Audi Just Won’t Stop Adding Crossovers, Next Up, The 2021 Q5 Sportback

Audi believes there is definitely enough room in their growing high-riding vehicle portfolio for yet another model and in particular, the Q5 Sportback.

It’s a sporty-looking version of the recently unveiled 2021 Q5, with a more arched roofline behind the B pillars that inevitably eats into the rear headroom. Cargo capacity will be smaller as well, but beyond that, expect pretty much the same car at a slightly more premium price.

The front end of the prototype spotted by our spy photographers in Germany adopts a different grille pattern compared to the regular Q5 paired to a restyled bumper. The headlamps seem to carry over, but at the opposite end, the taillights have different graphics. The test car also featured black trim in the rear bumper and hidden tailpipes.

In all likelihood, the interior will mimic the looks of the facelifted Q5, with a freestanding infotainment system and Audi’s virtual cockpit digital gauges next to it. Smartphone interface will be offered as standard while to better draw the imaginary line between the two, the company could launch it with different trims.

Most (if not all) of the engine lineup will come from the 2021 Q5, and this should include the 55 TFSI e quattro variant, a plug-in hybrid that combines the 2.0-liter four-pot with an electric motor that develop a combined 362 HP and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. An SQ5 Sportback version is also on the menu, with a 349 HP and 369 Nm (500 Nm) 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine.

We will know more about the first-ever BMW X4 and Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe fighter from Audi in a few months, as it could premiere before the end of 2020.