfort, filtering well all the irregularities of the terrain. Optionally, the air suspension can be mounted, which has adaptive damping to achieve a more rounded behavior. In fact, it surprises with its agility, hide the 1,900 kg well what weighs It’s not a car, but it moves well for an SUV with a high center of gravity.
We completed the test of the Q5 Sportback 40 TDI and were clear about the path diesel takes for some users. Surprising data such as: autonomy greater than 900 kilometers when we caught him with a full tank. Gain efficiency thanks to the Mild Hybrid system and gives us a fairly good consumption. During the test week we have a on average around 7 liters, not too far from the approved numbers.
Almost half of the turnover of the Audi Q5 match this Sportback body and after testing it over the past week, we are not surprised. We are in a time when aesthetics are key and this movement has helped set itself apart. This copy has to do with rivals such as the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC Coupé, but has the advantage that be the last to leave and present important news.
At the design level it will be to everyone’s taste, but the one with the four rings is the most technologically advanced between his rivals. In addition, it has a very high quality and habitability that is not bad. The mechanical offering is balanced and the price is in line with what we see in the segment. It starts at 56,660 euros, although a well-equipped unit like the one we have can approach 70,000 euros.
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