Audi will finally launch a rival to the BMW X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe with the first-ever Q5 Sportback.

Based on the same platform as the regular Q5, which has been facelifted for the 2021MY, it is pretty much the same save for the redesigned rear end and more arched roofline behind the B pillars.

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We have already seen several prototypes out in the open that looked ready for production, hence our assumption that it could premiere before the year’s end. Nevertheless, these are no leaked images, but illustrations made by Kolesa, which are based on the latest iteration Q5 and follow the same styling, albeit with the aforementioned changes.

2021 Audi Q5 Sportback rendering by Kolesa

The production model will sport a different grille pattern, new taillight graphics, black trim in the rear bumper, cleaner-looking diffuser and hidden tailpipes, as previous spy shots have revealed. Other than that, everything else should mirror the Q5, including the interior design, trims, options and so on.

Sitting at the top of the range will, in all likelihood, be the SQ5 Sportback, which has been confirmed to retain the 3.0-liter TFSI V6 gasoline engine in the regular Q5, with 349 HP (354 PS / 260 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. Europe might also add the 3.0-liter V6 TDI mild-hybrid diesel that pumps out 342 HP (347 PS / 255 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) in the current variant of the SQ5. Finally, the rest of the engine family will mirror that of the Q5.

Note: These are independent renderings made by Kolesa that are in no way related to or endorsed by Audi