The 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback is a luxury coupe-style crossover SUV that offers a sleeker alternative to the standard Q5 model. While it commands a higher price tag than the regular Q5, it sacrifices some practicality due to its coupe-inspired rear design, which reduces interior space.
Although some enthusiasts once hoped streamlined SUVs like this would be a passing trend, their massive global popularity has proven otherwise. This category has firmly established itself in the market, often overshadowing the demand for traditional sedans.
Highlights of the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback
The latest Audi Q5 Sportback enters the ring to compete with rivals like the Mercedes GLC Coupe and BMW X4. Interestingly, the BMW X4 is set to be discontinued, following the upscaling of its smaller sibling, the X2.
On a brighter note for enthusiasts, the 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback ditches the fake exhaust sounds that drew criticism in earlier models. Audi has taken customer feedback seriously, as seen in the improved sound design of the new S5, and has removed the artificial exhaust notes. Additionally, the SQ5 Sportback no longer features the diesel engine previously available in Europe.
Mechanical Specifications
The high-performance SQ5 Sportback is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged mild-hybrid engine, producing 362 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque—the same powertrain featured in the new S5. For the standard Q5 Sportback, two additional engine options are available:
- A 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine delivering 201 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque.
- A 2.0-liter 4-cylinder diesel engine also producing 201 horsepower but with 400 Nm of torque.
The base gasoline engine is paired with front-wheel drive as standard, with Quattro all-wheel drive offered as an option. Power for all engines is transferred through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Audi has also announced plans to introduce additional powertrains, including plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, although it remains unclear if an RS trim will join the lineup.
Practicality and Interior Features
As expected with Sportback models, the 2025 Q5 Sportback is less practical than its regular SUV counterpart. The sloping roofline reduces the cargo capacity to 1,415 liters (49.7 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded—58 liters less than the standard Q5. The design also makes it difficult to carry long items, as the roof and rear hatch glass limit usable space.
Despite its reduced practicality, the Sportback retains most of the design and features of the regular Q5, with only minor updates to the rear exterior. Inside, higher trims boast a luxurious triple-screen setup, including a dedicated display for the front passenger. The interior design closely mirrors that of the standard Q5 and the new A5.
The 2025 Q5 Sportback is built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), an updated version of the MLB Evo platform. Notably, Audi has decided to discontinue its two-door coupes and cabriolets, including the A5 coupe and cabriolet, due to declining demand. This move follows the end of production for the TT and R8 models.
Pricing
In line with expectations, the 2025 Audi Q5 Sportback carries a slightly higher price than the regular Q5. In Germany, it starts at €54,800 ($57,619), which is €150 ($157) more than the standard model. The performance-oriented SQ5 Sportback begins at €85,400 ($89,792), representing a €2,500 ($2,628) increase over the SQ5.
This stylish and modern SUV offers a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of luxury, technology, and sporty design, even if it comes at the cost of some practicality.
