Audi Q5 Sportback

ONLY a few months after the launch of the all-new and critically important Audi Q5, we're behind the wheel of its more streamlined Sportback sibling.

- Jordan Katsianis

Although the Mk1 Sportback arrived well after the SUV's launch, this time the two have been designed and engineered in unison.

This is obvious with the new car's svelte roofline, which seems more at one with the overall design. It's not often that a coupé-SUV looks particularly resolved, but Audi has done a great job here, despite the somewhat gawky forms at the front.

You'll be able to specify a Q5 Sportback in the UK with one of three engine choices to begin with, made up from the four-cylinder diesel we're driving here, a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and top-spec SQ5 with a turbocharged petrol V6. There's no longer any large-capacity V6 diesel as we saw last time around, but there will soon be a plug-in hybrid model to round out the powertrain options.

Beyond that lowered roofline, and the very slight benefit to the centre of gravity that comes with it, the Q5's chassis and interior are identical between the bodystyles. All versions have quattro all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the SQ5 and diesel Q5 feature a 48V mild-hybrid system. This powers the wheels at parking speeds and facilitates extended start-stop functionality. The e-motors also help the engine out at low rpm, giving the car a touch more pep.

Out test car had a few added goodies, including adaptive air suspension and 20-inch wheels, and this combination does a pretty good job of isolating bumps, riding with a comfortable yet still connected feeling as Audi does so well right now.